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!
For this more advanced character map, try using “OSCAR” so students can analyze multiple aspects of a character.
| DEFINITION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| O |
Other Character's Comments
What do other characters say about the character? |
"She ugly. He say. But she ain't no stranger to hard work. And she clean... Fact is, he say, I got to git rid of her. She too old to be living here at home. And she a bad influence on my other girls." - Pa |
| S |
Speech
What does the character say about others or themselves? How can we infer meaning and traits from what a character says? |
"I feel bad sometime Nettie done pass me in learnin. But look like nothing she say can git in my brain and stay. She try to tell me something bout the ground not being flat. I just say, Yeah, like I know it. I never tell her how flat it look to me." |
| C | Physical Characteristics
What does the character look like? What descriptive words are used to describe them? |
Skinny, plain, not very pretty |
| A | Author's Attitude
How does the author feel about this character? |
The author paints Celie as self-conscious and unsure of herself. Celie thinks she might deserve better, but doesn't know how to believe it until Shug comes along. |
| R | Reader's Reaction
How do you, as the reader, feel about the character? |
Celie is sweet and kind and selfless, but the men in her life treat her like trash. Even the children treat Celie like she doesn't deserve love. It's infuriating and sad. |
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 using OSCAR.
- Identify the major characters in The Color Purple and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That 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 OSCAR: Other Character's Comments, Character's Speech, Physical Characteristics, Author's Attitude, and Reader's Reaction.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Characterization quotes | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 3 or more quotes that exemplify direct characterization. The student also had them correctly labeled next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find find a few examples of direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. |
| Indirect Characterization quotes | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 3 or more quotes that exemplify indirect characterization. The student also had them correctly labeled next to the corresponding letter. For extra credit the student explained the significance of their examples and inferred meaning. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify indirect characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. |
| Use of characters and imagery | Student completed the storyboard using characters that match their full description. Careful thought and consideration was used in all details including physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. | Student completed the storyboard using characters that somewhat match the full description. Thought and consideration was used in details including physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. | Student completed the storyboard using characters that did not match the full description. Thought and consideration was not used in choosing details such as physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. |
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!
For this more advanced character map, try using “OSCAR” so students can analyze multiple aspects of a character.
| DEFINITION | EXAMPLE | |
|---|---|---|
| O |
Other Character's Comments
What do other characters say about the character? |
"She ugly. He say. But she ain't no stranger to hard work. And she clean... Fact is, he say, I got to git rid of her. She too old to be living here at home. And she a bad influence on my other girls." - Pa |
| S |
Speech
What does the character say about others or themselves? How can we infer meaning and traits from what a character says? |
"I feel bad sometime Nettie done pass me in learnin. But look like nothing she say can git in my brain and stay. She try to tell me something bout the ground not being flat. I just say, Yeah, like I know it. I never tell her how flat it look to me." |
| C | Physical Characteristics
What does the character look like? What descriptive words are used to describe them? |
Skinny, plain, not very pretty |
| A | Author's Attitude
How does the author feel about this character? |
The author paints Celie as self-conscious and unsure of herself. Celie thinks she might deserve better, but doesn't know how to believe it until Shug comes along. |
| R | Reader's Reaction
How do you, as the reader, feel about the character? |
Celie is sweet and kind and selfless, but the men in her life treat her like trash. Even the children treat Celie like she doesn't deserve love. It's infuriating and sad. |
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 using OSCAR.
- Identify the major characters in The Color Purple and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That 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 OSCAR: Other Character's Comments, Character's Speech, Physical Characteristics, Author's Attitude, and Reader's Reaction.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Characterization quotes | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 3 or more quotes that exemplify direct characterization. The student also had them correctly labeled next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find find a few examples of direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. |
| Indirect Characterization quotes | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 3 or more quotes that exemplify indirect characterization. The student also had them correctly labeled next to the corresponding letter. For extra credit the student explained the significance of their examples and inferred meaning. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify indirect characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. | Using the acronym OSCAR the student was able to find 1 or 2 quotes that exemplify direct characterization. Some error may have occurred when labeling the quotes next to the corresponding letter. |
| Use of characters and imagery | Student completed the storyboard using characters that match their full description. Careful thought and consideration was used in all details including physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. | Student completed the storyboard using characters that somewhat match the full description. Thought and consideration was used in details including physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. | Student completed the storyboard using characters that did not match the full description. Thought and consideration was not used in choosing details such as physical appearance, clothing, height, weight, etc. |
How Tos about The Color Purple OSCAR Analysis
Engage reluctant students in character analysis discussions
Start by using open-ended questions and think-pair-share activities to create a safe space for all voices. Encourage students to share their thoughts about character traits or motivations. Validate every contribution and connect ideas back to the OSCAR framework. This approach helps students build confidence and makes character analysis more interactive and enjoyable.
Model how to fill in each OSCAR category with examples
Demonstrate by choosing a character and thinking aloud as you fill in each OSCAR box. For example, read a line from the novel and explain whether it fits under Other Characters’ Comments or Speech. Use student-friendly language and visuals on the board to support understanding.
Incorporate multimedia to deepen character understanding
Play short film clips or audio readings related to the novel and ask students to identify OSCAR elements from what they see or hear. Discuss as a class how different media can reveal character traits in new ways.
Use graphic organizers to scaffold analysis
Provide students with a printable OSCAR chart or digital template. Encourage them to jot down notes during reading sessions. Highlight how organizing ideas visually helps connect evidence to each character trait.
Celebrate student insights with regular sharing
Set aside time for students to present their character maps or favorite OSCAR observations. Offer praise for thoughtful analysis and invite peers to ask questions. This fosters a collaborative classroom culture and motivates deeper reading.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Color Purple OSCAR Analysis
What is the OSCAR character analysis method in literature?
OSCAR is a character analysis tool that helps students examine characters from multiple angles: Other characters' comments, Speech, Characteristics, Author's attitude, and Reader's reaction. This structured approach deepens understanding of complex literary figures.
How can I create a character map for 'The Color Purple' using OSCAR?
To create a character map, list major characters and use the OSCAR framework: summarize what others say about them, their own speech, physical traits, author's viewpoint, and your personal reaction. Visual tools like storyboards can make these insights easier to organize and discuss.
Why is character mapping important when reading novels like 'The Color Purple'?
Character mapping helps students track key details and subtle changes in characters over time, making it easier to understand complex plots and themes. It supports deeper reading comprehension and analysis.
What are some tips for teaching OSCAR character analysis to high school students?
Start with clear definitions and examples for each OSCAR category. Use familiar characters to practice, and encourage students to use visual aids like storyboards. Discuss how each aspect reveals different layers of character development.
How does the OSCAR method enhance student engagement in literature lessons?
The OSCAR method prompts students to think critically and empathize with characters, making reading more interactive and meaningful. It also helps students organize their thoughts for essays or discussions.
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