Activity Overview
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will 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. They 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.
Characters in The Breadwinner
- Parvana
- Father
- Mother
- Nooria
- Mrs. Weera
- Shauzia
- Ali
- Maryam
- Hossain
- Homa
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 characters in The Breadwinner.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in The Breadwinner 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 the character's 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 other characters?", 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
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will 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. They 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.
Characters in The Breadwinner
- Parvana
- Father
- Mother
- Nooria
- Mrs. Weera
- Shauzia
- Ali
- Maryam
- Hossain
- Homa
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 characters in The Breadwinner.
Student Instructions:
- Identify the main and supporting characters in The Breadwinner 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 the character's 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 other characters?", 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 The Breadwinner Characters
How to facilitate a collaborative character map discussion in your classroom
Engage students in a collaborative character map discussion to deepen understanding and encourage active participation among all learners.
Organize students into small groups with mixed abilities
Mix students of different strengths together so everyone can contribute and learn from one another. Collaboration builds confidence and insights!
Assign each group a different character from The Breadwinner
Distribute characters so each group focuses deeply and becomes the 'expert' on their assigned character. Ownership increases engagement.
Guide groups to fill out a character map collaboratively
Encourage students to discuss and complete all character map sections—traits, relationships, and challenges—by sharing ideas, supporting each other, and using evidence from the text. Teamwork leads to richer analysis!
Facilitate a whole-class share-out and reflection
Invite each group to present their character map to the class, then lead a discussion comparing characters and connecting their experiences to the story’s themes. Reflection helps students synthesize learning and build empathy.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Breadwinner Characters
What is a character map for The Breadwinner and how can students use it?
A character map for The Breadwinner is a visual organizer that helps students track and analyze the main and supporting characters, noting their physical traits, character attributes, relationships, and challenges. Students can use it while reading or after finishing the book to deepen understanding and support discussions or assignments.
How do I create a character map for The Breadwinner in my classroom?
To create a character map for The Breadwinner, have students list the main and minor characters, assign images or icons, choose colors and poses to match traits, and fill out sections on physical/character traits, relationships, and challenges faced. Tools like Storyboard That are helpful for this activity.
Which characters should be included in a Breadwinner character map?
Your character map should include Parvana, Father, Mother, Nooria, Mrs. Weera, Shauzia, Ali, Maryam, Hossain, and Homa. These are key figures whose traits and interactions drive the plot of The Breadwinner.
What are the benefits of using character maps in middle school literature lessons?
Using character maps helps middle school students improve comprehension, visualize relationships, and analyze character development. They also support critical thinking and make it easier to discuss or write about the story's events and themes.
What challenges do characters face in The Breadwinner?
Characters in The Breadwinner face challenges such as living under Taliban rule, loss of freedom, family separation, and the need for survival. These obstacles shape their actions and growth throughout the story.
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