Why might educators use a Character Map during a lesson?

Using a Character Map during a lesson is highly effective for analyzing character relationships and development. This tool allows students to visually organize information about characters, which aids in understanding their traits, motivations, and the dynamics between them. By mapping out these elements, students gain deeper insights into how characters interact, evolve throughout the narrative, and contribute to thematic elements of the story.

In contrast, summarizing the entire story would involve a broader scope that goes beyond just the characters, focusing more on plot and settings. A Character Map would not serve well as a replacement for writing assignments since it is meant to enhance understanding and provide a visual aid rather than serve as a substitute for student expression or assessment. Evaluating the author's writing style would also not align with the specific focus of a Character Map, as this analysis pertains more to linguistic and stylistic choices rather than character analysis.