1. Task 3: Name That Greaser
For each statement identify which character it is referring to:
A little dark puppy
Big black eyes
Cold with a hatred of the whole world
Wisecracker
Specialty was cars
Lively, dancing, recklessly laughing eyes
Eyes that are like two pieces of pale blue-green ice

2. Types of Characters People or animals Major characters
Minor characters
Round characters
Flat characters

3. Characterization
A writer reveals what a character is like and how the character changes throughout the story.
Two primary methods of characterization:
Direct- writer tells what the character is like
Indirect- writer shows what a character is like by describing what the character looks like, by telling what the character says and does, and by what other characters say about and do in response to the character.

4. Direct Characterization
…And I don’t play the dozens or believe in standing around with somebody in my face doing a lot of talking. I much rather just knock you down and take my chances even if I’m a little girl with skinny arms and a squeaky voice, which is how I got the name Squeaky.
From “Raymond’s Run” by T. Bambara

5. Indirect Characterization
The old man bowed to all of us in the room. Then he removed his hat and gloves, slowly and carefully. Chaplin once did that in a picture, in a bank--he was the janitor.
From “Gentleman of Rio en Medio” by J. Sedillo

6. Elements of Character

7. Factors in Analyzing Characters
Physical appearance of character
Personality
Background/personal history
Motivation
Relationships
Conflict
Does character change?

8. Characterization Activity
You will complete The Outsiders Character Chart for each character that is introduced in chapter 1—only those that were mentioned in chapter 1.
In the “Gang” section, indicate whether he or she is a “Greaser,” a “Soc,” or neither.

9. Characterization Activity
In the “Physical Appearance” section, use textual evidence—quotes—from the book that describe the character (include page numbers).
In the “Mannerisms/Significant Actions” section, once again use quotes from the book that describe the character (include page numbers).

10. Writing Assignment
Write one paragraph—that’s 8 sentences—that answers the following questions:
Authors use both direct and indirect characterization to describe characters. Why does an author need to use both? Which does the author primarily use in chapter 1? How did that affect your ability to describe the character?