Character Traits and Characterization

Exploring Character Traits

Understanding the Qualities that Shape Characters

Learning Target: We are learning how to identy character traits.

Success Criteria

• I can define characterization

• I can determine the difference between direct and indirect characterization.

• I can analyze a character to determine its traits.

Characterization

is the way in which an author creates personality within characters.

Open Ended

Think about your favorite character from a book, movie, tv show, etc. Who is it?

Open Ended

Now what is that character's personality traits? List them below:

Open Ended

Think about the personality traits that you just listed. How did you come up with those? What certain parts of the show/book/movie portray those?

Direct Characterization

This is when the author gives us explicit details about a character. They DIRECTLY tell us about them. Ex, Sophie is angry, Katie has red hair, Dylan likes to go camping.

Indirect Characterization

The other type of direct characterization is indirect characterization. This is when the author gives us clues to the character's personality through their Speech, Thoughts, Effect on others, Actions, and Looks (STEAL).

Character traits refer to the inherent and enduring qualities that define an individual's personality, behavior, and moral values. These traits are the distinctive features that shape how a person thinks, feels, and acts in various situations.

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Responsible

Diligent

Adaptable

Generous

Grateful

Positive Character Traits

Patient

Tolerant

Humble

Cooperative

Loyal

Compassionate

Empathetic

Honest

Trustworthy

Optimistic

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Irresponsible

Lazy

Impulsive

Greedy

Envious

Intolerant

Vindictive

Moody

Manipulative

Condescending

Arrogant

Selfish

Dishonest

Stubborn

Pessimistic

Negative Character Traits

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Neutral Character Traits

Ambitious

Creative

Logical

Curious

Confident

Humorous

Cautious

Spontaneous

Open-minded

Assertive

Reserved

Observant

Analytical

Independent

Practical

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Stand Up: Stand up if one of these neutral traits speaks to your personality.

Observant

Creative

Spontaneous

Goal-Oriented

Independent

Resourceful

Humorous

Open-minded

Assertive

Curious

Logical

Confident

Optional: Share with a partner an example of one of these traits.

Match

Match the following

• Even though I'm in 9th grade,I plan to go to college, so I am doing my best to keep a good GPA.

• I always seek help from my teachers when I don't understand something in class.

• During my free time, I volunteer at the local community center to help younger students.

• I don't understand the Nation of Islam, but I won't discriminate against Muslims.

• I participate in study groups to enhance my learning experience.

Goal- Oriented

Resourceful

Compasionate

Open Minded

Collaborative

• Goal- Oriented

• Resourceful

• Compasionate

• Open Minded

• Collaborative

​Odysseus

​Character Analysis