Characters have feelings and wishes — Literature, 4–6 years
We understand a story by noticing what its characters feel, want and choose to do. Literature, 4–6 years.
Meet the character
A character is someone or something the story follows, such as a girl, a bear or a talking spoon. Characters can feel worried, proud, lonely or glad, and their feelings help explain what they do next.
Why notice feelings?
A character’s wish creates a reason for the story to move. If the bear wants a friend, we understand why it leaves its cave; if it is frightened, we understand why it hides. Feelings turn separate actions into a connected tale.
Reading a character’s choice
Mia sees a kitten under a bench. First, she looks worried because it is alone; next, she puts down her snack and calls gently; finally, the kitten comes closer. Her worry and wish to help explain each choice.
One face does not tell everything
We may decide that a character is angry because its eyebrows look tight. That is a sensible first guess, but it might be concentrating, scared or trying not to cry. Look at the words, actions and what happened before deciding.
Understanding people in stories
When you notice what a story character wants, you can talk about why a friend in a tale shares, hides or says sorry. This does not tell you exactly what a real person feels, but it gives you a careful question to ask and discuss.
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