Themes in The One and Only Ivan

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 The One and Only Ivan. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate 3 themes, one for each cell, or identify one theme, and show three examples of it, one example per cell.

Examples of Themes in The One and Only Ivan

Friendship

The friendship between the animals, and between Julia and the animals, is prevalent throughout the whole story. The friendship between Ivan and Bob is particularly unique because they are so different in so many ways.

Loyalty

When Stella knows she is going to die, Ivan promises to take care of Ruby. Ivan works day and night to keep that promise.

Confinement

Ivan remembers when he was young and his family was captured or killed. He was the only one to survive, only to be confined in a small space for the entertainment of humans.

Loneliness

Many of the characters suffer from loneliness. For example, Mack, the owner, was left by his wife many years ago, and is clearly sad and lonely, and has been for a long time.

Due Date:

Objective: Create a storyboard that identifies 3 recurring themes in The One and Only Ivan. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.

Student Instructions:

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Identify the themes from The One and Only Ivan 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 submit storyboard.