Themes in Full Cicada Moon

A theme is a central idea, subject, or message in a story. Many stories have more than one important theme. For this activity, students will identify and illustrate two of the themes in Full Cicada Moon. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate two themes, one for each cell, or identify one theme and show two examples of it, one example per cell.

Examples of Themes in Full Cicada Moon

Friendship

Mimi’s friendships are very important to her. She left behind cousins who were very close to her, and felt lonely when she moved. Mimi’s friendship with Stacey is special, as Stacey doesn’t see Mimi as the bi-racial new girl, she sees Mimi as a kind, smart, good person. Mimi’s friendship with Timothy is complicated, as his uncle does not want them anywhere near one another.

Race

Race is a very prominent theme in the story. One example is when Stacey, who is white, and Victor, who is black, dance together at the school dance, and the boys get mad and bully Victor. Another example is when Stacey doesn’t invite Mimi to her birthday party because her mother doesn’t approve of their friendship. There are many more examples of race being a factor, and the outward racism that Mimi and her parents face.

Speaking Out For What You Believe In

Mimi’s parents have taught her that speaking up is important, especially in a respectful way. One example of this is when Mimi decides to sit in the shop class and refuses to leave; she gets suspended for her actions but her parents are proud of her for standing up for what she believes in.

Kindness

There are many examples of how Mimi and her parents choose kindness, even when it is difficult. One example of this is when they bring Thanksgiving dinner to Mr. Dell, even though he has treated the family poorly in the past.

Due Date:

Objective: Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in Full Cicada Moon. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.

Student Instructions:

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Identify the themes from Full Cicada Moon you wish to include and write them in the headings.
3. Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
4. Write a short description of each of the examples.
5. Save and exit when you're done.