Activity Overview
Character spider 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 spider map of the three main characters in The Frog Prince, 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 spider map for the three main characters in The Frog Prince.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Write 2-3 sentences that describe the 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 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 spider 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 spider map of the three main characters in The Frog Prince, 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 spider map for the three main characters in The Frog Prince.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Write 2-3 sentences that describe the 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 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 Describing Characters in The Frog Prince
How to facilitate a class discussion on character traits using The Frog Prince
Lead an open discussion by asking students to share examples of character traits from The Frog Prince. Encourage participation by prompting with guiding questions like, “What did the princess do when she lost her ball?” or “How did the frog help, even when he was ignored?” This builds critical thinking and helps students connect actions to traits.
Prompt students to support character traits with text evidence
Ask students to find sentences or events in the story that show a character’s trait. Model finding evidence by reading a passage aloud and highlighting what the character says or does. This strengthens reading comprehension and helps students justify their ideas.
Guide students in comparing two characters from the story
Have students choose two main characters and list their similarities and differences in traits or actions. Use a Venn diagram on the board or paper to organize ideas visually. This boosts analytical thinking and deepens understanding of each character’s role.
Encourage students to relate character traits to real life
Invite students to share if they have ever acted like one of the characters or know someone who has. Connect story traits to real-world behavior to make learning meaningful. This fosters personal reflection and empathy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Describing Characters in The Frog Prince
What is a character spider map in reading activities?
A character spider map is a graphic organizer that helps students visually break down and describe a character’s physical traits, personality, and role in a story. It typically includes a central image of the character with connected branches for details like actions, motivations, and challenges.
How can I help students describe characters in The Frog Prince?
To help students describe characters in The Frog Prince, encourage them to use spider maps that include physical attributes, character traits, and the challenges each character faces or causes. This method makes it easier for students to organize their thoughts and deepen their understanding of the story.
What are some key character traits to look for in The Frog Prince?
Some important character traits in The Frog Prince include kindness, honesty, determination, and transformation. Students should focus on how each main character displays these traits through their actions and decisions in the story.
Why use character maps for elementary students?
Character maps help elementary students organize information, improve comprehension, and make connections between character traits and the plot. They provide a visual structure that supports critical thinking and detailed analysis, especially for younger readers.
What is the best way to teach character analysis using The Frog Prince?
The best way is to guide students through creating a spider map for each main character. Have them use a storyboard tool to visually represent traits and actions, then write a few sentences summarizing each character’s role and importance in the story.
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