English First Additional Language - Term 2 - Week 6

Character development refers to the process by which an author creates a believable and complex character. This can be achieved through various techniques such as dialogue, actions, and internal thoughts. Characters can be dynamic, changing throughout the story, or static, remaining the same. Understanding how these elements contribute to a character's development helps readers engage more deeply with the text.

Consider the character of Ponyboy Curtis from 'The Outsiders.' Ponyboy is introduced as a sensitive and introspective teenager. Through his internal monologues, we learn about his struggles with identity and belonging. His interactions with other characters, such as Johnny and Dally, further illustrate his growth as he learns about loyalty and friendship. By examining these aspects, we can see how Ponyboy evolves from a passive observer to an active participant in his life.

In pairs, choose a character from a text you have read this term. Discuss and list three key traits of this character. For each trait, provide an example from the text that illustrates this trait. After your discussion, share your findings with the class, focusing on how these traits contribute to the character's development and the overall story.

Write a short essay (300-400 words) analyzing the development of a character from a novel or short story you have studied. Discuss how the author uses dialogue, actions, and thoughts to reveal the character's traits and growth. Be sure to include specific examples from the text to support your analysis.

• The process of creating a plot
• The way authors create believable characters
• The setting of a story
• The theme of a literary work

Answer: The way authors create believable characters

Character development focuses on how authors craft characters to be realistic and relatable.

Answer: Dialogue and actions.

Authors often use dialogue to reveal a character's personality and actions to show their traits.

• Sherlock Holmes
• Jay Gatsby
• Ponyboy Curtis
• Hannibal Lecter

Answer: Ponyboy Curtis

Ponyboy Curtis undergoes significant growth and change throughout 'The Outsiders,' making him a dynamic character.

Answer: A static character does not change throughout the story, while a dynamic character undergoes significant growth or change.

Understanding this distinction helps readers analyze character arcs in literature.

• It provides background information.
• It reveals character traits and relationships.
• It sets the scene.
• It introduces the plot.

Answer: It reveals character traits and relationships.

Dialogue allows readers to see how characters interact and express themselves, which is crucial for understanding their development.

Answer: Bravery; it shows a character's willingness to face danger, which can drive the plot forward.

Character traits like bravery can significantly influence a character's decisions and the story's outcome.