Activity Overview
Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a theme and support their choices with details from the text.
Example Despereaux Theme
Forgiveness
During the novel, several characters forgive others for the wrongs they committed. For example, Despereaux is sent into exile by his own father. Later, Despereaux returns and, seeing the tears in his father’s eyes, forgives him for this. A very different aspect of the same theme is revealed when Roscuro does not forgive Princess Pea for the evil look she gave him. This is especially important to the story because by not forgiving the princess, he is left with darkness inside himself that he is unable to repair. Finally though, at the end of the novel, Pea forgives Roscuro for kidnapping her and for accidentally killing her mother, and he is redeemed.
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 that identifies themes in The Tale of Despereaux. Illustrate examples of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the theme(s) from The Tale of Despereaux you wish to include and replace the "Theme 1" text.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/4/2] Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified and described. | Some themes are correctly identified. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples of Theme(s) | All examples support the identified theme(s). | Most examples fit the identified theme(s). | Most examples do not fit the theme(s). |
| Illustrate Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme(s). | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Theme in The Tale of Despereaux
What is the central message or moral lesson conveyed through the theme of courage in "The Tale of Despereaux"?
The theme of courage in "The Tale of Despereaux" underscores the powerful message that bravery can be found in the most unexpected places and individuals. Despereaux, a tiny mouse with oversized ears, exemplifies this theme as he fearlessly pursues his dreams and embarks on a perilous journey to rescue Princess Pea. His unwavering determination to defy mouse conventions and confront adversity teaches us that courage is not measured by one's size but by the strength of one's convictions. The moral lesson here is that true courage lies within, and it empowers individuals to face challenges, challenge norms, and make a positive difference in their lives and the lives of others.
What symbolism is associated with the interplay between light and darkness in "The Tale of Despereaux"?
The interplay between light and darkness in the story carries rich symbolism. Darkness, represented by the castle's dungeons, symbolizes fear, despair, and the suppression of hope. In contrast, the world above, bathed in light, signifies joy, love, and the possibility of redemption. Roscuro's fascination with light and Despereaux's journey from the depths of darkness to the world above highlight the theme that even in the darkest of times, there is the potential for illumination, healing, and transformation. This symbolism reinforces the idea that hope can pierce through even the most profound despair, illuminating the path to forgiveness, love, and redemption.
Are there specific storyboard or worksheet templates designed for analyzing and illustrating thematic elements in the story?
While there may not be tailor-made storyboard or worksheet templates exclusively designed for "The Tale of Despereaux," educators and students can readily adapt existing templates for theme analysis. These templates often include sections for quotes or textual evidence that support thematic interpretations, spaces for visual representations of key scenes or symbols related to the theme, and areas for explanations and discussions of how the theme unfolds in the narrative. Templates for literary analysis or character development can be adapted to emphasize thematic exploration, making them versatile tools for engaging with the thematic depth of the story. Creating custom templates can also provide flexibility in addressing specific thematic elements and discussions, encouraging a deeper understanding of the book's themes.
How to Analyze Symbolism within Themes
Introduction
Begin the lesson by explaining the concept of symbolism in literature and its role in conveying deeper meanings. Introduce the idea that themes in literature often involve symbolic elements that contribute to the overall message. Define the lesson's objective: to analyze symbolism within themes in "The Tale of Despereaux."
Modeling Symbolism Analysis
Select a specific theme from "The Tale of Despereaux" (e.g., bravery, forgiveness, or light vs. darkness) and a relevant symbolic element (e.g., a specific object, character, or setting). Model the process of analyzing the chosen symbol within the context of the theme. Discuss how the symbol is introduced, how it evolves throughout the story, and its significance in relation to the theme. Encourage students to ask questions about the symbol's meaning and its connection to the theme.
Guided Practice
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a different theme from the book. Provide guidance by giving each group a specific symbol associated with their assigned theme. Instruct students to collaboratively analyze the symbolism of their assigned element within the theme. Encourage them to use textual evidence and quotes to support their analysis.
Group Sharing and Discussion
Have each group share their findings on symbolism within their assigned theme with the class. Lead a class discussion that explores how different symbols contribute to the development of themes in the story. Encourage students to compare and contrast the use of symbolism across various themes and how they enhance the overall message of the book.
More Storyboard That Activities
Tale of Despereaux, The
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