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 When You Trap a Tiger, 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 When You Trap a Tiger.
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 "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character change throughout the novel?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
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 When You Trap a Tiger, 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 When You Trap a Tiger.
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 "Physical/Character Traits", "How does this character change throughout the novel?", and "What challenges does this character face?"
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 When You Trap a Tiger Characters
Use character maps to spark rich classroom discussions
Facilitate a whole-class or small-group conversation using students' character maps as prompts. Encourage multiple perspectives by inviting students to share how they interpreted a character's actions or growth. This strategy helps students make deeper connections to the story and practice respectful discussion skills.
Invite students to compare characters' journeys
Ask students to look at two or more character maps and identify similarities and differences in each character's challenges, traits, and development. Guide them to consider how the characters' experiences shape their actions. This comparison activity builds analytical thinking and empathy.
Incorporate visual elements for deeper understanding
Encourage students to add symbols, colors, or small drawings to their character maps to represent feelings, important moments, or changes. Visual cues help students remember key details and can make abstract ideas more concrete for younger learners.
Connect character traits to real-life scenarios
Prompt students to think about when they've faced similar challenges or shown traits like the characters. Discuss how they might respond in similar situations. This step helps students put themselves in the characters' shoes and builds social-emotional skills.
Frequently Asked Questions about When You Trap a Tiger Characters
What is a character map in literature?
A character map is a graphic organizer that helps students track and analyze characters’ traits, development, and roles in a story. It usually includes details like physical attributes, personality traits, changes throughout the plot, and key challenges faced by each character.
How do I create a character map for 'When You Trap a Tiger'?
To create a character map for When You Trap a Tiger, choose a character, then note their physical and personality traits, describe how they change in the story, and list the main challenges they face. Using visual tools like Storyboard That can make this process engaging for students.
Why is analyzing character traits important for students?
Analyzing character traits helps students deepen their comprehension, connect with the story, and understand how characters’ decisions drive the plot. It also builds empathy and critical thinking skills.
What are some tips for teaching character analysis in upper elementary grades?
Use character maps to visually organize details, model analysis with think-alouds, and encourage students to support their ideas with evidence from the text. Incorporate creative activities like drawing or digital storyboards for engagement.
What challenges do the main characters face in 'When You Trap a Tiger'?
In When You Trap a Tiger, main characters face challenges such as family changes, cultural identity, and magical realism. Exploring these challenges through a character map helps students understand character motivation and growth.
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