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 play, 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 Tempest Characters
- Prospero
- Miranda
- Ariel
- Ferdinand
- Alonso
- Antonio
- Caliban
- Gonzalo
- Sebastian
- Stephano
- Trinculo
- Boatswain
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 Tempest and type their names into the different title boxes. Add more cells as necessary.
- Choose a Storyboard That 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.
- Replace the bold words in the text boxes with the following categories for each character: Physical Traits, Character Traits, and a Quote. Write sentences or bullet points to provide details for each category.
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 play, 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 Tempest Characters
- Prospero
- Miranda
- Ariel
- Ferdinand
- Alonso
- Antonio
- Caliban
- Gonzalo
- Sebastian
- Stephano
- Trinculo
- Boatswain
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 Tempest and type their names into the different title boxes. Add more cells as necessary.
- Choose a Storyboard That 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.
- Replace the bold words in the text boxes with the following categories for each character: Physical Traits, Character Traits, and a Quote. Write sentences or bullet points to provide details for each category.
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 Tempest Character Map
How to Lead a Class Discussion on Character Motivations in The Tempest
Engage students by prompting them to analyze why each character acts as they do. Ask guiding questions like, “What does Prospero want most?” or “Why does Caliban behave this way?” This approach deepens understanding and encourages evidence-based thinking.
Prepare open-ended questions for each main character
Write one or two thought-provoking questions about the motivations, desires, or fears for each character. These should not have simple yes/no answers and should invite students to use evidence from the text.
Assign students to small groups for focused discussion
Divide the class into groups and give each group a character to discuss in depth. Provide them with your prepared questions to spark conversation and ensure every student participates.
Facilitate a whole-class share-out
Bring the class back together and have each group share their insights. Encourage respectful debate and ask follow-up questions to help students build on each other's ideas.
Connect motivations to character actions and themes
Guide students to link their discussion of motivations to key plot events and major themes in The Tempest. This helps students see the bigger picture and deepens their literary analysis skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Tempest Character Map
What is a character map for The Tempest?
A character map for The Tempest is a visual organizer that helps students track key details, traits, and relationships of the main characters in Shakespeare's play, making it easier to understand the plot and character development.
How do I create a character map for The Tempest in my classroom?
To create a character map for The Tempest, list each major character, add their physical and character traits, include a relevant quote, and use visuals or colors to represent their roles and relationships within the story.
Why is character mapping helpful when reading The Tempest?
Character mapping helps students recall important details, track character relationships, and notice subtle plot points in The Tempest, leading to a deeper understanding and more engaging reading experience.
What information should I include in a character map for The Tempest?
Include each character’s physical traits, personality traits, and a memorable quote in your character map, along with visual or color cues that reflect their significance in The Tempest.
Which characters are essential to include in a Tempest character map for high school students?
Essential characters for a Tempest character map include Prospero, Miranda, Ariel, Ferdinand, Alonso, Antonio, Caliban, Gonzalo, Sebastian, Stephano, Trinculo, and Boatswain.
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