Activity Overview
While reading A Raisin in the Sun, students will inevitably be thinking about their own future dreams and plans, and might be wondering about obstacles that can get in the way. Depending on a student’s race, culture, background, gender identity, and class, their dreams may differ greatly from other students’. Have your students use the Storyboard Creator to make a five-cell depiction of their future dreams and plans. Have them explain what motivated them or prompted them to decide on these dreams, and have them include some fears of obstacles that might get in the way. Have the students present their storyboards and then engage in a class discussion of why dreams are important to have, and to follow.
Connecting to Your Dreams Questions
- Background
- Dream
- Why this Dream?
- Obstacles to My Dream
- How will I Achieve this Dream?
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 shows a dream that you have. Use the template storyboard to guide you.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write a short explanation under each cell, using the template to help you.
- Depict each cell using any combination of scenes, characters, items, and text boxes.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Theme | Identified theme is an important take-away message from the story. | Identified a theme, but it is either unclear or missing a key part. | The theme is incorrectly identified. |
| Examples of Theme | All personal examples support the identified theme. | Most personal examples fit the identified theme. | Most personal examples do not fit the theme. |
| Illustration of Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme. | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
Activity Overview
While reading A Raisin in the Sun, students will inevitably be thinking about their own future dreams and plans, and might be wondering about obstacles that can get in the way. Depending on a student’s race, culture, background, gender identity, and class, their dreams may differ greatly from other students’. Have your students use the Storyboard Creator to make a five-cell depiction of their future dreams and plans. Have them explain what motivated them or prompted them to decide on these dreams, and have them include some fears of obstacles that might get in the way. Have the students present their storyboards and then engage in a class discussion of why dreams are important to have, and to follow.
Connecting to Your Dreams Questions
- Background
- Dream
- Why this Dream?
- Obstacles to My Dream
- How will I Achieve this Dream?
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 shows a dream that you have. Use the template storyboard to guide you.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write a short explanation under each cell, using the template to help you.
- Depict each cell using any combination of scenes, characters, items, and text boxes.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Theme | Identified theme is an important take-away message from the story. | Identified a theme, but it is either unclear or missing a key part. | The theme is incorrectly identified. |
| Examples of Theme | All personal examples support the identified theme. | Most personal examples fit the identified theme. | Most personal examples do not fit the theme. |
| Illustration of Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme. | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
How Tos about A Raisin in the SunText Connection: Your Dreams
Set the Stage with a Class Brainstorm on Famous Dreamers
Engage students by inviting them to share examples of famous people—historic or modern—who overcame obstacles to achieve their dreams. This warm-up activates background knowledge and helps students see the relevance of dreaming big in real life.
Model How to Connect Personal Experiences to the Text
Demonstrate your own connection to a dream or goal while reading a related passage from A Raisin in the Sun. Share what motivated you, possible barriers, and how you worked toward your goal. This shows students how to make meaningful, text-based connections.
Guide Students in Setting SMART Goals for Their Dreams
Help students break down their dreams into Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound steps. This makes their aspirations more concrete and encourages reflection on realistic planning.
Facilitate Peer Feedback by Hosting a Gallery Walk
Organize a gallery walk where students display their storyboards and give each other positive, constructive feedback. This fosters a supportive classroom community and helps learners refine their ideas.
Reflect Together on Growth and Next Steps
Wrap up by leading a reflection discussion or journaling activity about what students learned from the process—and how they can apply these lessons to future dreams. This step encourages ongoing goal setting and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Raisin in the SunText Connection: Your Dreams
How can I help students connect their personal dreams to 'A Raisin in the Sun'?
Encourage students to reflect on their own aspirations by having them create a storyboard of their future dreams, just as characters do in A Raisin in the Sun. This activity deepens understanding by personalizing the play’s themes of hope, obstacles, and motivation.
What is a simple lesson plan for teaching 'A Raisin in the Sun' and students’ dreams?
Ask students to use a five-cell storyboard to illustrate their own dream, motivations, potential obstacles, and strategies for success. Then hold a class discussion about the importance of dreams, linking personal stories to the play’s characters and themes.
What are some obstacles students might face in pursuing their dreams, and how can I address them in class?
Common obstacles include economic barriers, cultural expectations, and self-doubt. Facilitate open discussions where students can share fears and brainstorm solutions, fostering empathy and resilience inspired by A Raisin in the Sun.
How do I use a storyboard activity to explore theme and character motivation in 'A Raisin in the Sun'?
Have students create a storyboard mapping out a character’s dream, motivations, and challenges. Then, guide them to draw parallels to their own lives, strengthening their grasp of theme and character motivation.
Why is it important for students to discuss and visualize their future dreams in English class?
Visualizing dreams helps students articulate goals, confront challenges, and relate literature to real life. It builds self-awareness and connects classroom learning to personal growth.
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