Main Character Journal
Here's What To Do
Staple a few sheets of paper together to create a journal about book characters.
Read a book that your child is familiar with. Explain what a main character is, and ask your child to identify the main character in this book. As you read, point out the important actions of the main character.
When you finish reading, ask your child to make a drawing of the main character in the journal. Ask them to tell you a few words that describe the character, and write them down on the drawing (or, invite your child to write the words if they'd like).
Keep the journal near your reading space. Add to the journal over time.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Settle into your special reading spot.
Engage:
- “What clues tell us who the main characters are in story books?”
- "Can you draw a picture of the main character? What are some important things to know about this character? I'll write down what you say on your portrait of the character?"
Encourage:
- Some books have multiple important characters. Help your child understand which characters are the main characters and why.
- Your child's drawing may not look very much like the book's illustrations. Cheer them on for their efforts in trying to draw the character as best they can.
Reflect:
- Once your child has added a few character portraits to the journal, ask them to identify their favorite main character and why.
Not quite ready?
Draw the main character's body for your child, and ask them to add details to the portrait.
Ready for more?
As your child creates an archive of book characters in the journal, discuss how the different characters are alike and different.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to identify main characters in books.