Creative Character Portraits

Lesson Overview

Grade Level: 6th Grade
Subject: English
Duration: 40 minutes
Topic: Art Assignment for Part One of the book "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio
CA Education Standards:

• Reading: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.3: Describe how a particular story's or drama's plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution.
• Writing: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.3.D: Use precise words and phrases, relevant descriptive details, and sensory language to convey experiences and events.

Lesson Objectives

• Students will explore character development through creative means.
• Students will create character portraits based on textual evidence and personal interpretation.
• Students will enhance comprehension of key themes and character motivations from Part One of "Wonder."

Materials Needed

• Copies of "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio (one per student)
• Large sheets of drawing paper (one per student)
• Colored pencils, markers, or crayons
• Character Trait List for "Wonder" (handout)
• Sticky notes

Lesson Plan

Introduction (5 minutes)

Objective: Introduce the activity and set the purpose.

1. Begin by discussing the key themes of "Wonder," focusing on empathy, kindness, and acceptance.
2. Ask students to recall their favourite character from Part One and a specific event involving this character.
3. Explain that today, they will create a visual representation of a character through art, capturing both physical traits and personality based on evidence from the text.

Activity Instructions (10 minutes)

Objective: Explain the task and provide guidelines.

1. Distribute the Character Trait List handout.
2. Explain how to choose a character from Part One and list five traits or moments that are important to them.
3. Prompt students to think about how the character’s traits and actions can be represented visually.

Art Activity (20 minutes)

Objective: Students create a visual portrait of their chosen character.

1. Each student selects a character from Part One of "Wonder."

2. Using the drawing materials, they will:

   • Draw the character, incorporating elements that symbolize the character's personality traits and pivotal moments.
   • Include quotes or phrases from the book on their artwork to highlight these traits.
   • Add a short, written explanation on the back detailing the choices made in their artwork and how it reflects the character.

3. Encourage creativity—students should feel free to incorporate abstract elements or symbols that resonate with the character.

Conclusion and Sharing (5 minutes)

Objective: Reflect on the artistic process and share insights.

1. Ask students to place their drawings around the classroom.
2. Conduct a gallery walk where students can silently view each other’s work.
3. Hand out sticky notes for students to leave positive feedback on at least two other artworks.
4. Briefly discuss with the class how this art assignment helped deepen their understanding of the characters.

Assessment

• Participation: Engagement with the creative process during the art activity.
• Artwork: Creativity and accuracy in the portrayal of the character using text evidence.
• Reflection: Quality of the written explanation and peer feedback provided.

Extensions

• Homework: Ask students to write a diary entry from the perspective of their chosen character, using knowledge from their portrait creation.
• Creative Writing: Encourage students to imagine a future scene for their character, considering how Part One lays the foundation for their arc.

This lesson plan combines art with literary analysis to foster a deeper connection with the text while encouraging creative expression. The integration of art into the literary curriculum not only aligns with the standards but also enriches the students' appreciation and understanding of character development.