Characterization

Definitions

100

What is characterization?

A method authors use to show readers what a character’s personality is like.

                                                       

    

cter’s personality is like.

                                                       

    

200

What do character traits show?

A character's inner qualities.

300

What do physical characteristics tell about a character?

Their appearance. 

400

Direct characterization is when an author uses

                                                       

    

Narration that directly describes the character

500

What does an author do when they use indirect characterization?

Shows character traits without saying them outright. 

Direct Characterization

100

Susie was was afraid to start at her new school because she did not know anyone. 

afraid

200

Tasha received her acceptance letter into college and was so excited that she started to scream. 

excited

300

Paul tried to learn his vocabulary words. He studied every night, but still didn't pass the quiz. He was feeling very defeated and did not want to keep trying. 

defeated

400

Adam was feeling very frustrated when he kept interviewing for jobs, but no one would help him. His brother wanted to make him feel better, so he thoughtfully bought him his favorite candy to cheer him up. 

Adam: frustrated

Brother: thoughtful

500

My little sister whines all the time when she doesn't get her way, and it is so annoying. I couldn't take it anymore, so I did the mean thing and laughed when she tripped down the stairs.

Little sister: annoying

I: mean

Indirect Characterization

100

Haley was very busy, but she still took the time to shovel her elderly neighbor's driveway. 

helpful

200

Taylor got lost in the mall and was crying while she ran from store to store to try to find her mom.

Scared

300

Brian laid around the apartment all day and didn't go to his classes. He made some dinner and left all the dishes for his roommate to clean up. 

Lazy

400

Isaiah wanted to get the highest GPA in his grade, but was struggling to get his art grade up. When Hannah stated showing off her perfect 4.0, Isaiah began to spread rumors that she had cheated. Hannah got upset and called him an idiot and made fun of him in front of the entire class. 

Isaiah: jealous

Hannah: rude

500

Jaime was talking behind Heather's back. Heather knew Jaime couldn't be trusted, so she started a fight to get her back and slapped her in the face.

Jaime: untrustworthy

Heather: violent, angry