Character Relationship Maps

Objective: This activity aims to help students understand the complex relationships between characters in "Amal Unbound" by Aisha Saeed and how these relationships influence the plot and themes of the novel.

Instructions:

1. Introduction to the Novel:

   • Introduce the novel "Amal Unbound" to the students, providing a brief overview of the story, its setting, and main characters. Explain that they will be exploring the relationships between these characters in more depth.

2. Character Identification:

   • Provide students with a list of key characters from the book, including Amal, her family members, friends, and other significant figures in the story. Briefly describe each character's role and personality.

3. Mapping Relationships:

   • Distribute blank sheets of paper or digital templates for character relationship maps to the students.

   • Instruct students to create a visual representation of the relationships between the characters by drawing lines connecting them and labeling each line with the nature of the relationship (e.g., family, friendship, mentorship, conflict).

4. Analysis and Annotation:

   • Encourage students to annotate their maps with brief descriptions or quotes from the book that illustrate the dynamics of each relationship. They should consider how these relationships evolve over the course of the story.

5. Discussion and Reflection:

   • After completing their character relationship maps, lead a class discussion where students share their maps and explain their interpretations.

   • Encourage students to discuss how the relationships between characters contribute to the development of key themes such as courage, resilience, and social justice.

Sample Questions for Discussion:

• How do the relationships between characters drive the plot forward?

• How do characters' interactions with each other influence their development and growth?

• How do power dynamics affect the relationships between characters?

• How do characters navigate conflicts and challenges within their relationships?

Closure:

• Conclude the activity by emphasizing the importance of understanding character relationships in "Amal Unbound" and how they contribute to the overall impact of the novel. Encourage students to reflect on how the relationships they mapped shape the story's themes and messages.