Building Character Traits Using Physical Body Movements

Grade 2 · ELA · 45 minutes

Objective

Students will identify and demonstrate character traits through physical movements and create trait cards.

Materials

• index cards
• markers
• chart paper
• tape
• scissors

Hook

Students will stand up and show how a brave character might walk across the room, then demonstrate how a scared character would move differently.

Main Activity

Students work in pairs to create character trait cards by writing one trait word and drawing a simple picture on each index card. They then take turns acting out their character traits using only body movements and facial expressions while their partner guesses the trait. After practicing, pairs demonstrate their favorite trait movements to the class. The class works together to tape all the trait cards onto a large chart paper to create a classroom character traits reference wall.

Discussion Questions

1. How did your body movements help show the character trait?
2. Which character traits were easiest to act out with your body?
3. How do authors show character traits in books without using movements?
4. What character traits would make a good friend?
5. How can we tell what a character is like by watching their actions?

Exit Ticket

Draw a picture of yourself showing one character trait and write the trait word below your picture.

Differentiation

Support: Provide pre-written trait cards with pictures for students to choose from and act out rather than creating their own.

Extension: Have students create trait cards for character pairs that are opposites and explain how the movements would be different for each trait.