Activity Overview
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 the themes in Midnight Without a Moon.
Examples of Themes in Midnight Without a Moon
Racism
Rose, her family, and the black people in her town and all of Mississippi are victims of horrible racism and mistreatment.
Injustice
Throughout the novel, Rose thinks about the injustice that is all around her.
Family
Although oftentimes they don’t get along, Rose’s family is important to her, and the lack of love from her mother is a constant struggle throughout the story.
Courage
Rose shows courage throughout the story. Her Aunt Belle and Monty are courageous enough to join the NAACP and stand up for justice. Levi was courageous when he registered to vote, even though it was a decision that cost him his life.
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 in Midnight Without a Moon. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Midnight Without a Moon you wish to include and write them in the headings.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short description of each of the examples.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements:
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/7/2] Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text
- [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
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified as important recurring topics or messages in the story. | Some themes are correctly identified, but others are missing or do not make sense with the story. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified themes. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified themes. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified themes. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the themes and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the themes, but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the themes. |
How To Compare Themes Present in “Midnight Without a Moon”
Identify Key Themes
Introduce the concept of themes and central ideas to students and ask them to identify key themes present in the story. In order to identify these themes, students should carefully read and analyze the story multiple times and try to look at the narrative in a broader context as a theme is a central idea present in a story.
Examine Impacts on Characters
Talk about the experiences and contributions that the many characters in the book make to each subject. Help the students examine the range of viewpoints and drives, bearing in mind that different characters will interpret issues in different ways. Students can also reflect on how different themes aid character development and progress.
Think About the Historical Setting
Encourage the students to make connections between the novel's ideas and its historical setting, especially the Civil Rights Movement. Talk about how historical occurrences affect and impact how themes are portrayed. Students can analyze the historical context for each theme and compare them from a different perspective.
Make a Graphic Organizer or Theme Chart
Ask the students to create a graphic organizer or theme chart as visual assistance. List the themes that have been determined and provide an area for students to write examples, quotations, and their own analysis. This graphic organizer will be an interesting activity for students and allow them to engage more in discussion and participate in class activities.
Encourage Analysis and Perspective
Encourage the students to share their analysis and perspective regarding the themes present in the story and their comparison. Students can share any opinion such as a particular theme was aiding character development more but their argument should be backed by text from the story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Themes in “Midnight Without a Moon”
Which key central ideas are present in the story?
The novel's key central ideas are identity, family ties, perseverance, racism and segregation, and the pursuit of justice. Students can analyze how each idea impacts the narrative and shapes the story of each character.
What effect does racism have on the characters and how is it portrayed in the book?
Systemic injustice, racial conflict, and discriminatory acts are all used to illustrate racism. Racial discrimination presents obstacles for the characters, influencing their reactions and experiences. For instance, Emmett Till’s case going to court gave Rose a little hope but it soon turned into shattered her dreams as she became aware of the reality.
What challenges do the characters have in pursuing justice, and how do they get beyond them?
The challenges faced by the characters include institutional prejudice, legislative restrictions, and social opposition. They must work together, be resilient, and be determined if they are to overcome these obstacles.
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