Learning Objectives
By the end of this week, you will be able to:
- Create complex, believable characters with depth and motivation.
- Use various techniques to reveal character traits and development.
- Show character growth and change throughout a narrative.
Topic Introduction
Characterisation is the process of creating and developing characters that feel real and engaging to readers. Effective characterisation involves showing characters through their actions, dialogue, thoughts, and interactions with others, rather than simply telling readers about them. Well-developed characters have clear motivations, flaws, strengths, and undergo meaningful growth throughout the story.
In-Class Activities
- Analyse characterisation techniques in model texts and identify methods used.
- Create character profiles with backgrounds, motivations, and personality traits.
- Practice showing vs telling in character descriptions.
- Write dialogue that reveals character personality and relationships.
Homework Assignments
- Create a detailed character profile for a main character in a story.
- Write a scene showing the character in action, revealing their personality through dialogue and behaviour.
- Include at least three different characterisation techniques.
Assessment Details
This week's assessment focuses on your ability to create and develop complex characters in narrative writing.
Assessment Questions
- Create a character profile including background, personality, and motivations.
- Write a 300-word scene that reveals the character's personality through actions and dialogue.
- Explain how your characterisation techniques make the character believable.
Show, don't tell: Use actions, dialogue, and thoughts to reveal character traits.
Character development: Show how characters change and grow throughout the story.
Consistency: Ensure character actions and decisions align with their established personality.
If you have completed the assessment and would like to request solutions, please use this link: Solution Link.