Point of View in The Black Stallion

Point of view provides the eyes, ears, and thoughts of a character. By analyzing point of view, students can gather insight to the author’s purpose, theme, and voice. In this activity, students will examine the author’s point of view and identify ways it is unique in understanding elements of the story.

The Reader and Alec Experience Action at the Same Time

1. “In the afternoon he groomed the Black until the stallion’s black body glistened, and his long mane fell smoothly down on his neck.”

2. “Suddenly he let loose on the reins and the stallion bolted. He gained momentum in mighty leaps.”

3. “Answering the pleas of the hundreds grouped around them, Alec took a few roses from the huge bow of flowers draped around the Black’s neck, and then threw the rest of them into the throng.”

The Reader Knows Alec’s Thoughts

1. “When he came up, his first thought was of the ship; then he heard an explosion, and he saw the Drake settling deep into the water.”

2. “Without stopping to think, Alec grabbed hold of [the rope]. Then he was pulled through the water, into the oncoming seas.”

3. “Alec forgot his problems in the beauty of the stallion as he swept along, grace in his swift stride, his black mane and tail flying.”

Due Date:

Objective: Create a storyboard analyzing the differing points of view in The Black Stallion

Student Instructions:

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Add titles for the rows and columns.
3. In each cell, add appropriate characters, scenes, and items to show your thinking.
4. Explain each illustration in the description boxes.
5. Click "Save and Exit" when you are done.