Question

Which of these passages is an example of direct characterization?

Lola was a selfish, manipulative and conniving girl who would stop at nothing to get what she wanted.

If she could just get Jody to believe Erin stole her backpack, Lola thought, they’d stop speaking to each other and the secret would be safe. But first, she’d have to steal the backpack without getting caught.

After making sure the coast was clear, Lola pulled the backpack out of her locker, slipped it under her coat and buried it in the nearest trash bin. Now all she’d have to do is send Jody and anonymous text that Erin did it and wait for the fireworks.

“I don’t want to start any trouble, but I know it’d be wrong not to tell you Erin took it,” Lola said. “Are you sure?” Jody asked. Lola replied, “I saw her with it.” Red with rage, Lola turned on her heels and headed toward the gym, where Erin was practicing.

Answer 1

The first sentence: "Lola was a selfish, manipulative and conniving girl who would stop at nothing to get what she wanted."

That line directly tells the reader her traits (direct characterization). The rest of the passages show her behavior and speech (indirect characterization).