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 Handmaid’s Tale Characters
- Offred
- The Commander
- Nick
- Serena Joy
- Ofglen
- Moira
- Aunt Lydia
- Luke
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 Handmaid’s Tale 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 Textables for Character Traits, Internal Traits, 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!
The Handmaid’s Tale Characters
- Offred
- The Commander
- Nick
- Serena Joy
- Ofglen
- Moira
- Aunt Lydia
- Luke
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 Handmaid’s Tale 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 Textables for Character Traits, Internal Traits, 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 The Handmaid’s Tale Character Map
Organize students into effective character map discussion groups
Group students based on reading level or character interest to encourage meaningful discussions and peer learning. Small, diverse groups help students share different perspectives and deepen their understanding of each character.
Assign character roles and responsibilities within each group
Give each student a specific character or map element to focus on. Role assignments ensure every group member is actively contributing and makes the mapping process more interactive.
Guide students to research and share additional character context
Encourage students to find background details or references about their assigned character using the text or trusted sources. Sharing new discoveries enriches the class map and supports deeper comprehension.
Facilitate a group character map presentation
Have groups present their completed character maps to the class. Presentations boost confidence, allow for peer feedback, and reinforce student learning by reviewing character insights together.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Handmaid’s Tale Character Map
What is a character map for The Handmaid’s Tale?
A character map for The Handmaid’s Tale is a visual organizer that helps students track and analyze the key characters, their traits, relationships, and important quotes as they progress through the novel.
How do I create a character map for The Handmaid’s Tale in my classroom?
To create a character map, list the major characters, assign each a representative image or icon, note their traits, and add key quotes. Use colors and scenes that match each character’s role to help students connect with the story.
Why is character mapping useful when reading novels like The Handmaid’s Tale?
Character mapping helps students remember details, recognize character development, and better understand plot subtleties, making complex novels like The Handmaid’s Tale more engaging and accessible.
What are some tips for helping students choose traits and quotes for each character?
Encourage students to focus on key actions, internal motivations, and memorable lines. Remind them to look for traits that reveal character growth or conflict and pick quotes that best capture each character’s voice.
Which characters should be included in a Handmaid’s Tale character map for high school students?
Major characters to include are Offred, The Commander, Nick, Serena Joy, Ofglen, Moira, Aunt Lydia, and Luke for a comprehensive overview.
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