Activity Overview
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 two of the themes in Tuck Everlasting. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate two themes, one for each cell, or identify one theme and show two examples of it, one example per cell.
Examples of Themes in Tuck Everlasting
Growing Up
Winnie is tired of being controlled by her grandmother and mother. She is not allowed to leave her yard and explore the world around her. When she meets the Tuck family, she grows up fast.
Loyalty
Winnie is extremely loyal to the Tuck family. One example of this is when she insists that she wasn’t kidnapped by them. Another example is when she takes a big risk by offering to pretend to be Mae in jail so the family can have more time to run away.
Immortality
The main theme of the novel is immortality. The Tucks will never age, they will never die. Time truly doesn’t mean anything to them. When Winnie was given the choice to live forever or not, she chose not to. Would you have made that same choice?
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes in Tuck Everlasting. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Tuck Everlasting you wish to include and write them in the headings.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short description of each of the examples.
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
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/4/2] Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.
- [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/2] Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified as important recurring topics or messages in the story. | Some themes are correctly identified, but others are missing or do not make sense with the story. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified themes. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified themes. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified themes. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the themes and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the themes, but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the themes. |
How to Use Role-Playing to Teach Identifying Themes in Tuck Everlasting
Introduction and Theme Identification
Begin the class with a discussion on the concept of themes in literature, specifically focusing on "Tuck Everlasting." Introduce the central themes of the novel, such as the cycle of life, immortality, and the choices we make. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific scene from the novel that highlights one of these themes. In their groups, students will brainstorm and discuss how their assigned scene relates to the overarching themes of the novel. This step is crucial for setting the foundation for their role-play and ensuring they understand the connection between the scene and the theme.
Preparing for Role-Play
In this step, each group will prepare for their role-play. They will receive a script or a summary of their scene, and if scripts are not available, groups can create their own dialogues based on their understanding of the characters and the novel's context. Groups will decide roles, rehearse their scenes, and prepare any simple props or costumes if they wish. Teachers should circulate among the groups, offering guidance and support to ensure the role-plays are focused on expressing the novel’s themes.
Role-Playing Sessions
Each group will perform their role-play in front of the class, embodying the characters and conveying the emotions and conflicts that relate to the theme. It’s important that each group sticks to a set time for their performance to maintain engagement and allow time for all groups to perform. These sessions should be interactive, allowing students to immerse themselves in their roles and deepen their understanding of the themes through enactment.
Discussion and Reflection
After each performance, conduct a class discussion about the themes demonstrated in the role-play. Guide students with questions to help them articulate their understanding and interpretation of the themes. Encourage students to provide feedback on each other's performances and reflect on what they learned from the experience. Concluding the lesson, students can either write or share verbally how the role-play activity deepened their understanding of the novel's themes and their relevance to the story and its characters.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identifying Themes in Tuck Everlasting
What are the major themes in 'Tuck Everlasting', and how are they represented?
"Tuck Everlasting" by Natalie Babbitt is rich with themes that resonate deeply with its readers. The most prominent theme is the concept of immortality and the natural cycle of life and death. Through the Tuck family, who have drunk from a spring that grants eternal life, the novel explores the implications of living forever, juxtaposing the allure of immortality with its often-overlooked burdens and sorrows. Another significant theme is the idea of freedom versus safety, primarily explored through the character of Winnie Foster. Winnie's journey from a sheltered child to someone who confronts profound moral decisions reflects the complex interplay between the desire for adventure and the need for security. The novel also delves into the impact of choices, particularly how personal decisions can have far-reaching consequences. These themes are woven throughout the narrative, emerging through the characters' experiences, dialogues, and the unfolding plot, inviting readers to ponder life's big questions.
What role does the setting play in reinforcing the themes of 'Tuck Everlasting'?
The setting of "Tuck Everlasting" plays a crucial role in reinforcing the novel's themes. Set in a rural area with vast woods and a magical spring, the setting creates a backdrop that is both timeless and mystical, perfectly complementing the theme of immortality. The natural surroundings, described with vivid imagery, highlight the beauty and transient nature of life, echoing the cycle of life theme. Additionally, Winnie's initial confinement in her home and her subsequent venture into the Tucks' world of everlasting life underscore the theme of freedom versus safety. The contrast between the stifling, structured environment of Winnie's home and the boundless, untamed natural world of the Tucks accentuates her journey towards understanding the complexities of life and freedom.
How can storyboards be effectively utilized to explore themes in 'Tuck Everlasting'?
Storyboards can be an effective tool for exploring and visualizing the themes of "Tuck Everlasting." By creating sequential visual narratives, students can delve into the novel’s themes in a manner that combines artistic expression with analytical thinking. For instance, students can depict key moments that illustrate the theme of immortality, such as the discovery of the spring or the Tuck family’s stories of their endless life. Scenes capturing Winnie’s decision-making moments can help visualize the themes of choice and freedom. Storyboards allow for the integration of text and imagery, enabling students to annotate scenes with quotes or their interpretations, thereby deepening their understanding of the themes. This method not only aids in comprehension but also encourages creativity and engagement, allowing students to explore the novel's themes from multiple perspectives.
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