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 Witch of Blackbird Pond Characters
- Kit Tyler
- Nat Eaton
- Hannah Tupper
- Matthew Wood
- Judith Wood
- Mercy Wood
- Rachel Wood
- William Ashby
- Prudence Cruff
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 Witch of Blackbird Pond and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a 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 Character Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards This Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
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 Witch of Blackbird Pond Characters
- Kit Tyler
- Nat Eaton
- Hannah Tupper
- Matthew Wood
- Judith Wood
- Mercy Wood
- Rachel Wood
- William Ashby
- Prudence Cruff
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 Witch of Blackbird Pond and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a 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 Character Traits, How Does This Character Interact with the Main Character, and What is the Narrator's Attitude Towards This Character.
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 all appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect strong understanding of the book's most important characters. | Most of the characters and scenes are appropriate for the book's characters. They reflect emerging understanding of the book's most important characters. | Many of the characters and scenes do not match the characters in the book. The project reflects a lack of understanding of the major characters. |
| 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. | Much of the information of the notes is incomplete and/or incorrect and irrelevant. |
| Effort and Editing | Work is complete, thorough, and neat. Spelling and grammar are correct. | Most of the sections of the character map were at least attempted and work is presentable. The text contains some errors in spelling and/or grammar. | Character map is unfinished and/or disorganized. The text contains many errors in spelling and/or grammar. |
How Tos about Mapping Characters in The Witch of Blackbird Pond
Organize a character map discussion to boost comprehension
Invite students to share their character maps in small groups or as a class. Encourage each student to explain their choices for traits, images, and backgrounds. This helps them deepen understanding and see different perspectives on the characters.
Facilitate connections between characters and story events
Guide students to link key story events with character actions or changes. Ask them to update their maps as they read new chapters so they can track how characters evolve and influence the plot.
Encourage use of evidence from the text
Remind students to support their character trait choices with specific examples or quotes from the book. This reinforces close reading skills and helps students ground their opinions in the text.
Incorporate creative elements for engagement
Allow students to add drawings, symbols, or color codes to their character maps. Visual elements can make their work more memorable and enjoyable, appealing to different learning styles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in The Witch of Blackbird Pond
What is a character map for The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
A character map for The Witch of Blackbird Pond is a visual or written organizer that helps students track important details about each character, such as traits, relationships, and their roles in the story. This tool makes it easier to remember and analyze characters as the plot develops.
How can I help students create a character map for a novel?
Guide students to list major characters, select images or symbols to represent them, and record key information like character traits, relationships, and the narrator's attitude. Encourage them to add details as they read to capture character development and interactions.
Why is character mapping useful when teaching The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
Character mapping helps students keep track of complex relationships and subtle traits, making it easier to follow the story, recall details for discussions, and understand character motivations. It also enhances engagement and comprehension.
What are some tips for making an engaging character map in middle school?
Use visual elements like colors and icons, include character quotes, and encourage creativity with backgrounds or scenes. Allow students to collaborate or personalize their maps to increase motivation and understanding.
Which major characters should be included in a character map for The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
Include Kit Tyler, Nat Eaton, Hannah Tupper, Matthew Wood, Judith Wood, Mercy Wood, Rachel Wood, William Ashby, and Prudence Cruff. These are the central figures in the novel.
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