Sample Character Sketch (Page 2 of 2) in pdf

Sample Character Sketch Page 2

Writing a CHARACTER SKETCH

- can you draw your friend IN WORDS?

Writers need to describe people believably and realistically. They need to

describe characters in such detail readers can actually feel they know them.

A character sketch is a way to put people on paper. It goes beyond just

describing a person’s physical characteristics. Character sketches are most

effective when they reveal “telling” details that capture the essence of someone’s

personality.

þYou are going to write a character sketch for someone you know. It could be a

friend, family member, or anybody you know well.

Here’s a list of things to include in your character sketch:

• opening – introduce the topic (your friend)

• explain how you met, or where you know each other from

• give a physical description – appearance, clothes, voice, habits,

mannerisms, etc.

• personality trait #1, and supporting evidence

• personality trait #2, and supporting evidence

• personality trait #3, and supporting evidence

• closing comment – try to reconnect to your opening

You do not have to follow this exact order, but your character sketch does

need to include all these parts.

TIP:

Think about your friend in vivid detail. What color are her eyes? What kind of

clothes does she favor? What kind of shoes? How is her hair cut and styled? Dig

deeper. How does he talk? Fast, slow, soft? What nervous habits does he have?

What does he daydream about? What music does he like? What sports? What

subjects in school? These details can say a lot about personality.

Sample Character Sketch Page 2