Unit 2: Understanding Characters
Students will be able to:
Connect to characters:
- Envision so they can learn about the characters in the stories they read
- Create theories about what the characters are really like in the stories they read
- Empathize with characters by connecting with their own experiences
- Notice details to help them better understand their characters
- Use their empathy for characters to make predictions
- Not only predict what will happen, but how it will happen in their stories
- Notice and reflect on places in their stories that evoke strong emotion
Grow theories about their characters:
- Look for patterns in a character's behavior to grow a theory about the character
- Revise their theories about characters as they continue to read
- Notice when characters act in surprising ways
Learn how stories relate to their own lives:
- Understand that characters face challenges that become turning points
- Understand that characters have what it takes to overcome challenges
- Understand that secondary characters often teach the main character something
- Learn vicariously alongside the characters in stories
- Celebrate the characters in their books and the lessons these characters have learned that apply to their own lives