Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in The Catcher in the Rye. Because this novel is very much a stream-of-consciousness narrative, have students include characters’ traits, how Holden feels about them/reacts to them, and a quote for support!
Holden Caulfield:
- Traits: 16 years old; flunks out of 4th prep school; seems depressed; thinks everyone around him is a phony; wears a red hunting hat; only happy around innocence of children
- How Holden feels about himself: Holden is often depressed and feels lousy. He is always looking for others to blame, but sometimes, his own insecurity can’t be blamed on anyone else. He is afraid of change.
- Quote: “Certain things should stay the way they are. You ought to be able to stick them in one of those big glass cases and just leave them alone.”
Other characters included in this map are: Stradlater, Phoebe, Allie, Jane Gallagher, Sally Hayes, Mr. Antolini
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in The Catcher in the Rye and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Traits, How Holden Feels about Him/Her, and Quote.
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
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log (also called a character map) allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. When reading a novel, small attributes and details frequently become important as the plot progresses. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in The Catcher in the Rye. Because this novel is very much a stream-of-consciousness narrative, have students include characters’ traits, how Holden feels about them/reacts to them, and a quote for support!
Holden Caulfield:
- Traits: 16 years old; flunks out of 4th prep school; seems depressed; thinks everyone around him is a phony; wears a red hunting hat; only happy around innocence of children
- How Holden feels about himself: Holden is often depressed and feels lousy. He is always looking for others to blame, but sometimes, his own insecurity can’t be blamed on anyone else. He is afraid of change.
- Quote: “Certain things should stay the way they are. You ought to be able to stick them in one of those big glass cases and just leave them alone.”
Other characters included in this map are: Stradlater, Phoebe, Allie, Jane Gallagher, Sally Hayes, Mr. Antolini
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a character map for the major characters.
- Identify the major characters in The Catcher in the Rye and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character to represent each of the literary characters.
- Select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Choose a scene or background that makes sense for the character.
- Fill in the text boxes for Traits, How Holden Feels about Him/Her, and Quote.
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 Catcher in the Rye Character Map
Incorporate character mapping into a group discussion
Boost student engagement by using character maps as a collaborative tool during class discussions. Encourage small groups to compare their maps, debate character motivations, and share insights.
Assign each group a different character to analyze
Divide students into groups and assign each one a key character from the novel. Have groups focus on gathering traits, key quotes, and Holden’s perspective for their assigned character, deepening expertise.
Facilitate a jigsaw activity to share findings
Reorganize groups so that each new group has a representative for each character. Students teach one another about their assigned character, broadening everyone’s understanding.
Use character maps to spark evidence-based debates
Challenge students to use their character maps as evidence in debates about character motives or decisions. Encourage citing quotes and character traits to back up their arguments.
Wrap up with a reflective writing prompt
Ask students to reflect on how their understanding of a character changed after group discussion. Have them write a brief response using insights gained from their peers and their maps.
Frequently Asked Questions about Catcher in the Rye Character Map
What is a character map for The Catcher in the Rye?
A character map for The Catcher in the Rye is a graphic organizer that helps students track important characters, their traits, relationships, and key quotes. It aids comprehension and captures details that develop throughout the novel.
How can I use a character map to teach The Catcher in the Rye in high school?
Teachers can use a character map by having students identify major characters, list their traits, note Holden's feelings toward them, and include supporting quotes. This interactive tool supports engagement and deeper understanding during class discussions.
What are the main characters to include in a Catcher in the Rye character map?
Main characters to include are Holden Caulfield, Phoebe, Allie, Stradlater, Jane Gallagher, Sally Hayes, and Mr. Antolini. Each plays a significant role in Holden’s story and development.
What details should students record for each character in a character map?
Students should record traits, how Holden feels about each character, and a supporting quote from the novel. Visual cues like colors, scenes, or poses can further reinforce understanding.
Why is character mapping useful when reading The Catcher in the Rye?
Character mapping helps students remember details, understand character relationships, and follow the stream-of-consciousness narrative. It makes it easier to spot subtle changes and interpret Holden’s evolving viewpoints.
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