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

The S.T.E.A.L. method of characterisation 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 Characterisation Charts

This printable STEAL paragraph characterisation 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. Characterisation Techniques Guide

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 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

ARMS and COPS - Editing Posters and Checklists (Portrait)

Encourage your students to proofread and edit their writing using the C.O.P.S. and A.R.M.S acronyms with a pair of printable writing posters.