Character Analysis Tools
This document contains the core mechanics and worksheets for Narrative Crossroads.
Character Frame Worksheet
Copy and adapt for your classroom.
Character: _______
Text: _______
Crossroads Moment: _______
1. WANTS
What does this character want in this moment?
What does this character want in the larger story?
Textual Evidence:
“______________________” (Page/Chapter: __)
2. FEARS
What is this character afraid of?
Textual Evidence:
“______________________” (Page/Chapter: __)
3. VALUES & RULES
What principles guide this character’s behavior?
What would this character never do? Why?
Textual Evidence:
“______________________” (Page/Chapter: __)
4. RESOURCES & LIMITATIONS
What does this character have going for them?
What constraints limit this character’s options?
Textual Evidence:
“______________________” (Page/Chapter: __)
Basic Resolution Mechanic
When a character attempts something with uncertain outcome:
- Describe the action — What does your character try to do?
- Justify from character — Why would this character do this?
- Roll one six-sided die (d6)
| Roll | Result |
|---|---|
| 6 | Full Success — It works exactly as intended |
| 4-5 | Success with Cost — It works, but something complicates matters |
| 2-3 | Partial Success — It partially works, or works with significant drawback |
| 1 | Failure — It doesn’t work, or makes things worse |
- GM narrates the outcome
- Continue the scene
Debrief Reflection Prompts
Choose one or more for post-play discussion or writing:
Comparison
- How did your choice compare to what the character actually does in the text?
- Why do you think the author made a different choice?
Discovery
- What did the roleplay reveal about this character that you hadn’t considered before?
- What surprised you about how the scene played out?
Evidence
- What textual evidence supports your interpretation of this character?
- What evidence might challenge your reading?
Transfer
- How would you use this understanding in an analytical essay?
- What claim about this character could you now defend with evidence?
Advanced Mechanics
[TO BE DEVELOPED]
Trait Dice
Assign dice bonuses based on character traits established in the Character Frame.
Competing Values
When a character’s wants and values conflict, require a choice before rolling.
Collaborative Crossroads
Multiple characters in the same scene, with interdependent outcomes.
Printable Materials
[TO BE DEVELOPED]
- Character Frame (one-page, printable)
- Quick Reference Card (mechanics summary)
- GM Cheat Sheet (facilitation prompts)