Indirect/ Direct characterization

Front

What is Direct Characterization?

Back

Direct Characterization is when the author explicitly describes a character's traits or qualities.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

What is Indirect Characterization?

Back

Indirect Characterization is when the author reveals a character's traits through their actions, speech, thoughts, and interactions with others.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

Example of Direct Characterization: 'Maddie was shy.' What does this tell us?

Back

This tells us directly that Maddie has a shy personality.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

Example of Indirect Characterization: 'Maddie rolled her eyes and walked away.' What can we infer?

Back

We can infer that Maddie is dismissive or uninterested in the conversation.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

What trait is shown through actions? 'He helped the old lady cross the street.'

Back

This action suggests that the character is kind.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

What trait is shown through dialogue? 'I don't care about your problems!' What does this indicate?

Back

This indicates that the character may be selfish or uncaring.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

Front

What does it mean if a character is described as 'a kindhearted soul'?

Back

This is an example of Direct Characterization, directly stating the character's kindness.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

If a character is always smiling and helping others, what can we infer about them?

Back

We can infer that they are likely friendly and caring, which is Indirect Characterization.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

What is the difference between showing and telling in characterization?

Back

Showing involves actions and dialogue (Indirect Characterization), while telling involves direct statements about the character (Direct Characterization).

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Front

Why is Indirect Characterization important in storytelling?

Back

It allows readers to infer traits and engage more deeply with the character's development.