Characterization Techniques: Direct vs Indirect

This lesson covers characterization, focusing on direct and indirect methods. Direct characterization involves the author explicitly describing a character's traits, while indirect characterization uses the STEAL method: Speech, Thoughts, Effect on others, Actions, and Looks. Students learn to analyze characters by observing these aspects, enhancing their understanding of character development in literature.

What should you do at the beginning of the lesson on characterization?

• Write an essay

• Start reading a book

• Take out your notebook and a writing utensil

• Watch a movie

What is the main focus of direct characterization?

• Showing the character's actions

• Revealing the character's thoughts

• Telling the audience directly about the character's personality

• Describing the character's looks

Which of the following is an example of direct characterization?

• The boy wished it would stop raining.

• The little girl left the game with slumped shoulders.

• The girl tried to run over wildlife with her lawnmower.

• The patient boy and the quiet girl were both at the game.

What does indirect characterization involve?

• Describing the setting in detail

• Explaining the plot of the story

• Showing things that reveal the character's personality

• Directly telling the audience about the character

What does the 'S' in the STEAL method stand for?

• Style

• Speech

• Setting

• Situation

How can a character's thoughts reveal their personality?

• Through their speech

• Through their actions

• Through their feelings and internal monologue

• Through their looks

What question should you ask to analyze a character's effect on others?

• How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to that character?

• What does the character look like?

• What are the character's thoughts?

• What does the character say?

Which of the following is an example of analyzing a character's actions?

• The girl tried to run over wildlife with her lawnmower.

• The boy wished it would stop raining.

• The students always left his class crying.

• The little girl left the game with slumped shoulders.

What can a character's looks tell us about them?

• Their thoughts and feelings

• Their actions

• Their emotional state and personality

• Their speech

What is the main difference between direct and indirect characterization?

• Indirect characterization is less important than direct.

• Direct characterization is more detailed than indirect.

• Direct characterization involves telling, while indirect involves showing.

• Direct characterization involves showing, while indirect involves telling.