lesson
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If an author never tells you that a character is brave, how can you figure it out on your own?
Great readers act like detectives, uncovering clues through a character's thoughts, words, and actions.
This technique is called indirect characterization, where authors show who someone is through clues instead of telling you directly.
This technique is known as indirect characterization, where authors show who someone is through clues instead of telling you directly.
📊Interactive diagram
Distinguishing traits from temporary feelings is essential: traits reflect enduring personality over time, while feelings are brief emotional reactions.
A character trait is a word that describes what someone is like all the time, such as caring, impatient, or brave.
Distinguishing traits from feelings is key: traits are enduring personality patterns, while feelings are temporary emotional reactions to specific events.
How do we collect these clues from a real passage? Let's follow a runner named Maya at her school track meet.
Investigating Maya
Analyzing thoughts focuses on a character's internal monologue—private reflections that reveal hidden fears, doubts, and true motivations.
Analyzing words involves examining dialogue and tone to uncover attitudes, social dynamics, and relationships.
Analyzing actions and decisions—especially under pressure—provides the clearest evidence of core values and character growth.