ABOUT THE STRATEGY
A CHARACTER MAP is a graphic organizer that helps students learn about a character
and how the character impacts and is impacted by setting, other characters, and plot.
It is used during and after reading a text. This strategy supports students’
comprehension by providing students with a framework for identifying and
organizing details about a character.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STRATEGY
Establish the purpose of the character map.
Discuss the main components of characterization, i.e., what a characters says and
thinks, what a characters looks like, how a character acts, and how others view
and treat the character.
Discuss how characters impact and are impacted by other elements of literature,
e.g., setting, characters, and plot.
Provide students with a character map graphic organizer and model how to use it.
Using a class text(s) and a think aloud to illustrate your thinking; scaffold as
needed.
As students read, have them complete the character map. After reading, have
students fill in any missing parts; scaffold as needed.
MEASURING PROGRESS
Teacher observation
Conferring
Student journaling
Graphic organizer informal assessment
RESEARCH
Dexter, D. D., & Hughes, C. (2011). Graphic organizers and students with learning
disabilities: A meta-analysis. Learning Disability Quarterly, 34(2), 51-72.
Kim, A., Vaughn, S., Wanzek, J., & Wei, S. (2008). Graphic organizers and their effects
on the reading comprehension of students with LD: A synthesis of research.
Journal of Learning Disabilities, 37(2), 105-118.
Little, D. C., & Box, J. A. (2011). The use of a specific schema theory strategy-semantic
mapping to facilitate vocabulary development and comprehension for at-risk
reader. Reading Improvement, 48(1), 24-31.
Information Technology Solutions
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Character Map
Wisconsin
State Standards
Reading: Literature
- Key Ideas and
Details
Grade Level
K-5
Purpose
Use with students
to support
comprehension:
identify and
organize details
about a character
When to Use
During Reading
After Reading
Grouping
Whole Group
Small Group
Partners
Individuals
