Ask students to create a story map to show the perspectives of each of the characters in a story they are reading. Place the Story title in the center of the map and then draw connected circles around the title with one circle representing each of the major characters. Ask students to list the character’s name at the top of the circle and to then write an entry about the story from the character’s viewpoint. Each entry should start with “I think” or “I feel” and should help clarify the perspectives or major concerns of the character. Once students have completed character perspective bubbles for all of the major characters, have students share their maps and their perspective bubbles to see how they compare. Students will enjoy the activity and will have greater insights into the characters in the story or novel they are reading.
Helping Teachers Improve Literacy Instruction and Teach Students to Read