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!
Example The Moon is Down. Characters
Mayor Orden
- Physical Traits: Large, white mustache; thick white eyebrows; wears the chain of his office around his neck; thick white hair
- Character Traits: Man of the people; confused at first, but abides by their will; believes that the spirit of man can never be broken; refuses to follow the facade of civility that Lanser is trying to create; tenacious; brave; confident
- Quote: "My people don’t like to have others think for them. Maybe they are different from your people. I am confused, but that I am sure of."
Other characters included in this map are: Doctor Winter, Colonel Lanser, Molly Morden, Lieutenant Tonder, and George Corell.
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 Moon is Down 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 Physical Traits, Character 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!
Example The Moon is Down. Characters
Mayor Orden
- Physical Traits: Large, white mustache; thick white eyebrows; wears the chain of his office around his neck; thick white hair
- Character Traits: Man of the people; confused at first, but abides by their will; believes that the spirit of man can never be broken; refuses to follow the facade of civility that Lanser is trying to create; tenacious; brave; confident
- Quote: "My people don’t like to have others think for them. Maybe they are different from your people. I am confused, but that I am sure of."
Other characters included in this map are: Doctor Winter, Colonel Lanser, Molly Morden, Lieutenant Tonder, and George Corell.
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 Moon is Down 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 Physical Traits, Character 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 Moon is Down Character Map
Easily Differentiate Character Maps for Diverse Learners
Adapt your character map assignment by offering options for visual, written, or audio responses so all students can showcase understanding in ways that suit their strengths. Providing templates or sentence starters helps support emerging writers, while letting advanced students add extra analysis keeps everyone engaged.
Assign character map groups based on reading levels
Group students with similar reading abilities so each team can work at an appropriate pace. Pairing students strategically ensures everyone participates, and stronger readers can help guide discussions without dominating.
Incorporate character maps into literature circles
Integrate character maps as a regular part of your literature circles. Assign roles such as 'Character Detective' so students focus on specific traits or actions, then share their findings with the group.
Use graphic organizers for scaffolded support
Provide printable or digital character map templates to help students organize their thoughts before filling in details. Scaffolded organizers can include guiding questions or prompts for each box.
Encourage creative expression in character representations
Allow students to draw, collage, or digitally design their character images. Creative options boost engagement and help students connect more deeply with the characters they study.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Moon is Down Character Map
What is a character map and how can it help students reading The Moon is Down?
A character map is a graphic organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as physical traits, personality, and key quotes. When reading The Moon is Down, it aids comprehension by making it easier to remember and analyze characters as the story progresses.
How do you create a character map for The Moon is Down?
To make a character map for The Moon is Down, list the major characters, select visuals to represent them, and fill in details like physical traits, character traits, and memorable quotes for each one. Use a storyboard or template for organization.
Which characters should be included in a character map for The Moon is Down?
A complete character map for The Moon is Down should include Mayor Orden, Doctor Winter, Colonel Lanser, Molly Morden, Lieutenant Tonder, and George Corell.
Why is character mapping effective for high school literature lessons?
Character mapping helps high school students keep track of multiple characters, notice small but important details, and deepen understanding of themes and motivations, making literature more engaging and accessible.
What are some best practices for using character maps in the classroom?
Best practices include assigning character maps individually or in pairs, encouraging students to use color and visuals, updating the map as new details emerge, and discussing findings to strengthen comprehension and critical thinking.
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