The character report card is a shared experience between students and teachers. The activity allows students to identify character traits in others, both fictional and real. The report card encourages reflection through discussion and reasoning for a deeper, more personalized meaning and understanding of the core values. After several uses in the classroom, students begin to analyze characters as they read for their own enjoyment before they are given the character report card. Students are “trained” to look at characters through different eyes – eyes that can distinguish words and actions that promote good character and those that don’t. Through the character report card, core values become internalized as part of their education and part of their lives. Parents are also encouraged to generate conversations at home by asking their child such questions as, “Why did you give that character in your story such a high mark in respect?” or “If you were that character, what could you have done to show you are a responsible person?”
Students will analyze the actions/words of characters found in literature, history and core subject areas.
Students will determine a grade equivalent based on a character's demonstration and execution of specific character traits.
Students will compare and contrast fictional or historical characters' report card results to their own progress.
Students will reflect on a fictional or historical character’s progress and cite specific examples of how a character can improve in the future or describe what he did well.
Students will discuss the character development of a fictional or historical character in a small group or with a partner.
Students will dialogue with parents regarding the fictional or historical character they are studying and the character traits he/she possesses or lacks.
Core curriculum materials that include fictional/historical characters
Character report card/reflection sheet
Identify and teach the character traits/core values identified by your school learning community. Students should have a working knowledge and understanding of what each trait looks and sounds like in their classroom, school, community and beyond. Students should understand the purpose of a report card and how to score the different areas.
Class Meeting Discussion
Choose a fictional or historical figure from your curriculum to introduce. Model the report card to identify the grade you would give for each character trait and what feedback the character should receive. Teacher should “think aloud” in the beginning and then move to guided practice using partners or small groups, then move to independent practice.
Extensions and Adaptations
Parent/Home Connection: Character Conversations… Parents are also encouraged to generate conversations at home by asking their child such questions as, “Why did you give that character in your story such a high mark in respect?” or “If you were that character, what could you have done to show you are a responsible person?”