Activity Overview
The Book Thief has several important characters who grow and change throughout the story. In this activity, students can create a character map of the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in The Book Thief.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the major characters in The Book Thief and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to the story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the main character?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
Activity Overview
The Book Thief has several important characters who grow and change throughout the story. In this activity, students can create a character map of the characters in the story, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in The Book Thief.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the major characters in The Book Thief and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to the story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in Textables for "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character interact with the main character?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character Picture & Scene | The characters and scenes are both appropriate for the book's characters. | Many of the characters and scenes match the book's characters. | More than half of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. |
| Accuracy of Notes | Most of the information of the notes is correct. | Many of the notes have correct information, but some are incorrect or missing. | Less than half of the information of the notes is correct and relevant. |
| Effort | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. |
How Tos about Mapping Characters in The Book Thief
How to guide students in making connections between characters’ traits and their actions
Encourage students to match traits with specific actions or decisions characters make in the story. This helps deepen understanding of how personality influences behavior and plot development.
Model analyzing a character’s motivation using textual evidence
Demonstrate how to find quotes or passages that reveal why a character acts a certain way. Share examples and guide students to use these details in their character maps.
Facilitate peer discussion about character development
Organize small groups for students to discuss how characters change over the course of the story. Prompt them with questions like, “How has this character grown?”
Support students in comparing major and minor characters
Instruct students to identify similarities and differences between the main and supporting characters. This builds analytical skills and strengthens connections to the text.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in The Book Thief
How do I create a character map for The Book Thief?
To create a character map for The Book Thief, list the major characters, assign visual representations, select appropriate colors and scenes, and fill in details about their traits, challenges, and relationships to the protagonist.
What are the key character traits to include in a character map for The Book Thief?
Include physical attributes, personality traits, the challenges each character faces, how they interact with the main character, and their importance to the plot in your character map.
Why is mapping characters helpful when teaching The Book Thief?
Character mapping helps students understand character development, relationships, and plot structure, making it easier to analyze themes and the impact of each character in The Book Thief.
What activity can I use for students to analyze characters in The Book Thief?
Assign a character map activity where students identify major characters, use visuals, and describe traits, challenges, and interactions with the main character for deeper analysis.
What are some tips for making an effective character map using Storyboard That?
Choose distinct characters and backgrounds, use colors and poses that reflect personalities, and fill in text boxes with concise, insightful notes about each character’s traits and challenges.
More Storyboard That Activities
Book Thief, The
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