This project combines writing, art and Heartwood to create an engaging character study.

Students create a paper character from a Heartwood story, write about his or her attributes, and present the information to the class. It can be done by individuals, partners, or small groups of students. Basic Objective Students will identify Heartwood attributes of a specific character and demonstrate their understanding of those attributes by giving examples and evidence in writing. Extended Objective Students will compare their character's attributes to those of another person in literature or real life. Levels Intermediate (grades 3,4,5)

Preparation and Materials

• Download the head template and glue to construction paper.
• 12" X 18" piece of construction paper
• scissors
• glue or tape
• crayons and markers
• stapler
• 8" X 5" lined writing paper
• Miscellaneous materials for hair and clothes---fabric or paper scraps, ribbon, buttons, wallpaper samples, yarn, foil, lace, felt, etc.

	1. Fold 12X18 construction paper into 8 equal sections.
	2. Cut out sections 5 and 8 to be used for the character's arms.
	3. Fold sections 1 and 4 toward the center and glue the arms (sections 5 and 8) to the back.
[back view]	4. Cut out the head shape and glue it to the back of sections 2 and 3.
[back view]	5. Draw a face, add hair, hands, feet, and "dress" the character using miscellaneous materials.

Writing

1. On the outside of the vest write the title and author of the book, the character's name, and the student's name.
2. Inside the vest, students write one or two paragraphs telling why they admire their character. Students identify and give examples of Heartwood attributes. (Stop here for basic objective.)
3. Students compare character's strengths to similar attributes of another person in real life or literature using examples of actions and dialogue.

1. whole class — In front of the class students read or tell about their character, using a microphone if possible.
2. peer response group — Students read their reports in groups of 4 or 5 students.
3. partners — Students read their book reports to each other.