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 Red Badge of Courage Characters
- Private Henry Fleming / The Youth
- Jim Conklin / The Tall Soldier
- Wilson / The Loud Soldier and The Friend
- The Injured Lieutenant
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 Red Badge of Courage and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "1600s to 1800s" tab 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 a 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 Red Badge of Courage Characters
- Private Henry Fleming / The Youth
- Jim Conklin / The Tall Soldier
- Wilson / The Loud Soldier and The Friend
- The Injured Lieutenant
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 Red Badge of Courage and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "1600s to 1800s" tab 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 a 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 Red Badge of Courage Character Map
Organize your character map before reading
Getting organized saves time and sets students up for success. Prepare your character map template before starting the novel so you can easily fill in details as characters are introduced.
Introduce each character as they appear
Add new characters to your map as soon as they show up in the story. This helps students track who’s who and prevents confusion later on.
Model how to identify key traits and details
Demonstrate for your class how to pick out important physical and character traits. Show examples from the text so students see exactly what to look for as they read.
Encourage students to add quotes that reveal character
Ask students to include quotes that show a character’s personality or motivations. This deepens understanding and makes the map a richer reference tool.
Review and update maps after each chapter
Set aside time to revisit character maps regularly. Prompt students to add new information as characters change or reveal more about themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Red Badge of Courage Character Map
What is a character map for The Red Badge of Courage?
A character map for The Red Badge of Courage is a visual organizer that helps students track important details, traits, and quotes for each main character, making it easier to understand and recall the novel's plot and character development.
How do you create a character map for The Red Badge of Courage in class?
To create a character map, list the main characters, choose images or icons to represent them, and fill in sections for physical traits, personality traits, and key quotes. Students can use storyboards and select backgrounds or poses that fit each character.
Why are character maps useful when teaching The Red Badge of Courage?
Character maps help students organize information about each character, making it easier to follow complex plots, remember details, and identify how characters change throughout the story. This deepens comprehension and engagement.
What should be included in a Red Badge of Courage character map?
A character map should include the character's name, physical traits, character traits, and a memorable quote. Visual elements like colors or scenes can further illustrate their roles or personalities.
Who are the major characters in The Red Badge of Courage to feature in a character map?
The major characters to include are Private Henry Fleming (The Youth), Jim Conklin (The Tall Soldier), Wilson (The Loud Soldier), and The Injured Lieutenant.
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