Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify themes and symbols from the story, and support their choices with details from the text.
One theme is a warning of the potential consequences of nuclear weapons. When nations arm themselves with enough power to wipe out the entire planet, the entirety of the human race must hope and pray that those nations have leaders with enough common sense not to use them.
There is importance in having a purpose, or goals. Many students will be able to relate to this concept on a smaller scale: graduating from high school, getting a job, winning their next football game, etc. In Marvin’s world, his people’s purpose is important to their very survival. Without the ultimate goal of returning home, there would be no reason to continue their exile; there would be no point in trying to maintain their little moon Colony, and there would be no point in bringing forth new generations.
Before they enter the Outside, Marvin gets a chance to walk through the Farmlands, which is essentially a greenhouse for the plants and vegetation of the Colony. Marvin loves the smell of life in the Farmlands. It’s a different kind of smell than the filtered oxygen found in the Residential levels. The Farmlands awaken Marvin’s instincts and longing for a place he’s not quite sure he understands: home.
Marvin observes the "evil phosphorescence" in what should have been the dark portions of the Earth. The menacing glow highlights the lingering danger of the radiation fallout from the war. It also gives Marvin a sense of despair; he knows that that glow will be there for many years yet, and while maybe his children’s children will be able to return one day, he himself will never be able to go to Earth.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard depicting important themes, symbols, and motifs in the story.
Encourage students to lead thoughtful discussions using the Socratic seminar format. This method helps them think critically about story themes and share diverse perspectives.
Prepare several open-ended questions that spark conversation about the story’s major themes, like survival or hope. These questions should invite multiple viewpoints and deep thinking.
Set up seats in a circle to promote equality and eye contact. This arrangement encourages every student to contribute and listen actively.
Give students clear roles, like facilitator or note-taker, and review respectful discussion rules. Clear expectations keep the seminar productive and positive.
Remind students to support their ideas with quotes or examples from the text. Using evidence strengthens arguments and ties discussion back to the story.
The main themes in 'If I Forget Thee, Oh Earth' include the dangers of nuclear weapons and the importance of purpose. The story warns about the catastrophic consequences of nuclear war and explores how having a long-term goal gives meaning to life, even in exile.
Use a storyboard activity where students identify and illustrate symbols like the Farmlands and motifs such as the evil phosphorescence. Ask students to connect these elements to the story’s themes using details from the text for support.
The 'evil phosphorescence' symbolizes the lingering danger and despair caused by radioactive fallout from nuclear war. It represents a constant reminder of Earth's devastation and the lasting impact on future generations.
Purpose gives Marvin and the colony hope and motivation to survive in exile. Their shared goal of one day returning to Earth unites them and provides a reason to maintain their community despite hardships.
Have students create a storyboard to depict key themes, symbols, and motifs. This visual approach helps students connect textual evidence to abstract ideas in a quick and engaging way.