This activity allows for a more in-depth look at one or more Fantastic Mr. Fox characters, with a focus on character traits. Students should provide textual evidence to support the character trait they choose. Students can support their ideas with dialogue, thoughts, or actions of the character they are portraying. Here is an example of a character trait storyboard using Storyboard That's T-Chart layout. This example features two character traits for Mr. Fox, but students could also put multiple characters across the top of the chart and provide evidence for character traits of each.
Possible character traits for characters in Fantastic Mr. Fox:
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that shows character traits for one of the characters from Fantastic Mr. Fox.
Start the lesson by exploring character traits. Initiate a class discussion about the concept, using examples from "Fantastic Mr. Fox" and real-life scenarios. This will set the foundation for the students to understand and identify traits in characters.
Assign specific sections or chapters from "Fantastic Mr. Fox" for the students to read. After reading, ask them to identify and list the traits of various characters from the story. This step is crucial for students to connect the theoretical understanding of character traits with practical examples from the text.
Students then move on to illustrating these traits. They can choose their preferred method of illustration, whether it's drawing, using digital tools, or creating a collage. Encourage them to be as creative as possible, visually representing the traits they've identified in the characters.
Finally, students write short descriptions or narratives incorporating the traits they've illustrated. This step is key to developing their language skills, as they articulate their understanding of the character traits in written form. Conclude the activity with students presenting their illustrations and writings to the class, fostering a sense of accomplishment and shared learning.
To illustrate character traits effectively, a blend of visual symbolism, annotations, and direct references from the text is key. Visual symbolism involves using images or icons that represent a character's traits—like a sly fox for cunning or a heart for kindness. Annotations, such as brief labels or captions, can provide context to the illustrations, explaining why a particular symbol or image represents a trait. Direct references from the book, including quotes or specific scenes, strengthen the connection between the illustration and the character’s traits. This approach not only enhances artistic creativity but also ensures a deeper textual understanding.
Worksheets that are most effective for analyzing character development typically include character profile templates, comparison charts, and reflection questions. Character profile templates allow students to document different traits, changes, and growth of characters like Mr. Fox over the course of the story. Comparison charts can be used to track and compare the development of multiple characters, providing a clear visual representation of their journeys. Reflection questions prompt deeper thinking about how and why characters change, encouraging students to engage critically with the narrative and character arcs.
Storyboards are an excellent tool for comparing characters within "Fantastic Mr. Fox." They allow students to visually layout key moments or scenes where characters’ traits are evident. By placing character depictions side by side in different panels, students can directly compare their actions, decisions, and changes throughout the story. This visual juxtaposition can be particularly effective in highlighting contrasts or similarities in characters’ behaviors or roles. Annotations or captions in the storyboard panels can further elaborate on these comparisons, offering insights into how each character contributes to the story's themes and dynamics.