Characterization Lesson

If the author directly tells you what the character is like, that is:

• direct characterization
• indirect characterization

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

• direct characterization
• indirect characterization

A character trait is an adjective that describes _________________.

• an emotion at a specific point in time
• personality
• appearance

Which is NOT a character trait?

• bossy
• scared
• responsible
• shy

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.

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.

Which of the following is an example of direct characterization?

• Jeff was compassionate when it came to taking care of his nephews.
• Jeff spoke gently to his nephews and catered to their needs.
• Jeff gave his nephews a big hug when he saw them.
• Jeff always asked about how his nephews were doing.

What type of characterization is the following example?
Brandon leaned back in his chair during the lecture.  He was bored with the classes discussion of rock formations.

• direct characterization
• indirect characterization

What type of character trait is revealed?
Sergeant Stone ran the tired boys around the wet field for the last lap.  Even though the boys were exhausted, he had them drop and do one hundred push-ups.

• responsible
• bossy
• stubborn
• tough

What type of characterization is the following example?
Shelly worked hard on Saturday.  She pulled the weeds, planted flowers, and cut the grass.

• direct characterization
• indirect characterization