Character Dissection

Edward Hynes Lakeview
6th ELA - Visual Art
Mr. Adam & Mrs. Breaux

Gary Paulsen’s 1986 Hatchet takes the main character Brian through an internal transformation while trying to survive in the wilderness. Mrs. Breaux’s 6th grade class explores the idea of character development through a Character Dissection project.

Groups of 4-5 students worked together to create this visual arts project contrasting Brian’s perspectives and values before and after his transformation. They began by tracing one of their classmates on the paper and then included key elements to represent Brian’s experiences.

Example: What does Brian see? What is in Brian’s heart? What does Brian hold in his hand? What setting/condition is Brian walking through?

Students emphasized Brian’s materialistic life before his unexpected adventure by drawing “Old Brian” in nice clothes, shoes, fast food, and in a city environment. “New Brian” was depicted with a much rougher appearance but with values that better reflect a selfless and grateful person.