Literary Circles:  Characterization

Objective:  To develop a deeper understanding of the specific characteristics, traits, and motivation of one or more of the central characters of the novel. 

Procedure:  As a group, make a list of the central characters introduced thus far.  Discuss each character briefly, outlining their characteristics and influence upon the plot.  Next, choose one character that your group would like to study more deeply. 

Once you have chosen one character, each group member should take a moment to write down five words that pop in your head when you think of this character.  These words may concern physical appearance, personality traits, relation to other characters, character’s interests/passions, or any other topic that comes to mind.  As soon as each group member has five descriptive words, make a master list of all the words used to describe this character.

Now your true task begins.  Your group’s responsibility is to write a back story (imaginary flashback) regarding a specific incident in your character’s life that happened before the plot of the novel begins.   You will be making this story up out of your own imaginations, but should use details from the novel to supplement your story. 

Some ideas to think about: 

When did the story you’re writing happen?  Is it a childhood story?  Did it occur directly before the novel begins?  Are other characters in the novel included/involved with the story?  What links/hints about this incident can you find in the text? 

Requirements:

• Story must have a beginning, middle and end,
• Story must include a conflict
• Story must include and focus on one character from the novel (however, you may choose to include other characters as well)
• Must be 1-2 pages

Must have a handwritten rough draft that is completed during class period, as well as a word-processed final copy (typed by recorder or other group member) next class period