Activity Overview
As students read, a storyboard can serve as a helpful character reference log. This log, also known as a character map, allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is an example for Pandora:
- Physical Appearance: Cat
- Character Traits: Good heart, lighthouse keeper, friendly, healer, saves lives
- Evidence: "But Pandora was not afraid of this life, for her heart was so good and clear that fear would not creep inside it.”
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 Storm and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book 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 Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Evidence.
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 known as a character map, allows students to recall relevant information about important characters. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
Here is an example for Pandora:
- Physical Appearance: Cat
- Character Traits: Good heart, lighthouse keeper, friendly, healer, saves lives
- Evidence: "But Pandora was not afraid of this life, for her heart was so good and clear that fear would not creep inside it.”
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 Storm and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book 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 Physical Traits, Character Traits, and Evidence.
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 Mapping Characters in The Lighthouse Family: The Storm
How to Facilitate a Character Map Walk in Your Classroom
Encourage students to share their character maps by organizing a Character Map Walk. This interactive activity fosters collaboration and helps students deepen their understanding of each character by viewing classmates’ work.
Post student character maps around the room
Have students display their completed character maps on the walls or desks. Choose areas with enough space for everyone to move around easily.
Divide students into small groups
Organize your class into groups of 3–4 students. Assign each group a starting point so everyone begins at a different map.
Rotate groups to view each character map
Set a timer for 2–3 minutes at each station. Groups should walk around the room, quietly reading and discussing each map. Encourage them to notice unique details or evidence their peers included.
Lead a class discussion after the walk
Gather the class and discuss what students observed. Ask guiding questions like, “What new insights did you gain about a character?” or “Which evidence did you find most convincing?” This builds critical thinking and reflection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in The Lighthouse Family: The Storm
What is a character map and how can it help students understand The Lighthouse Family: The Storm?
A character map is a visual tool that helps students organize information about key characters in a story. Using a character map for The Lighthouse Family: The Storm allows students to track physical traits, character qualities, and important evidence, making it easier to follow the plot and understand character development.
How do you create a character map for The Storm by Cynthia Rylant?
To create a character map for The Storm, list the major characters, choose or draw images to represent them, and fill out sections for physical appearance, personality traits, and supporting evidence from the text. This helps students actively engage with the material and remember key details.
What are the main character traits of Pandora in The Lighthouse Family: The Storm?
Pandora is described as a cat who is good-hearted, brave, friendly, and a healer. She serves as the lighthouse keeper and is known for saving lives, showing kindness and courage throughout the story.
Why is character mapping important for 3rd and 4th grade students?
Character mapping helps 3rd and 4th grade students organize their thoughts, improve reading comprehension, and better understand story elements by tracking important details about each character as they read.
What are some tips for selecting character traits and evidence for a character map activity?
When filling out a character map, choose character traits that are clearly shown in the story and support them with direct quotes or specific events. Look for actions, dialogue, and descriptions that reveal the character’s personality and role in the plot.
More Storyboard That Activities
Lighthouse Family: The Storm, The
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