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 Graveyard Book Characters
- Nobody Owens
- Mr. Owens
- Mrs. Owens
- Silas
- Scarlett Amber Perkins
- Liza Hempstock
- Jack Frost
- Mrs. Lupescu
- Mo Quilling and Nick Farthing
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 Graveyard Book 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 Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards 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 Graveyard Book Characters
- Nobody Owens
- Mr. Owens
- Mrs. Owens
- Silas
- Scarlett Amber Perkins
- Liza Hempstock
- Jack Frost
- Mrs. Lupescu
- Mo Quilling and Nick Farthing
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 Graveyard Book 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 Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards 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 Graveyard Book Character Analysis
Incorporate character maps into a reading comprehension lesson
Boost students’ understanding by using character maps as a central tool during a novel study. Character maps help students visualize relationships, track changes, and deepen comprehension as they read.
Model how to fill out a character map with the class
Demonstrate the process by projecting a blank character map and filling it out together using details from the first chapters. Think aloud as you decide what traits or information to include, helping students grasp what to look for.
Assign character mapping as an ongoing reading activity
Encourage students to update their character maps after each reading session. This ongoing task keeps key details fresh and helps reinforce character development throughout the novel.
Facilitate discussion using completed character maps
Invite students to share their character maps in small groups or as a class. Use these maps to spark rich discussions about character motivations, relationships, and changes over time.
Assess student understanding with a character map reflection
Ask students to write a brief reflection on what they learned about the characters from their maps. This activity helps you gauge comprehension and encourages thoughtful analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Graveyard Book Character Analysis
What is a character map in literature, and how can it help students understand The Graveyard Book?
A character map is a visual organizer that helps students track key traits, relationships, and developments for each character in a story. For The Graveyard Book, using a character map enables students to understand character roles, how they interact, and their significance in the novel.
How can teachers create a character map activity for The Graveyard Book?
Teachers can guide students to identify major characters, select images or symbols to represent them, and fill in sections for character traits, interactions with the protagonist, and the narrator's perspective. This can be done individually, with partners, or in groups for collaborative learning.
What are some important character traits to include for Nobody Owens in a character map?
Key traits for Nobody Owens might include curiosity, bravery, kindness, and adaptability. Students should also note his sense of belonging, his growth throughout the story, and his unique upbringing in the graveyard.
Why is character mapping helpful for middle school students reading The Graveyard Book?
Character mapping helps middle school students organize complex information, recall details, and recognize subtle character developments. It enhances comprehension, engagement, and the ability to analyze literary elements.
What should students include in each section of a character map for The Graveyard Book?
Students should list character traits, describe how each character interacts with the main character, and explain the narrator’s attitude toward them. Adding relevant scenes or backgrounds can deepen understanding.
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