Activity Overview
A fun way to get your students to connect with and understand the two main characters is to have them compare and contrast their qualities.
Students can use the text to find traits of the boy and the man (sign painter). Students can work individually or in pairs to research and compile a list of evidence. Once students have traits for each character, they can compare/contrast. Students will describe the traits they compiled about the boy on one side and the traits they discovered about the man on the other.
The text does not explicitly state traits of the characters, but one can use the dialogue and illustrations to infer ideas about the characters.
Boy
- younger
- quiet
- wants to follow dreams (even if it means taking risks)
- dreams of becoming a painter
Man
- older
- talkative
- follows the rules/completes purpose at hand
- is a sign painter
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
Compare and contrast the main characters.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the characters' names in the headings.
- List character traits in the descriptions.
- Add illustrations that include appropriate scenes, characters, items, and dialogue.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
A fun way to get your students to connect with and understand the two main characters is to have them compare and contrast their qualities.
Students can use the text to find traits of the boy and the man (sign painter). Students can work individually or in pairs to research and compile a list of evidence. Once students have traits for each character, they can compare/contrast. Students will describe the traits they compiled about the boy on one side and the traits they discovered about the man on the other.
The text does not explicitly state traits of the characters, but one can use the dialogue and illustrations to infer ideas about the characters.
Boy
- younger
- quiet
- wants to follow dreams (even if it means taking risks)
- dreams of becoming a painter
Man
- older
- talkative
- follows the rules/completes purpose at hand
- is a sign painter
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
Compare and contrast the main characters.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the characters' names in the headings.
- List character traits in the descriptions.
- Add illustrations that include appropriate scenes, characters, items, and dialogue.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Compare Characters in The Sign Painter
Engage Students with a Character Traits Anchor Chart
Create a classroom anchor chart highlighting character traits for the boy and the man from The Sign Painter.
Why: Visual aids help students organize their thoughts and notice differences and similarities in characters, making comparison easier and more meaningful.
Model How to Infer Traits from Dialogue and Illustrations
Show students how to find character traits by examining what characters say and how they are shown in pictures.
Why: This helps students develop critical thinking skills and deepens their understanding of the text, especially when traits are not directly stated.
Guide Students in Gathering Evidence from the Text
Encourage students to search for quotes, actions, and images that support each trait they identify.
Why: Gathering evidence teaches students to back up their ideas and strengthens their analytical skills.
Facilitate a Collaborative Discussion on Character Differences
Lead a class or small group discussion where students share and debate their findings.
Why: Collaborative conversation helps students see different perspectives and improves communication skills.
Encourage Creative Illustrations to Represent Traits
Invite students to draw scenes or symbols that represent character traits and differences.
Why: Creative expression allows students to connect more personally with the characters and reinforces comprehension.
Frequently Asked Questions about Compare Characters in The Sign Painter
How can students compare and contrast characters in The Sign Painter?
To compare and contrast characters in The Sign Painter, students should gather character traits from the text and illustrations, then list similarities and differences between the boy and the man. This helps students understand each character's motivations and personalities.
What traits can be inferred about the boy and the man in The Sign Painter?
The boy is younger, quiet, dreams of becoming a painter, and is willing to take risks. The man is older, talkative, follows rules, and is focused on completing tasks as a sign painter. These traits can be inferred from their actions, dialogue, and illustrations in the book.
What is an easy classroom activity to help students analyze characters in The Sign Painter?
A simple activity is to have students list character traits for each main character using evidence from the text and pictures, then create a compare-and-contrast chart or illustrations showing differences and similarities.
How can students use illustrations to infer character traits in The Sign Painter?
Students can examine illustrations for clues about how characters act, their expressions, and interactions. These visual details often reveal traits not stated directly in the text, supporting deeper character analysis.
What grade level is appropriate for comparing characters in The Sign Painter?
The activity is best suited for grades 2–3, as it helps developing readers practice inference and compare-and-contrast skills in a manageable, engaging way.
More Storyboard That Activities
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