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!
Here is a completed example for Ruby:
Ruby Bridges
Physical Appearance:
- young
- wears clean clothes and a bow
Character Traits:
- courageous
- brave
- smart
- a leader
- polite
Evidence:
"Wearing a clean dress and a bow in her hair."
"She was polite and she worked well at her desk."
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 Story of Ruby Bridges 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 Appearance, 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!
Here is a completed example for Ruby:
Ruby Bridges
Physical Appearance:
- young
- wears clean clothes and a bow
Character Traits:
- courageous
- brave
- smart
- a leader
- polite
Evidence:
"Wearing a clean dress and a bow in her hair."
"She was polite and she worked well at her desk."
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 Story of Ruby Bridges 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 Appearance, 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 Story of Ruby Bridges Character Map
Organize a collaborative character map activity for your class
Invite students to work in pairs or small groups to create character maps together. Collaboration encourages discussion and helps students learn from each other’s perspectives as they analyze characters in greater depth.
Assign roles within each group to foster participation
Designate specific roles—such as recorder, illustrator, and presenter—so every student is actively involved. This structure ensures all voices are heard and each student develops a sense of responsibility in the project.
Model how to use textual evidence when describing characters
Demonstrate how to find supporting details in the text and add them to the character map. Show students how using direct quotes or examples strengthens their understanding and analysis.
Facilitate a gallery walk to share group character maps
Have groups post their completed character maps around the classroom. Allow time for students to walk around, review others’ work, and leave positive feedback. This activity promotes peer learning and builds classroom community.
Reflect on the collaborative process as a class
Lead a brief discussion about what students learned from working together. Encourage them to share new insights or strategies they discovered. Reflection helps reinforce both content and teamwork skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Story of Ruby Bridges Character Map
What is a character map for The Story of Ruby Bridges?
A character map for The Story of Ruby Bridges is a visual organizer that helps students track details about important characters, including their appearance, traits, and evidence from the text. It supports deeper comprehension and engagement.
How can I create a character map for Ruby Bridges with my students?
To create a character map for Ruby Bridges, have students identify key characters, select images or drawings to represent them, and fill out sections for physical appearance, personality traits, and supporting evidence from the story.
Why is character mapping helpful in teaching The Story of Ruby Bridges?
Character mapping helps students recall important details, follow character development, and understand the story’s deeper themes. It encourages active reading and critical thinking skills in young learners.
What are examples of character traits for Ruby Bridges?
Ruby Bridges is described as courageous, brave, smart, a leader, and polite. These traits are supported by story evidence, such as her calm demeanor and respectful behavior in challenging situations.
What is the best way to use storyboards for character maps in a grade 2-3 classroom?
The best way is to guide students in creating individual or partner storyboards, where they select characters, choose scenes, and fill in text boxes for appearance, traits, and evidence. This visual activity makes comprehension interactive and memorable.
More Storyboard That Activities
Story of Ruby Bridges, The
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