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!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in A Thousand Splendid Suns.
A Thousand Splendid Suns Characters Example
Mariam
- Physical Traits: Dark hair; green eyes; long face; not particularly pretty; weathered by years of living with Rasheed
- Character Traits:Timid and broken; afraid of Rasheed until she finds strength through Laila and the children; becomes like another mother to the children; sacrifices her own life so that Laila and the children can have a new beginning with Tariq
- Quote
“‘For me, it ends here. There’s nothing more I want. Everything I’d ever wished for as a little girl you’ve already given me. You and your children have made me so very happy.’”
Other characters included in this map are: Laila, Rasheed, Tariq, Jalil, Aziza, Zalmai and Babi.
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 A Thousand Splendid Suns and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "Cultural" or other appropriate tabs 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!
Use a character map to help track the different characters that are discussed in A Thousand Splendid Suns.
A Thousand Splendid Suns Characters Example
Mariam
- Physical Traits: Dark hair; green eyes; long face; not particularly pretty; weathered by years of living with Rasheed
- Character Traits:Timid and broken; afraid of Rasheed until she finds strength through Laila and the children; becomes like another mother to the children; sacrifices her own life so that Laila and the children can have a new beginning with Tariq
- Quote
“‘For me, it ends here. There’s nothing more I want. Everything I’d ever wished for as a little girl you’ve already given me. You and your children have made me so very happy.’”
Other characters included in this map are: Laila, Rasheed, Tariq, Jalil, Aziza, Zalmai and Babi.
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 A Thousand Splendid Suns and type their names into the different title boxes.
- Choose a character from the "Cultural" or other appropriate tabs 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 A Thousand Splendid Suns Character Map
Engage students with interactive character map discussions
Foster classroom engagement by hosting lively discussions where students share and compare their character maps. Encourage each student to highlight unique character insights, promoting critical thinking and collaborative learning.
Model how to create a character map with the class
Demonstrate the process by creating a character map together on the board or projector. Guide students in identifying physical traits, character traits, and meaningful quotes, making the process clear and approachable for everyone.
Assign characters strategically for deeper analysis
Assign different characters to small groups or pairs so each student can dig deeper. Challenge groups to find subtle traits or important quotes, then present their findings to the class for a richer understanding.
Incorporate visual and creative elements into character maps
Encourage students to use drawings, icons, or colors that represent each character’s traits and journey. Visual elements make character maps more memorable and help visual learners connect with the material.
Connect character maps to larger themes in the novel
Guide students to link their character maps to major themes, such as resilience or sacrifice. Discuss how each character’s experiences reflect these themes, making literary analysis more meaningful and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Thousand Splendid Suns Character Map
What is a character map for A Thousand Splendid Suns?
A character map for A Thousand Splendid Suns is a visual or written tool that helps students keep track of important details about each character, such as their physical traits, personalities, relationships, and significant quotes, making it easier to follow the novel's plot and character development.
How can students create a character map for A Thousand Splendid Suns?
To create a character map, students should list each major character, add their physical and character traits, choose a suitable image or icon, select colors and poses that match the character, and include a meaningful quote. This helps deepen understanding and recall of the story's details.
Which characters should be included in a character map for A Thousand Splendid Suns?
A thorough character map should include main characters like Mariam, Laila, Rasheed, Tariq, Jalil, Aziza, Zalmai, and Babi, capturing their roles and unique traits throughout the novel.
Why is character mapping helpful for understanding novels like A Thousand Splendid Suns?
Character mapping helps students track subtle changes and relationships between characters, making it easier to understand complex plots, remember key details, and appreciate the development and themes within the novel.
What information should be included for each character in a character map?
Each character entry should have physical traits, personality traits, a representative image or icon, relevant quotes, and any important relationships or roles in the story to provide a well-rounded understanding.
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