Captivating Characters

Read and respond to the fantasy literature, comparing and contrasting characters by building your own 3-dimensional models.

• 1.

  Identify the characteristics of fantasy literature. Read a variety of fantasy books. Share your responses in book groups and informal discussions.

• 2.

  Reread texts to find quotes from favorite characters. Record quotes that exemplify characters from a variety of books.

• 3.

  Create 3-dimensional Crayola® Model Magic models of your favorite characters, drawing from several pieces of fantasy literature or from one book or author. Use author descriptions to trigger your own imagined concept of each character. Shape Model Magic with simple tools, such as plastic forks, toothpicks, and Crayola Scissors.

• 4.

  Build arms and other features by pressing Model Magic around drinking straws cut to size. Add fine details after major construction is completed.

• 5.

  Texturize slightly stiffened Model Magic with tools such as combs or sandpaper. Dry.

• 6.

  Use Crayola Washable Watercolors and Watercolor Brushes to add color. Dry.

• 7.

  Share figures while engaging in comparison/contrast character discussions. Reenact portions of the story to reveal character traits. Use quotes and author descriptions to support your ideas.

Benefits

• Students read and respond to the literary genre of fantasy, selecting books suitable for their reading level and maturity.
• Students create 3-dimensional models of their favorite characters.
• Students use their models to reenact stories and to compare and contrast characterization.

Adaptations

• Use characters to act out new fantasy scenes in the style of a particular author. Write the scene, including characterization, setting, plot, theme, point of view, tone, and style similar to that of a favorite author.
• Create sets in which to reenact your fantasy scenes. Use shoe boxes, blocks, recycled wood, or other materials to create a diorama representing the story setting.
• Make fantasy literature trivia board games using the modeled figures as game pieces and to accentuate the game board. Compose questions about books, authors, literary elements, and characters on cards. Design the game on poster board using Crayola Markers. Incorporate a spinner or make your own dice from folded paper or Model Magic.