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 story, 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!
Tuesdays with Morrie Characters
- Morrie Schwartz
- Mitch Albom
- Connie
- Janine Sabino-Albom
- Charlotte Schwartz
- Ted Koppel
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 Tuesdays with Morrie 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 Textables for Physical Appearance, 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 story, 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!
Tuesdays with Morrie Characters
- Morrie Schwartz
- Mitch Albom
- Connie
- Janine Sabino-Albom
- Charlotte Schwartz
- Ted Koppel
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 Tuesdays with Morrie 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 Textables for Physical Appearance, 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 Tuesdays with Morrie Characters
How to Facilitate a Meaningful Class Discussion About Morrie’s Life Lessons
Encourage students to share their insights on Morrie’s core philosophies. Invite thoughtful responses by asking open-ended questions and allowing wait time for answers. This helps students connect personally with the themes.
Prepare discussion questions that explore character motivations
Draft 3–5 questions focusing on why each character acts as they do. Encourage students to reference specific moments in the story, deepening their understanding of character development.
Set clear expectations for respectful listening and sharing
Establish ground rules for discussion, such as listening without interrupting and valuing each opinion. Model respectful dialogue so students feel safe to participate.
Use quotes from the text to spark conversation
Select compelling quotes from Morrie or Mitch and ask students what these mean to them. This helps anchor the discussion in the text and supports evidence-based responses.
Wrap up with a reflective exit ticket
Ask each student to write a brief reflection on what lesson from Morrie resonated most with them and why. Collect these to assess understanding and foster personal connections to the material.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tuesdays with Morrie Characters
What is a character map for Tuesdays with Morrie?
A character map for Tuesdays with Morrie is a graphic organizer that helps students track and analyze the main characters, their traits, physical appearances, and key quotes from the book, aiding comprehension and deeper understanding.
Who are the main characters in Tuesdays with Morrie?
The main characters in Tuesdays with Morrie include Morrie Schwartz, Mitch Albom, Connie, Janine, Sabino-Albom, Charlotte Schwartz, and Ted Koppel. Each plays a significant role in the story and its themes.
How can students create a character map for Tuesdays with Morrie?
Students can create a character map by listing each main character, selecting visual representations, adding backgrounds, and filling in sections for physical appearance, character traits, and notable quotes from the book.
Why is character mapping important when reading novels like Tuesdays with Morrie?
Character mapping helps students remember details, understand relationships, and notice character development, making it easier to follow the plot and uncover subtle themes in novels like Tuesdays with Morrie.
What are some example character traits for Morrie Schwartz?
Morrie Schwartz is often described as wise, compassionate, patient, and optimistic. Noting these traits in a character map helps students connect with his role and the story’s lessons.
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