By Beth at the Southern Schoolhouse

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you.

“The main character is NICE….” How many times have you received that response to a question about the main character of a text you are reading?

Nice, mean, happy … those penny words that every upper elementary student wants to use to describe everything.  So how do we get them to think deeper and express themselves in a more descriptive, detailed way?

  1.  Building a strong vocabulary is key and takes intentional, explicit teaching.  At the very beginning of the year we begin creating a word list in our interactive notebooks of strong words.  Vocabulary instruction is also part of our daily routine in our ELA block.
  2. Direct instruction and practice on analyzing characters in a text is crucial. Looking at characters’ thoughts, feelings and actions, and what those things tell us about the character helps students to think more deeply.  
  3. Using literature with strong characters as examples and guided practice is key.  Modeling, partner talk, marking up our text and work in our interactive notebooks helps students to build a stronger understanding of character development in the text we are reading.

Here are some of my favorite texts, with strong characters, that are great to use when teaching character analysis.  I included a range of levels –  picture books to easy chapter books to higher level books for upper elementary:

Top 5 Peer Connection Ideas to Kick Off the School Year

Starting the year with peer connection activities helps students feel seen, valued, and part of a…

Amazing Organizational Hallway and Entry Ideas from our Brand Inspiration

One thing I have learned as a mama living in a smaller space with a larger family is that you cannot…

Everyday Teacher Style That Starts the Year Strong

Back-to-school season is around the corner, and we’re sharing easy, stylish teacher outfit ideas to…

Closet Project – More Than Just Organization!

Summer is the season when teachers finally get the chance to catch up on all the “life” stuff that…

Impact-Site-Verification: 459475c6-d1a2-4200-bb5f-535e513feb9e Laundry Room at the Southern Schoolhouse; Wash, Dry, Fold, Repeat

Step inside the Southern Schoolhouse for laundry room inspiration full of vintage charm and…

New Year, New Reads: Back-to-School Picks for K–5

The first day of school brings big emotions, excitement, nerves, and everything in between. Whether…

Kindergarten, Here We Come! Tips for Parents

I still remember the day my oldest, Kayla, started kindergarten. I had packed her little backpack…

Greatest Tote Ever! Bogg Bag and Accessories for Teachers

The Bogg Bag is a stylish, durable, and washable tote made for life on the go…

Greatest Tote Ever! Bogg Bag and Accessories for Families

The Bogg Bag is a stylish, durable, and washable tote made for life on the go…