Activity Overview
There are many symbols and motifs present throughout the novel Amina's Voice. In this activity, students will identify symbols and motifs and illustrate examples from the text. Students can explore by identifying these elements themselves or in an “envelope activity”, where they are given one or more to track throughout their reading. Then, they'll create a spider map illustrating what they found!
Examples of Symbols and Motifs in Amina's Voice
- Names
- Food
- Soojin's Treasure Chest Pendant
- 'The Voice' the T.V. Show
- Amina's Voice
- Music
- Public Speaking
- Song: "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke
- Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition
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, symbols, or motifs found in Amina's Voice. Illustrate each and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes, symbols, or motifs from Amina's Voice you wish to include and type them in the title box at the top.
- Create an image for examples that represent each symbol using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the examples in the black text box.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Symbol(s) | All symbols are correctly identified as objects that represent something else at a higher level in the story. | Most symbols are correctly identified, but some objects are missing or are incorrectly identified as significant symbols. | No symbols are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified symbols. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified symbols. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified symbols. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the symbols and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the symbols but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the symbols. |
Activity Overview
There are many symbols and motifs present throughout the novel Amina's Voice. In this activity, students will identify symbols and motifs and illustrate examples from the text. Students can explore by identifying these elements themselves or in an “envelope activity”, where they are given one or more to track throughout their reading. Then, they'll create a spider map illustrating what they found!
Examples of Symbols and Motifs in Amina's Voice
- Names
- Food
- Soojin's Treasure Chest Pendant
- 'The Voice' the T.V. Show
- Amina's Voice
- Music
- Public Speaking
- Song: "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke
- Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition
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, symbols, or motifs found in Amina's Voice. Illustrate each and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes, symbols, or motifs from Amina's Voice you wish to include and type them in the title box at the top.
- Create an image for examples that represent each symbol using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the examples in the black text box.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Symbol(s) | All symbols are correctly identified as objects that represent something else at a higher level in the story. | Most symbols are correctly identified, but some objects are missing or are incorrectly identified as significant symbols. | No symbols are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified symbols. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified symbols. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified symbols. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the symbols and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the symbols but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the symbols. |
How Tos about Symbols and Motifs in Amina\'s Voice
Engage students in discussing the significance of symbols and motifs
Start by asking students what they notice about the recurring objects or ideas in the novel. Encourage open conversation to let students share their thoughts and make personal connections.
Model how to identify a new symbol or motif together
Choose a section of the book and read it aloud as a class. Pause when you spot a possible symbol or motif, and think aloud about why it might be important.
Guide students in creating a class anchor chart
Record each discovered symbol or motif on a visible chart. Invite students to help fill in details and add illustrations. This chart will act as a reference point throughout the unit.
Assign small groups to find new examples in later chapters
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a different chapter or section. Challenge them to find fresh examples of symbols and motifs, then report back to the class.
Reflect with exit tickets about how symbols and motifs deepen understanding
Ask students to write a brief exit ticket at the end of the lesson. Prompt them to explain how a symbol or motif helped them better understand a character or theme in the story.
Frequently Asked Questions about Symbols and Motifs in Amina\'s Voice
What are the main symbols and motifs in Amina's Voice?
Key symbols and motifs in Amina's Voice include names, food, Soojin's treasure chest pendant, the TV show 'The Voice', Amina's own voice, music, public speaking, the song "A Change is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke, and Quran memorization and recitation. These elements help convey deeper themes and character development throughout the novel.
How can I teach symbols and motifs in Amina's Voice to middle school students?
Engage students by having them identify symbols and motifs as they read, either independently or through an 'envelope activity.' Then, ask students to create a spider map or storyboard that illustrates and explains each example, fostering analytical thinking and discussion.
What is an envelope activity for teaching motifs in literature?
An envelope activity involves giving students envelopes containing specific motifs or symbols to track as they read. This strategy encourages close reading and collaborative exploration of recurring elements in the text.
Can you give examples of how music is used as a motif in Amina's Voice?
Music in Amina's Voice appears through Amina's love for singing, her experiences with public speaking, and references to impactful songs like "A Change is Gonna Come." These moments highlight her growth, identity, and connection to community.
Why are symbols and motifs important in studying Amina's Voice?
Symbols and motifs help students uncover deeper meanings in the story, such as cultural identity, friendship, and personal growth. Discussing these elements enhances comprehension and critical thinking skills.
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