Characterization

Characterization

What a character says, thinks, and does

Characterization is what a character says, thinks, and does.

Authors write all kinds of different characters, but you can always figure out what kind of character you're looking at by analyzing what he or she says, does, and thinks.

Directions: Read the short character descriptions below. Then, use the graphic organizers to analyze each character.

Maynard was ready to go at the beginning of class. He had already written down the journal prompt before the second bell had rung. When Cassandra tried to ask him if he was going to Joey's party next weekend, he only shushed her, meaning he knew that there would be time to talk about it during lunch or after school.

“I'm looking forward to it,” he thought, “especially because Daria will be there.” A small, shy smile crept onto his face as he began to respond to the journal prompt: “write an imaginary conversation you would like to have with someone you're afraid to talk to.” He thought this might help him prepare for his encounter with Daria at Joey's party.

What the character says, thinks or does	What this says about the character	One or two words that sum it up
He's ready for class before the bell rings	He cares about his education, and shows it by being prepared	- prepared - cares about the future

Osa was late to class, as usual. He barged in, talking loudly and high-fiving his friends when he should have taken a seat quietly.

“Osa, sit down and take out your journal. Stop talking; you're already late,” scolded the teacher.

“Oh, my fault,” said Osa, as he dragged his chair across the floor and slammed his backpack loudly on his desk.

“Yo, I need a pencil,” he announced to the class. The teacher shook her head in dismay, as Osa was once again unprepared to learn. Just as Osa took out his journal, and finally wrote down the prompt, the lesson was about to begin.

What the character says, thinks or does	What this says about the character	One or two words that sum it up