Characterization

Why is it important to understand characterization and to analyze character traits when you are reading?

• When you are able to identify a character’s traits, you are able to understand their actions and motives.
• You can make predictions about how a character will react to different situations.
• Understanding the character gives you an understanding of the story.
  
• All of the above

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Which of the following is an example of direct characterization?

• He tapped his foot anxiously.
• "I wouldn't  trust that man," said Ma.
• Frank was a shy, quiet person.
• Every time he earned a high grade, he would hang the test on his wall.

If the author shows you what the character is like and you have to infer, that is

• direct characterization
• indirect characterization

Which of the following is an example of indirect characterization?

• Marcia was a good listener and wonderful friend.
• Marcia felt the knot in her stomach grow when she saw the number of questions on the test, and she tugged her hair anxiously. 
• Marcia was a nervous person.
• Marcia was an optimist who always believed the best about people.

What does STEAL stand for when thinking about characterization?

• Taking things that don't belong to you.
• Direct Characterization
• Speech, thoughts, everyone, actions, lies
• Speech,thoughts, effect on others, actions, looks

"Jeremy looked like a rock star.  He was really tall with perfect blonde hair, ice blue eyes, and this sullen look that drove the girls crazy."

• Direct Characterization
• Indirect Characterization
• Both

How does the author reveal the character's traits?
Mr. Timpelton walked through the airport in his crisp army uniform and duffel bag.  After being deployed for a year in Iraq, he was anxious to see is family.  He wiped his hands nervously on his pants, breathed a deep sigh, and begin to head to the airport welcoming area.

• actions
• thoughts
• statements
• interactions with other characters

Read the following passage from a story: 
Mercy snorted. She should have known better than to challenge Victoria. Of all Mercy's friends, Victoria talked loudest, ran fastest, and took the most risks. She bragged about the time she convinced her older brothers to spend a weekend building her a fort. Mercy liked to call Victoria "Buster". "Because you are always busting things up," she laughed. Victoria wore the nickname with pride. 
Based on the passage, which of the following is one of Victoria's traits?

• forgetful
• confused
• bold
• shy

 Carson's sister, who he looks up to, had an art show coming up. The week before show, she told Carson not to go into her room and peek at her project. Carson followed her rules and didn’t try to go in. “I hope it’s a painting of me!” thought Carson.
What evidence can you use to support the fact that Carson is “respectful”?

• Carson's sister has an art show coming up.
• Carson's sister told him not to peek at her project.
• Carson followed his sister's rules and didn't go into her room.
• Carson hoped the art project was a painting of him.

Read the following passage.
“We did it! We did it! We did it!” Mei boasted, slapping her hand against the table, scattering toast crumbs, knocking aside teaspoons and almost smearing the butter in her zeal.
     “Whoa!” her brother exclaimed, startled. “Well, congratulations!”
      Mei stood up and triumphantly strutted around the kitchen, transforming her walk around the breakfast table into a victory parade.
      Her brother laughed, surprised and amused. “Who are you, and what have you done with my sister, Mei?” he teased.
Based on the passage, what can you infer about the main character Mei?

• Mei is always outgoing and loud.
• Mei is timid.
• Mei is not very athletic.
• Mei is not usually so boastful and energetic.

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RI.8.1

CCSS.RL.6.1

CCSS.RL.8.1