There are many themes, symbols, and motifs present throughout the novel Amal Unbound. In this activity, students will identify themes, symbols, and motifs and illustrate examples from the text. Students can explore by identifying these elements themselves or in an “envelope activity”, where they are given one or more to track throughout their reading. Then, they'll create a spider map illustrating what they found!
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes, symbols. or motifs found in Amal Unbound. Illustrate each and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
Invite students to work in small groups to research and present on different themes or symbols from Amal Unbound. This encourages teamwork and deeper understanding as students explain their findings to classmates.
Designate roles such as researcher, artist, writer, and presenter within each group. Clear responsibilities keep everyone engaged and accountable.
Have each group locate quotes or scenes from the novel that best illustrate their assigned theme or symbol. Direct evidence strengthens their understanding and presentations.
Encourage students to draw or digitally design images that symbolize their theme or motif. Visual aids make presentations more engaging and memorable.
Let each group present their findings and visuals to the class. Guide classmates to ask questions or offer positive feedback, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Amal Unbound explores key themes such as bravery, hope, the power of education, inequality, classism, sexism, patriarchy, family, and friendship. These themes highlight both individual struggles and broader societal issues.
Students can look for recurring objects, ideas, or images—like books and pomegranates—and discuss how they represent deeper meanings. Activities like spider maps or envelope activities help track and illustrate these elements throughout the novel.
Storyboard assignments are highly effective. Students select themes, symbols, or motifs, create visual representations based on the text, and write a brief description for each. This promotes comprehension and creative thinking.
The motif of education is central because it symbolizes hope and the potential to change one’s life. For Amal, learning represents freedom from oppression and the pathway to a brighter future.
Common symbols include books, representing knowledge and empowerment, and pomegranates, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of adversity.