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 the main theme in Anansi the Spider and support the theme with evidence from the text. One theme is the importance of working together to get the job done. Teachers may choose to assign themes, or have students identify the lessons or themes themselves.
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 a recurring theme in Anansi the Spider. Illustrate an example and write a short description.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme from Anansi the Spider that you wish to include and type it in the heading.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short description.
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 the main theme in Anansi the Spider and support the theme with evidence from the text. One theme is the importance of working together to get the job done. Teachers may choose to assign themes, or have students identify the lessons or themes themselves.
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 a recurring theme in Anansi the Spider. Illustrate an example and write a short description.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme from Anansi the Spider that you wish to include and type it in the heading.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short description.
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 Theme of Anansi the Spider
Introduce the theme of teamwork through a class discussion
Begin by asking students what teamwork means and why it might be important in stories and real life. Connect their responses to Anansi the Spider to set the stage for deeper exploration.
Guide students to find examples of teamwork in the story
Encourage students to look for moments in the text where characters work together to solve problems. This helps them practice close reading and strengthens their understanding of the theme.
Model how to create a theme storyboard as a class
Show students how to select a scene, draw a simple illustration, and write a description that highlights the theme of working together. Use a whiteboard or projector for a visual demonstration.
Support students as they plan and sketch their own storyboard scenes
Offer sentence starters and brainstorming time so each student can choose a scene that best represents teamwork in the story. Circulate to provide feedback and encouragement.
Facilitate a gallery walk for students to share and discuss their work
Let students display their completed storyboards around the classroom. Invite them to walk around, view each other's work, and discuss how each scene shows the theme of working together.
Frequently Asked Questions about Theme of Anansi the Spider
What is the main theme of Anansi the Spider?
The main theme of Anansi the Spider is the importance of working together to solve problems and achieve goals. The story shows how cooperation and teamwork help Anansi and his family succeed.
How can students identify a theme in Anansi the Spider?
Students can identify a theme by looking for recurring ideas or lessons in the story. They should pay attention to what the characters learn, how they solve problems, and any repeated messages about values like teamwork or cleverness.
What is an example of teamwork in Anansi the Spider?
An example of teamwork in Anansi the Spider is when Anansi's sons use their unique skills to rescue him from danger. Each son contributes in a different way, showing that working together is essential.
What are some other possible themes in Anansi the Spider?
Other possible themes in Anansi the Spider include using intelligence to solve problems, the value of family, and the importance of helping others.
What is a simple classroom activity to teach theme using Anansi the Spider?
A simple activity is to have students create a storyboard that identifies a theme from the story. They can draw an example scene and write a short description explaining how it shows the theme.
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