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. With character mapping, students will record this information, helping them follow along and catch the subtleties which make reading more enjoyable!
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. Printing it as worksheets for your students to complete while reading is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom.
Example Character Map Entry for Grandma
Physical Appearance
- Older
- Gray/white hair
Character Traits
- "River rat"
- Artistic
- Caring
- Not a 'normal' type of Grandma
Evidence
- "Well, she's not your normal kind of Grandma. Calls herself a river rat."
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 Raft 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 called 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!
You can click on this map and create a copy on your teacher account. Feel free to use it as is, or to edit it for the level of your class. Printing it as worksheets for your students to complete while reading is a fast and easy way to incorporate this character map into your classroom.
Example Character Map Entry for Grandma
Physical Appearance
- Older
- Gray/white hair
Character Traits
- "River rat"
- Artistic
- Caring
- Not a 'normal' type of Grandma
Evidence
- "Well, she's not your normal kind of Grandma. Calls herself a river rat."
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 Raft 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 The Raft Character Map
Create engaging class discussions using character maps
Facilitate lively conversations about characters by prompting students to share their observations from their character maps. Encourage students to compare notes and discuss how different traits and evidence shape their understanding of each character.
Prepare discussion prompts ahead of time
Write open-ended questions based on key characters and their traits before class. This helps students think deeply and reference their character maps to support their ideas during the discussion.
Encourage students to use text evidence
Ask students to cite specific evidence from the text or their character maps when making points. This strengthens critical thinking and ensures conversations stay grounded in the story.
Rotate discussion leaders for student ownership
Assign different students to lead the discussion or summarize character traits each session. This builds confidence and gives every student a chance to guide their peers using the character maps.
Wrap up with a reflective activity
Have students write or share how their views of a character changed after group discussion. This reinforces listening skills and personal reflection, deepening comprehension of the story.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Raft Character Map
What is a character map for 'The Raft' and how does it help students?
A character map for 'The Raft' is a visual tool that helps students track important details about each character in the story. It supports comprehension by letting students record physical traits, personality, and key evidence, making it easier to understand character development and remember story details.
How do I create a character map for 'The Raft' with my students?
To create a character map, have students identify major characters, select visual representations, and fill in boxes for physical appearance, character traits, and textual evidence. You can use the provided template, edit it for your class level, and print it as worksheets for an easy classroom activity.
What are some example character traits for Grandma in 'The Raft'?
In 'The Raft', Grandma is described as a "river rat," artistic, caring, and not a 'normal' type of grandma. She has gray or white hair and stands out for her unique, creative personality and supportive nature.
Can I edit and customize the character map template for different grade levels?
Yes, you can edit and customize the character map template to fit your students' grade level or specific needs. Adjust the complexity, character list, or prompts to make it age-appropriate and engaging for your class.
What is the best way to use character maps as worksheets during reading?
The best way is to print the character maps as worksheets and have students fill them out while reading. This approach encourages active engagement, helps track character changes, and supports comprehension throughout the story.
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