Activity Overview
This activity allows for a more in-depth look at character traits. Students will need to provide textual evidence to support the character trait they choose. Students can support their idea with dialogue, thoughts, or actions of the character they are portraying. They can also use a character map to compare different characters.
Example character traits for characters in The Mouse and the Motorcycle:
- Keith: Kind, adventurous, thoughtful
- Ralph the Mouse: Adventurous, courageous, daring, irresponsible, honest
Here is an example of a character trait storyboard:
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 storyboard that shows one character traits for characters from The Mouse and the Motorcycle.
- Identify one character trait for each character.
- Make pictures that show examples each trait.
- Give textual evidence to support the traits you chose.
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
This activity allows for a more in-depth look at character traits. Students will need to provide textual evidence to support the character trait they choose. Students can support their idea with dialogue, thoughts, or actions of the character they are portraying. They can also use a character map to compare different characters.
Example character traits for characters in The Mouse and the Motorcycle:
- Keith: Kind, adventurous, thoughtful
- Ralph the Mouse: Adventurous, courageous, daring, irresponsible, honest
Here is an example of a character trait storyboard:
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 storyboard that shows one character traits for characters from The Mouse and the Motorcycle.
- Identify one character trait for each character.
- Make pictures that show examples each trait.
- Give textual evidence to support the traits you chose.
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 Identifying Character Traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle
How to Facilitate a Character Trait Discussion Circle
Gather your students in a circle and choose a character from The Mouse and the Motorcycle. Invite each student to share one trait they observed, providing specific examples from the text. Encourage respectful listening and ask follow-up questions to deepen understanding. This approach builds critical thinking and empathy while making character analysis interactive and fun.
Model giving text-based evidence for a character trait
Choose a character and trait, then read a passage aloud that shows the trait in action. Pause to highlight the dialogue, thoughts, or actions that support your choice. Clearly explain how these details prove the trait, helping students learn to back up their own ideas with strong evidence.
Guide students to select relevant character quotes
Encourage students to skim the text for lines where characters speak or act in ways that reveal their traits. Have them copy or underline these quotes in their notebooks. Discuss together why each quote is a good fit, reinforcing the importance of direct evidence.
Use anchor charts to visualize character traits
Create a large chart with character names and possible traits. As a class, add sticky notes with evidence from the story under each character. This visual tool helps students see patterns and makes abstract traits more concrete.
Encourage peer feedback on character trait choices
Pair students to share their character trait selections and supporting evidence. Teach them to ask clarifying questions or suggest alternative traits based on the text. Positive peer feedback builds confidence and sharpens analytical skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identifying Character Traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle
What are character traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle?
Character traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle are the qualities and behaviors that define each character, such as adventurous, kind, or courageous. Identifying these traits helps students understand characters' motivations and actions.
How can students find textual evidence for character traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle?
Students can find textual evidence by looking for lines of dialogue, thoughts, or actions in the story that show a character's trait. For example, if Ralph helps a friend, his actions prove he is courageous or kind.
What is a character map and how is it used for The Mouse and the Motorcycle?
A character map is a graphic organizer that helps students visually compare and contrast different characters' traits and supporting evidence. It is used to organize ideas when analyzing The Mouse and the Motorcycle.
What are some examples of character traits for Keith and Ralph in The Mouse and the Motorcycle?
In the book, Keith is shown as kind, adventurous, and thoughtful, while Ralph the Mouse is adventurous, courageous, daring, irresponsible, and honest.
How do you create a storyboard to show character traits in The Mouse and the Motorcycle?
To make a storyboard, choose a character, select a trait, and draw scenes that show this trait with textual evidence. Add captions or quotes from the book to support your choice.
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