Character Motivation in Literature

Equipment list

  • Copies of the selected literary text or excerpt

  • Labels or posters for classroom corners (Ambition, Guilt, Fear, Pride)

  • Sticky notes or notepads for student notes (optional)

Explanation

  1. Label the four corners of your classroom:

  • Ambition

  • Guilt

  • Fear

  • Pride

2. Read a key quote or decision made by a central character aloud.

3. Ask students:
“What motivated this character’s decision? Pick the primary motivator.”

4. Students walk to the corner that represents the motivation they believe fits best.

5. In their chosen corner, students discuss their reasoning using evidence from the text.

6. One spokesperson from each group presents their justification to the class.

Tip: Encourage students to listen respectfully and respond to different interpretations.

Variations

  • Add complexity: Include additional motivators like Love, Loyalty, or Revenge based on the text.

  • Silent corners: Let students write their reasoning before sharing aloud.

Progression

  • Begin with familiar characters to build confidence.

  • Progress to more ambiguous characters or morally complex decisions to deepen critical thinking.

  • Use this activity as a launchpad for analytical writing on character development or thematic exploration.

ASK ID 2025-04-30-006-E

Grade 11 - 12Gasta DesignEnglish Language Arts