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!
Isaac
Physical Appearance
- Man
- Worn-out clothing
Character Traits
- Hungry
- Poor
- Persistent
- Grateful
Evidence
- "He lived in such poverty that again and again he went to bed hungry."
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 Treasure and type their names into the different title boxes.
- 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.
- 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!
Isaac
Physical Appearance
- Man
- Worn-out clothing
Character Traits
- Hungry
- Poor
- Persistent
- Grateful
Evidence
- "He lived in such poverty that again and again he went to bed hungry."
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 Treasure and type their names into the different title boxes.
- 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.
- 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 Mapping Characters in The Treasure
How to facilitate a class discussion using character maps
Encourage students to share their character maps with the class, prompting discussion on character traits and motivations. This helps build speaking and listening skills and deepens comprehension as students explain their choices and interpretations.
Model creating a character map together
Demonstrate building a character map on the board or projector with the whole class. Think aloud while choosing traits and evidence, showing students how to reference the text for details.
Assign students to small groups for collaborative mapping
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a different major character. Collaboration encourages students to discuss and agree on key traits and supporting evidence together.
Display completed character maps in the classroom
Showcase student work by creating a bulletin board or wall display of the character maps. This makes learning visible and lets students refer back to the maps throughout the unit.
Connect character mapping to writing activities
Use the information from character maps to inspire short writing assignments, such as a diary entry from the character's perspective. This helps students apply their understanding in creative ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in The Treasure
What is a character map in reading lessons?
A character map is a visual tool that helps students track details about story characters, such as their appearance, traits, and important evidence. It supports comprehension and makes it easier to follow the plot and character development.
How do I create a character map for 'The Treasure' by Uri Shulevitz?
To make a character map for The Treasure, list each major character, add their names, choose images or drawings to represent them, and note their physical appearance, key traits, and supporting evidence from the story.
Why should students use character maps when reading stories?
Character maps help students organize information, remember character details, and notice subtle changes in behavior or traits, making reading more engaging and meaningful.
What are some examples of character traits to include in a character map?
Common character traits include persistence, gratitude, kindness, honesty, and bravery. For example, Isaac in The Treasure is described as persistent and grateful.
What evidence should students include in a character map?
Students should add direct quotes or specific actions from the story that show the character’s traits or motivations. For example, “He lived in such poverty that again and again he went to bed hungry” reveals Isaac’s situation.
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