Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify themes and symbols from the novel, and support their choices with details from the text.
This theme is conveyed through Kit as well as the colonists in general. Kit stands out from the others because of her independent spirit. She traveled alone all the way from Barbados, and acts according to her own judgment rather than the dictates of her society. The Connecticut colonists value independence too. They object to control by a British governor and hide their original charter in a tree to preserve their right to self-determination in the future.
Many of the villagers judge others quickly based on superficial qualities. Both Hannah Tupper and Kit are labeled as witches because of how they appear or how they act. In reality, however, Hannah and Kit are some of the kindest people in the colony. The judgments the colonists make based on appearance are not accurate.
Books play a positive role in Kit's life. In Barbados, Kit found joy and adventure reading poetry and plays with her grandfather. Even in Wethersfield, where the Puritans disapprove of secular texts, Kit's favorite activity is listening to John Holbrook read the Bible. Reading is also the key to Prudence's friendship with Kit and her newfound confidence.
The meadows symbolize peace for Kit. The waving grass reminds her of the billowing waves surrounding her home in Barbados. Kit comes to the meadows when she is worried or upset, and the meadows bring her a sense of calm.
William's house is a symbol of marriage. The new home will be the first place he and his wife will live together. He begins building his house only after he has decided upon marrying Kit. The timeline of his courtship with Kit is determined by the building process. As his house nears completion, Kit knows she must make up her mind about William.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Engage students by connecting story themes and symbols to their own lives through writing. This helps deepen understanding and makes abstract ideas more relatable.
Select a prominent theme (like Independence) or symbol (such as The Meadows) from the story. Focusing on one keeps the activity simple and meaningful.
Write a prompt that asks students to connect the chosen theme or symbol to their own experiences. For example: 'Describe a place that gives you peace, just like the meadows do for Kit.'
Share a sample answer or brainstorm ideas together. Demonstrate how to reflect on personal experiences and tie them to the story’s ideas.
Allow students to write individually, then share with a partner or small group. Encourage discussion to build connections and deepen comprehension.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond explores major themes such as independence and self-determination, and the idea that appearances can be deceiving. The story highlights Kit's individual spirit, the colonists' desire for freedom, and how quick judgments based on looks can be misleading.
Use storyboards to help students visually identify and explain recurring symbols and motifs like books, the meadows, and William’s house. Ask students to illustrate examples and write brief descriptions to connect these symbols to the story's themes.
Independence is central because both Kit and the Connecticut colonists value making their own choices. Kit acts based on her beliefs despite social pressure, while the colonists hide their charter to resist British control, emphasizing the importance of self-determination.
The meadows symbolize peace and comfort for Kit. They remind her of her home in Barbados and offer a calming refuge whenever she feels worried or upset.
Have students create a storyboard that shows examples of different themes from the novel. They can draw scenes and add short descriptions to explain how each scene connects to the theme.