Description
This lesson introduces students to characterization in literature and helps them understand how authors develop characters through both description and action. Designed for middle school and high school ELA classrooms, this resource works well for direct instruction, guided practice, or review of literary elements.
Students learn through a PowerPoint notes presentation that clearly explains the different types of characters and the methods authors use to characterize them. The lesson defines direct characterization and indirect characterization, helping students recognize when an author tells readers about a character versus when traits are revealed through behavior, dialogue, and interactions.
The lesson also explores key character types, including static and dynamic characters, flat and round characters, and foil characters, giving students the language they need to discuss character development with precision. A student-friendly graphic organizer is included to support note-taking and help students organize definitions, examples, and observations.
This characterization lesson is ideal for short story units, novel studies, character analysis activities, or foundational literary instruction. It builds essential skills in literary analysis, close reading, and text-based discussion, making it a versatile addition to any ELA curriculum.