What is the S.T.E.A.L. Method of Characterization?

The S.T.E.A.L. method of characterization is a helpful approach to writing designed to enhance students’ writing skills by helping them dive deeper into the development of characters. This method breaks character development down into five critical components: Speech, Thoughts, Effects on others, Actions, and Looks. By encouraging students to explore these traits and actions in their writings, they can create better, more compelling characters that make their stories come alive!

Printable STEAL Characterization Charts

This printable STEAL characterization reference guide is the perfect tool to add to your students’ writing journals for them to reference all year long. We have included two versions of the anchor chart for students of differing grade bands. Each anchor chart reviews the STEAL acronym and questions students can ask themselves when developing their characters.

Using these handy printable anchor charts as part of the writing process provides your students with a visual aid and question bank that further reinforces the thought process, making it easier to ‘steal’ the show with their creative writing.

Download and Print Your S.T.E.A.L. Characterization Chart

This resource is available as an easy-to-use Google Slides or Printable PDF Resource file. To get your copy, click the dropdown arrow on the download button to select your preferred file format. Make your copies, pass them out to your students, and you’re ready to begin!

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and Teach Starter Collaborator.

Even More Anchor Charts for Writing Class!

Looking for more reference guides to add to your students’ writing notebooks? Try these handy printables before you go!

teaching resource

Spelling Suffixes Anchor Charts - Plurals

Help students understand when to apply the right plural spellings based on the ending of any word.

teaching resource

C.O.P.S. and A.R.M.S Editing Anchor Charts

Encourage students to proofread and edit their writing using the C.O.P.S. and A.R.M.S acronyms with printable writing anchor charts and editing checklists.