1. Creating Characters
Characterization

2. Write Now!
Think about a person you know well (friend
or family member) and write an honest
description of that person. Think of all of
the things (the way they look, talk, act, etc.)
that make them who they are.
Try to write for 5 min without stopping!
Don’t put your journals up when you are
done!

3. What is Characterization?
The process by which the
writer reveals the personality
of the character

4. Think, Pair, Share!
 First, in 2 min, list everything you know about
characterization. Examples from Wonder are encouraged!
 Hint #1: there are two types of characterization. What are
they?
 Hint #2: S.T.E.A.L.

5. Think, Pair, Share
 Next, spend 2 minutes copying down what your partner
knew about characterization that you didn’t have listed
 Spend 3 minutes writing a list summarizing what you both
know about Characterization

6. The Elevator
 Pretend you are in an elevator. Imagine another person
steps on to the elevator. Describe that person using direct
and/or indirect characterization. Remember to use
S.T.E.A.L.
 Now, switch places. Imagine you are the person who you
just described and YOU step onto the elevator. Describe
yourself the way your imagined character might describe
you!

7. Journals: Revision!
 Re-visit your character profile and make changes to
improve your characterization technique.
 How can you re-write your profile to make it
better?
 What revisions can you make to improve your
characterization?
 How could you make your description more
interesting or vibrant for a reader?