Character Analysis: Stella

Lesson Overview

Students will explore the character Stella from The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate. Through close reading, discussion, and comparison with Ivan, students will analyze character traits, motivations, and relationships. This lesson emphasizes deepening comprehension and critical thinking aligned with Common Core standards.

---

Standards Alignment

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.3
Describe in depth a character, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character’s thoughts, words, or actions).

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.9
Compare and contrast the treatment of similar themes and topics (e.g., opposition of good and evil) and patterns of events (e.g., the quest) in stories, myths, and traditional literature from different cultures.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.4.1
Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 4 topics and texts.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.8
Recall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; take notes and categorize information, and provide a list of sources.

---

Learning Objectives

• I can describe Stella’s character traits using evidence from the text.
• I can compare and contrast Stella and Ivan by identifying similarities and differences.
• I can participate in discussions to share insights about characters.
• I can organize my thoughts in a Venn diagram to show character comparison.

---

Success Criteria

• I give at least two specific examples from the text that show Stella’s character traits.
• I explain at least two similarities and two differences between Stella and Ivan.
• I listen respectfully and respond thoughtfully to my classmates' ideas.
• I complete a clear, organized Venn diagram comparing Stella and Ivan.

---

Materials Needed

• Copies of The One and Only Ivan, chapters about Stella (fiction excerpts)
• Character Traits Chart handout
• Venn diagram templates
• Whiteboard and markers
• Sticky notes
• Chart paper
• Student notebooks/journals

---

Lesson Timeline

1. Opening (5 minutes)

• Activate Prior Knowledge:
  Briefly review Ivan’s character traits discussed in previous lessons.
• I Can Statement Introduction:
  Write and read aloud: “I can describe Stella’s character traits and compare her to Ivan.”
• Success Criteria Share:
  Highlight what students will be able to do by lesson’s end.

---

2. Guided Reading and Annotation (15 minutes)

• Read Aloud/Partner Reading:
  Teacher reads aloud or students read selected passages focusing on Stella’s actions, words, and feelings.
• Annotation Activity:
  Students use sticky notes to mark text that reveals Stella’s traits (e.g., kind, protective).
• Modeling:
  Teacher models identifying evidence by thinking aloud about Stella’s actions and motivations.

---

3. Character Traits Chart (8 minutes)

• Students complete a Character Traits Chart for Stella, listing traits and citing text evidence.
• Teacher circulates, providing scaffolding for students who need support.

---

4. Venn Diagram Comparison (10 minutes)

• Group Activity:
  In pairs, students fill out a Venn diagram comparing Stella and Ivan focusing on traits, actions, and roles.
• Teacher guides students to think about similarities (e.g., caring, protective) and differences (e.g., role in the story, personality).
• Groups share their diagrams with the class; teacher records key points on chart paper.

---

5. Closing and Reflection (7 minutes)

• Class Discussion:
  Reflect on why understanding Stella’s character helps us understand the story better.
• Exit Ticket Writing Prompt:
  “Describe one way Stella is like Ivan and one way she is different. Use details from the story.”
  Students write brief responses in their notebooks or on index cards.

---

Differentiation Strategies

• For Struggling Learners:
  Provide a partially filled Character Traits Chart and sentence starters to scaffold writing.
  Partner students strategically for reading and discussion.
• For English Language Learners (ELLs):
  Use visuals and gestures to demonstrate character traits.
  Provide vocabulary cards with definitions for words like "protective," "compassionate."
• For Advanced Learners:
  Challenge to write a short paragraph analyzing how Stella’s traits influence the story’s theme.
  Encourage students to find textual evidence beyond the assigned passages.

---

Extension Activities

• Creative Writing:
  Write a diary entry from Stella’s perspective reflecting on her relationship with Ivan.
• Art Connection:
  Create a character collage using magazine cut-outs and words that represent Stella’s traits.
• Compare Multiple Characters:
  Add Ruby to the Venn diagram and discuss three-way comparison of Stella, Ivan, and Ruby.

---

Assessment

• Informal: Monitor participation during discussions and group work.
• Formal: Evaluate Character Traits Chart, Venn diagram completeness and accuracy, and exit tickets for understanding.

---

Teacher Reflection (Post-Lesson Notes)

• Were students able to cite text evidence independently?
• Did pairs effectively collaborate during the Venn diagram activity?
• What adjustments might better support struggling readers next time?
• Which extension activities were most engaging and could be integrated regularly?

---

This engaging and collaborative lesson ensures students build critical thinking skills about characters while meeting Common Core standards, leaving them ready for deeper analysis in upcoming lessons about The One and Only Ivan.