Subject: Language Arts
Title: Characterization
by Sharon Hargis
Topic: Developing a Character
Grade Level: 5th – 12 grades

Objective: By using materials given, student will develop a narrative describing their theory of a character.

Materials: Suitcase, Basket with large lid, Briefcase, Knapsack

Each of the above is stuffed with miscellaneous items to be used as clues for a ” mystery person”. (cosmetics, newspapers, magazines, airline tickets, photographs, music , grooming materials, keys, etc. )

Procedures: Groups of four Each group is given one of the belongings of a mystery person. They go through every item and make a list of their findings. Discussion follows for a theory of who the person might be, what their interests are, what’s going on in their life right now, etc. After the “character” is fully developed by the group, each student composes a written description of their person. This writing may be extended into a larger project, such as a complete narrative using the mystery as the main character.

Publishing: Each person reads their description/narrative to the group and a consensus is reached as to who the “mystery” person is.

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