Activity Overview
This activity, involving the central idea, or main idea, of the novel, will demonstrate students’ comprehension of the text and can be displayed through three or more events.
The first substantial event is when Milo expresses his boredom and disinterest with everything in the world. Here, the reader begins to infer that something will happen to Milo to stop him from being bored.
Next, Milo is taken to The Lands Beyond, where he goes from one adventure to the next. Through these experiences, Milo realizes there is value in learning, reading, and seeing things around him.
In the end, Milo has come full circle; he is back in his room thinking that everything is boring. However, this feeling is short lived. He receives a letter from The Lands Beyond, encouraging him to find an adventure of his own.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard depicting three events that summarize the main idea of The Phantom Tollbooth.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Select and describe three main events in the novel.
- Illustrate each scene with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
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
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot | Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding. | Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images. | Images do not make sense with the summary. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
How To Discuss the Central Idea Present in “The Phantom Tollbooth”
Read and Analyze the Story
Encourage the students to read "The Phantom Tollbooth" as a class or individually to make sure that everyone is familiar with the main ideas, characters, and plot. Students can take notes during the discussions and highlight important sections of the story for discussion later.
Examine Symbols and Themes
Talk about the recurring themes throughout the novel. The significance of curiosity, the worth of education, the negative effects of monotony, the expressive power of language, and the process of self-discovery are a few possible themes. Examine the narrative's allegories and symbols. For instance, the tollbooth itself might represent the entryway to novel encounters and understandings. Talk about the possible symbolic interpretations of the story's other characters and locations.
Discuss Impact on Characters
Examine how Milo, the primary character, and other important characters have changed throughout the story. Talk about how Milo changes as he travels and how the encounters change his character.
Write Another Story
Once the students are more familiar with the central idea of The Phantom Tollbooth, ask them to write their own story using the same central idea. Students can create their own characters, develop a totally different plotline, or even use a different genre but use the same central idea. This will help the teachers assess their comprehension of the idea and its application.
Reflect and Discuss
At the end of the lesson, ask the students what they learned from Milo’s story and if they received any important real-life lessons from the narrative. Students can reflect on Milo’s journey and how it teaches the importance of learning and pursuing new adventures. Encourage the students to discuss amongst themselves the relevance of these ideas and their significance in the story.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Central Idea in “The Phantom Tollbooth”
What central idea does the story revolve around?
A voyage of self-discovery, learning, and curiosity are some of the main ideas present in the story. The narrative highlights the value of participation, creativity, and the quest for knowledge.
What connection exists between the story's main idea and the theme of boredom?
Milo's adventure is sparked by boredom. According to the main idea, interest and involvement in different adventures of life can help to ward against boredom, which is a byproduct of disengagement.
To what extent does the main concept correspond with students' actual experiences?
Focusing on personal growth, learning, and curiosity, the main premise invites students to consider their own experiences. It asks them to reflect on the ways in which participation and an open mind might enhance their learning experience.
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