Avoiding Stereotypes

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is designed to help students engage in the process of creating well-rounded characters in their own stories by avoiding stereotypes. Students are prompted to identify a character in their story who is at risk of becoming a stereotype and then to use the provided organizer to brainstorm ways to develop the character more fully. The organizer prompts students to consider the character’s speech, thoughts, effects on others, actions, and looks, allowing them to plan a more nuanced portrayal that avoids simplistic categorization.

The worksheet teaches students to recognize potential stereotypes in their writing and guides them in avoiding such pitfalls. It underscores the importance of character depth and individuality, steering students away from relying on cliches. By encouraging them to consider multiple dimensions of their character, the worksheet fosters creativity and critical thinking. Ultimately, it aims to improve students’ storytelling skills by promoting diversity and complexity in character development.