Bradford 9th graders in Ms. Johnson and Ms. Bower’s Survey Literature classes kicked off their Romeo and Juliet unit with a creative Character Case Study Gallery Walk—framed as a “suspect investigation.” Working independently and in small groups, students analyzed characters by examining traits, relationships, pressures, and key background details.
As they moved through the gallery, students considered how each “suspect” might influence others and what choices they could make throughout the play. This interactive approach helped students get to know the cast while introducing big ideas like influence, decision-making and responsibility, setting the stage for thoughtful, critical reading as they dive into the text.