Lesson Plan

We've Got Character! Literary Analysis: Characterization

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

How authors bring characters to life and make them believable is the focus of a lesson on characterization. Readers closely examine passages from To Kill a Mockingbird and Dreamland Burning, noting details that reveal the character's appearance, thoughts and feelings, and hopes and dreams. Each class member then selects a character from the novel and fills out a graphic organizer that uses evidence from the story that shows how the writer uses details to bring the character to life.

13 Views 7 Downloads
CCSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • The lesson may be used with Dreamland Burning, To Kill a Mockingbird, or with any study of characterization
  • Use the PowerPoint to guide learners through the lesson
Classroom Considerations
  • Requires a projection device with internet for the slide show and the interview with author Jennifer Latham
Pros
  • Provides links that detail the various teaching techniques used in the lesson
  • Includes suggestions for how to use the materials with both middle and high school readers
  • Materials are available in Spanish and English
Cons
  • None
Common Core