Dear Friends:

As of Fall 2004 the Greater Phoenix Area Writing Project has been discontinued. This website will be maintained for a time on a limited basis for informational purposes and so that you are able to access the resources provided. All the best to you in your teaching.

GPAWP 2003 Summer Institute
Web Diary

"Creating Believable Characters"


"The Wizard of Oz" is available on Amazon.comBryan Gillis
Catalina Ventura School
Phoenix, AZ

Presentation Title:
"Creating Believable Characters"

Grade Level(s):
4-12

Book(s) used:
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

Other Resources:
Character Sketch Worksheet
(not currently available online)

Presentation Description:
Purpose: To emphasize the importance of creative believable characters in short story.

Set: Review of the elements of fiction. Use of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz to teach the elements of fiction. Use of Cooperative Learning activities to reinforce elements and build community. Discuss rules for character creation, types of characters, appropriate names, show not tell examples, etc.

Activity: Character Sketch -- give students plot situation, create a character by answers questions on sketch form.

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Updated: December 8, 2005