Character Analysis- Facing Fears

Introduction

by Mary Nafus, South Scranton Intermediate School

Attention, Grade 6 readers! We read three different stories from the Collections textbook that have a common theme: Fear.  

We learned that characters are just one important element found in all types of fiction.  The authors created rich characters for us to get to know.  

We cited evidence including character dialogue and actions to determine the character traits that suited each character.

In this webquest, you are going to get to know the story characters even better by finding out more about the fears they faced.    

Task

Your job for this project is to complete a character portfolio.  

You may choose one of the characters from the following list:

Vinny; The Ravine

Rey; from The Jumping Tree

Bailey; Fine?

The character portfolio should have a cover that identifies the character's name and story title.  The completed "My Character" graphic organizer, and "My Character Chart" should be inside the portfolio.  Your name, reading class period, and date should be on the back cover of the portfolio.

Your goal is to earn a Proficient or Advanced Effort Score based on the evaluation rubric provided for this project.  

   

Process

Step 1)

After you have selected a character from one of the passages, complete the "My Character" graphic organizer.

Step 2)

Read some information about fears and phobias by checking out the following websites:

http://www.fearof.net

http://kidshealth.org

Step 3) 

Complete the "My Character Chart".  Incorporate the knowledge that you have gained about fears with the information in the passages to respond:

Group A- these answers, written in complete sentences and supported with evidence, are worth 5 points each:

  • describe the character's phobia or fear?
  • did your character have a common or unusual fear for someone with the same characteristics? age, gender, history...
  • what information did you find in the story about the cause of your character's fear?

Group B- these responses, written in complete sentences and answered in detail, are worth 10 points each:

  • describe how the fear(s) created conflict in your character's life.
  • explain how the fear created conflict in your character's relationship with other characters?
  • explain how the fear created conflict for your character in the setting?
  • write an alternative plot for the story if the fear did not exist?

Evaluation

My Character Chart Question # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Points Possible 5 5 5 10 10 10 10
Points Achieved __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Circle or cross off each question on the rubric as you complete your answer.

Remember your goal is to earn a Proficient or Advanced score for your effort.

Advanced Score Proficient Score Satisfactory Score Unsatisfactory Score
40-50 points earned 30-39 points earned 20-29 points earned 19 points or less earned

Credits

Passages  for this lesson found in the 2017 Houghton Mifflin Harcourt reading series Collections Textbook and Close Reader ( Grade 6)Collections  Student Edition Grade 6-9780544569492

Teacher Page

PA Standards:

CC.1.3.6.C:Describe how the plot of a particular story, drama, or poem unfolds, as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution.