Activity Overview
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Underground to Canada, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in Underground to Canada.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for "Character Description", "Character Traits", and "What challenges does this character face?"
- Save and exit when you're finished.
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
Character maps are a helpful tool for students to use as they're reading, although they can also be used after completing a book. In this activity, students will create a character map of the characters in Underground to Canada, paying close attention to the physical attributes and the traits of both major and minor characters. Students can also provide detailed information regarding the challenges the character faces, the challenges the character imposes, and the importance of the character to the plot of the story.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a character map for the major characters in Underground to Canada.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Choose a Storyboard That character to represent each of the book characters. Note: be sure to select colors and a pose appropriate to story and character traits.
- Fill in Textables for "Character Description", "Character Traits", and "What challenges does this character face?"
- Save and exit when you're finished.
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 Underground to Canada
How to facilitate a character map discussion after students complete their maps
Lead a class discussion where each student shares their character map and explains their choices. Encourage students to compare observations and respectfully challenge each other's ideas. This promotes deeper understanding and critical thinking about the text.
Ask students to explain their character choices
Invite each student to describe why they selected specific images, colors, or traits for their character map. Highlight how these choices connect to the story and deepen comprehension of character motivations.
Encourage students to connect characters’ challenges to historical context
Prompt students to discuss how the characters’ struggles reflect the real-life experiences of people in the Underground Railroad era. This helps students build empathy and understand the significance of historical fiction.
Guide students to identify character growth throughout the story
Ask students to point out moments when a character changes or learns something important. Connecting these moments to events in the plot reinforces analytical thinking and reading comprehension.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mapping Characters in Underground to Canada
What is a character map for Underground to Canada?
A character map for Underground to Canada is a visual tool that helps students organize and analyze the main and minor characters, their traits, physical descriptions, challenges faced, and their importance to the plot. It supports deeper understanding of the story and character development.
How do I create a character map for Underground to Canada?
To create a character map, choose a character from Underground to Canada, select an image or icon to represent them, and fill in sections for description, traits, and challenges faced. Use a template or online tool like Storyboard That for easy customization.
Why is mapping characters helpful when teaching Underground to Canada?
Mapping characters helps students track character development, understand relationships, and connect to the story's themes. It encourages close reading and critical thinking about how each character contributes to the plot and faces unique challenges.
What should be included in a character map for a novel like Underground to Canada?
A strong character map should include each character’s physical description, personality traits, challenges faced or imposed, and their role in the plot. Visual elements and concise notes make the map engaging and easy to use.
Are there easy-to-use templates or tools for student character maps?
Yes, tools like Storyboard That offer user-friendly templates for creating character maps. Students can drag and drop characters, add text for descriptions and traits, and customize colors and poses to match the story.
More Storyboard That Activities
Underground to Canada
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