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 New Kid. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate two themes, one for each part of the graphic novel storyboard, or identify one theme and show two examples of it, one example per cell.
There are many examples of racial prejudice as Jordan navigates through the story. One example is when Ms. Rawle often calls the African American boys by each other’s names without even thinking about who she is talking to. Another example is when Andy tells Jordan that he would like the math teacher, Mr. Garner, because he is also African American.
Jordan and Liam become friends almost instantly, even though they come from two very different worlds. Jordan also becomes close friends with Drew, as they have a lot in common. It doesn’t even occur to Jordan that all three of them should hang out until one day when his gran’pa suggests it.
Most of the students at Riverdale are from very wealthy families. Jordan and Drew, however, are on financial aide and are embarrassed when one of the teachers talks about it in front of everyone.
Andy is a typical bully. He is constantly making fun of anyone who he sees as “different” or “weird”. Andy has some followers, but for the most part, the kids see what he’s really like and don’t let him get to them.
(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 New Kid. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
Connect literary themes to daily subjects by referencing them during your regular lessons. For example, when teaching about community in social studies, highlight how friendship or social classism appears in 'New Kid.' This helps students see real-world relevance and deepens their understanding.
Divide students into small groups and assign each group a theme from 'New Kid.' Have them discuss whether the theme is portrayed positively or negatively, backing up their arguments with examples from the book. This encourages critical thinking and helps students respectfully consider multiple viewpoints.
Ask students to share personal experiences or stories that connect to the themes in 'New Kid.' Prompt reflection with questions like, "Have you ever felt left out like Jordan?" This builds empathy and helps students make meaningful connections.
End each lesson with a one-minute exit ticket where students write or draw how a theme from 'New Kid' showed up in the day’s lesson or in their own experiences. This checks understanding and reinforces learning without taking much class time.
New Kid explores key themes such as racial prejudice, friendship, social class differences, and bullying. These themes highlight challenges faced by the main character, Jordan, as he navigates a new school and forms relationships.
Students can identify themes in New Kid by looking for recurring ideas or issues throughout the story. They should find specific examples, like scenes showing friendship or racial prejudice, and illustrate or describe them to show understanding.
Discussing racial prejudice in New Kid helps students understand how bias and stereotypes can affect individuals in school environments, promoting empathy and awareness of diversity and inclusion issues.
A simple lesson plan involves having students read selected scenes, identify two key themes, illustrate each on a storyboard, and write short descriptions. This activity encourages comprehension and creative expression.
Friendship in New Kid often crosses social class lines, as seen with Jordan, Liam, and Drew. The story shows both the challenges and strengths that come from forming friendships with people from different backgrounds.