Symbols come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a symbol or motif from the novel and design an image or scene as illustration. Below the square, they should explain their scene’s significance. The example storyboard discusses the symbolism behind Catherine’s caged birds. Other symbols and motifs include the following:
The caged birds in Catherine's room represent Catherine herself. Catherine's nickname "Birdy" or "Little Bird" emphasizes this connection. Like the birds, Catherine feels trapped, unable to escape the life that is forced upon her. At the end of the book, Birdy frees all her birds except the popinjay which cannot survive on its own. She recognizes that she is most like the popinjay; she needs her friends and family to survive and cannot simply run away from her life.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies and explains one symbol from the text.
Engage students by leading a group talk about how symbols are used in stories to convey deeper meaning. Ask students to share examples of symbols from other books or movies to connect their prior knowledge. This helps build a strong foundation before analyzing symbols in Catherine, Called Birdy.
Encourage students to think beyond the listed examples and identify additional objects, characters, or events in the novel that could serve as symbols. This promotes critical thinking and allows students to find their own meaningful connections within the story.
Demonstrate the process of analyzing a symbol by thinking aloud as you break down its meaning, relevance, and impact in the novel. Use one of the lesser-known symbols and explain your reasoning step by step, showing students how to connect textual evidence to their interpretations.
Have students share their completed storyboard squares with a partner or small group. Guide them to provide constructive feedback by focusing on clarity, creativity, and the depth of explanation. This peer review process helps students refine their work and deepen their understanding of symbolism.
Invite students to reflect on objects or experiences in their own lives that hold symbolic meaning. Encourage them to draw parallels between these personal symbols and those found in Catherine, Called Birdy. This makes the concept of symbolism more relatable and memorable.
A symbol square in 'Catherine, Called Birdy' is a visual activity where students choose a symbol or motif from the novel, illustrate it in a storyboard, and write a brief explanation about its significance below the image. This helps deepen understanding of key themes and symbols in the story.
To create a symbol square, select a meaningful symbol from the novel, illustrate it in a storyboard box, and then write a short description explaining its importance to the story and characters. This activity encourages creative thinking and analysis of literary symbols.
Examples of symbols in 'Catherine, Called Birdy' include the caged birds (representing Catherine's feelings of being trapped), her journal, embroidery, Granny’s cottage, and the bird pin from Stephen. Each symbol reflects different aspects of Catherine's life and growth.
The caged birds symbolize Catherine because, like them, she feels confined by the expectations and restrictions of her medieval life. Her nickname 'Birdy' reinforces this connection, showing her longing for freedom and self-determination.
Using storyboards helps students visually connect with symbols and motifs in literature. It allows them to creatively express understanding, making abstract concepts more concrete and engaging, especially for visual learners.