Activity Overview
There are many themes, symbols, and motifs present throughout Freak the Mighty. In this activity, students will identify themes, symbols, and motifs in Freak the Mighty 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!
Examples of Themes, Symbols, and Motifs in Freak the Mighty
- Friendship
- Empathy
- Family
- Coming of Age
- Storytelling
- Courage
- People with disabilities and Morquio syndrome
- Family history and individuality
- Trauma
- Bullying
- Isolation
- Appearances
- Death
- Lies
- Cleverness
- The Dictionary
- Kevin's Dictionary
- Max's Blank Journal
- The Down Under
- King Arthur and Quests
- The Ornithopter (Freak's bird)
- Freak the Mighty
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes, symbols, or motifs found in Freak the Mighty. Illustrate each and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes, symbols, or motifs from Freak the Mighty you wish to include and type them in the title box at the top.
- Create an image for examples that represent each symbol using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the examples in the black text box.
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/6/2] Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/8/2] Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text, including its relationship to the characters, setting, and plot; provide an objective summary of the text
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/8/4] Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including analogies or allusions to other texts
- [ELA-Literacy/W/6/6] Use technology, including the Internet, to produce and publish writing as well as to interact and collaborate with others; demonstrate sufficient command of keyboarding skills to type a minimum of three pages in a single sitting.
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/1] Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Symbol(s) | All symbols are correctly identified as objects that represent something else at a higher level in the story. | Most symbols are correctly identified, but some objects are missing or are incorrectly identified as significant symbols. | No symbols are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified symbols. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified symbols. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified symbols. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the symbols and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the symbols but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the symbols. |
How To Facilitate a Discussion on the topic of “Disabilities” in Class
Create a Respectful Environment
Inform the students beforehand that the discussion around the topic will be completely respectful. Students can share their opinions and ideas but they should also respect the ideas of other people and behave in a way that no one feels mocked or offended.
Begin a General Discussion
Begin a general discussion by asking the students what they know about disabilities or if they know anyone with any form of disability. Ask the students what they think about when they see anyone with a disability and what questions arise in their minds. Build on their responses and make the session impactful and thought-provoking.
Discuss the Theme of Disabilities in the Story
Start a discussion with the students on the themes included in “Freak The Mighty”. Pose open-ended questions such as why the author uses physical and learning disabilities to portray the characters. Students can also use their imagination and ask questions like what would have happened if the characters did not have those disabilities. Encourage the students to reflect on the significance of the representation of these disabilities in mass media.
Talk about Inclusivity and Accessibility
Investigate the idea of accessibility in many settings (such as physical environments, technology, and education). Ask students to come up with ideas on how to make places more accessible for people with impairments. Teachers can also share some examples of ideas and spaces that have been created to make this world more accessible for everyone.
Arrange a Seminar (Optional)
If possible, teachers can arrange a seminar and invite a guest speaker who can talk about their disability and share their experiences. This will help the students understand their point of view and encourage empathy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Themes, Symbols, and Motifs in Freak the Mighty
What are some common central ideas present in the story?
The book "Freak the Mighty" explores several topics, including friendship, overcoming obstacles, disabilities, trauma, and the notion that real strength comes from within.
How is friendship represented as a theme in “Freak The Mighty”?
The main theme of the narrative is the relationship between Kevin (Freak) and Max (Mighty). It shows how sincere connections may empower people to confront obstacles and transcend their limits. The importance of friendship can be observed when the two friends who are not so similar help each other out despite their differences.
What can students learn about overcoming obstacles and challenges from the story?
The message of "Freak the Mighty" is that people can triumph over even the most difficult obstacles if they have the encouragement and belief of a good friend. It focuses on how people can lift themselves up and not be afraid of anything coming their way.
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