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 A Single Shard. 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 A Single Shard
Integrity
Tree-ear has a lot of integrity. One example of this is when Tree-ear sees a farmer whose seeds are falling out of his bag. Rather than stealing the seeds without the farmer ever knowing, Tree-ear tells the farmer of the hole in his bag.
Respect
Tree-ear has enormous respect for the adults in his life. One example of this is when he takes half of his dinner home to Crane-man each day so that his elder may have enough food to eat.
Loyalty
Tree-ear is extremely loyal. One example of this is when he offers to walk to Songdo so that Min may have his work presented to the palace.
Honor and Work Ethic
Tree-ear’s strong work ethic is evident throughout the book. One example of this is when he learns of Kang’s inlay technique, but resists telling Min about it, knowing that it would be dishonorable and wrong.
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 A Single Shard. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from A Single Shard 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.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
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. |
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 A Single Shard. 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 A Single Shard
Integrity
Tree-ear has a lot of integrity. One example of this is when Tree-ear sees a farmer whose seeds are falling out of his bag. Rather than stealing the seeds without the farmer ever knowing, Tree-ear tells the farmer of the hole in his bag.
Respect
Tree-ear has enormous respect for the adults in his life. One example of this is when he takes half of his dinner home to Crane-man each day so that his elder may have enough food to eat.
Loyalty
Tree-ear is extremely loyal. One example of this is when he offers to walk to Songdo so that Min may have his work presented to the palace.
Honor and Work Ethic
Tree-ear’s strong work ethic is evident throughout the book. One example of this is when he learns of Kang’s inlay technique, but resists telling Min about it, knowing that it would be dishonorable and wrong.
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 A Single Shard. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from A Single Shard 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.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
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 Tos about Themes in A Single Shard
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on Themes in A Single Shard
Encourage students to share and compare their identified themes by leading a whole-class discussion. Ask open-ended questions and invite students to explain their choices, helping them deepen their understanding and appreciate different perspectives.
Prompt students to use evidence from the text.
Encourage students to support their theme choices with specific quotes or events from the story. This reinforces critical thinking and helps students connect abstract ideas to concrete examples.
Assign small groups to explore different themes.
Divide the class into groups, giving each group a distinct theme to analyze. Let students collaborate on finding examples and illustrations, which builds teamwork and allows for deeper exploration of each theme.
Encourage students to create theme posters.
Ask groups or individuals to design posters that visually represent a chosen theme, using images, words, and quotes from the book. This hands-on activity boosts engagement and helps students synthesize their understanding creatively.
Wrap up with a reflection activity.
Have students reflect in writing on which theme resonated most with them and why. This personalizes learning and encourages meaningful connections to the story’s messages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in A Single Shard
What are the main themes in A Single Shard?
A Single Shard explores themes like integrity, respect, loyalty, and honor/work ethic. These central ideas shape Tree-ear's actions and the story's message about character and perseverance.
How can I teach themes from A Single Shard to my class?
Start by having students identify key themes such as integrity or loyalty. Ask them to find examples from the book and illustrate or describe them. Activities like storyboards help students visualize and discuss these themes in context.
What is an example of integrity in A Single Shard?
An example of integrity is when Tree-ear tells the farmer about the hole in his seed bag instead of taking the seeds for himself. This moment shows Tree-ear's honesty and strong moral principles.
Why is respect an important theme in A Single Shard?
Respect is key in the story, as Tree-ear consistently honors adults, like sharing his food with Crane-man. It shows the value of caring for elders and the importance of community in the novel.
What classroom activities help students explore themes in A Single Shard?
Effective activities include theme identification exercises, storyboard creation, and group discussions. These engage students in finding and illustrating examples of themes, deepening their comprehension and critical thinking.
More Storyboard That Activities
A Single Shard
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