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!
The Cay Characters
- Phillip Enright
- Timothy
- Stew Cat
- Mrs. Enright
- Mr. Enright
- Henrik van Boven
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 Cay 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 Character Description, Is He/She a Round or Flat Character, How Do His/Her Actions Affect the Main Character, and What is the Main Character's Attitude Toward This Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
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!
The Cay Characters
- Phillip Enright
- Timothy
- Stew Cat
- Mrs. Enright
- Mr. Enright
- Henrik van Boven
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 Cay 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 Character Description, Is He/She a Round or Flat Character, How Do His/Her Actions Affect the Main Character, and What is the Main Character's Attitude Toward This Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about The Cay Characters
How to facilitate meaningful character discussions in your classroom
Encourage students to share their insights by organizing small group or whole-class discussions focused on the characters. Ask open-ended questions like, "What motivates Phillip's choices?" or "How does Timothy support Phillip?" This promotes critical thinking and helps students connect with the story more deeply.
Assign student roles for each character
Have students take on the persona of a character from the novel during discussions or activities. This immerses learners in the story and encourages them to consider different perspectives, making character traits and motivations more memorable.
Use evidence from the text to support opinions
Prompt students to back up their ideas about characters with direct quotes or specific events from the book. Model how to cite the text and explain why using evidence strengthens their arguments. This builds analytical skills and supports literacy standards.
Integrate visual aids to enhance understanding
Encourage students to create drawings, diagrams, or digital graphics that represent character relationships and development. Visual tools can help students organize information and see connections between characters at a glance.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Cay Characters
What is a character map for The Cay and why should I use one in my classroom?
A character map for The Cay is a visual tool that helps students track important traits, actions, and relationships of the novel’s main characters. Using one in your classroom enables students to better understand character development, recall key details, and engage more deeply with the text.
How do I create a character map for The Cay with my students?
To create a character map for The Cay, have students identify major characters, choose images or symbols to represent them, and fill out sections for descriptions, character types, actions, and relationships. This can be done individually, in pairs, or groups, using paper or digital tools.
Which characters should be included in a The Cay character map?
Key characters to include are Phillip Enright, Timothy, Stew Cat, Mrs. Enright, Mr. Enright, and Henrik van Boven. These figures are central to the story’s development and are often referenced in class discussions.
What information should students record for each character in The Cay?
Students should note each character’s description, whether they are a round or flat character, how their actions impact Phillip (the main character), and Phillip’s attitude toward them. Recording these details helps with comprehension and literary analysis.
What are the benefits of using character mapping activities for middle school novels like The Cay?
Character mapping activities boost reading comprehension, help students track character changes, and encourage attention to detail. For middle schoolers, this strategy also supports critical thinking and engagement with complex texts like The Cay.
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