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 Fish in a Tree. 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 Fish in a Tree
Identity
The three main characters in the story all have their own unique identity. Ally struggles with her learning disability and does not want it to become the only thing that people know her for. Keisha is one of the only African American kids in the class, and Albert is brainy and considered weird by the mean kids.
Self-Esteem
Ally struggles with her self-esteem throughout most of the novel, while Albert and Keisha seemingly have a great deal of confidence and don’t let things bother them.
Friendship
The theme of friendship is evident throughout the whole story. One example of the importance of friendship is when Albert fights the bullies who have hurt his friends.
Teaching
Ally acted out and constantly got into trouble until Mr. Daniels arrived and showed her that he cares and believes in her. She wanted to make him proud and truly respected him. Mr. Daniels saw Ally for who she was and gave her the confidence to succeed in life, and taught her that people learn in many different ways.
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 Fish in a Tree. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Fish in a Tree 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 Fish in a Tree. 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 Fish in a Tree
Identity
The three main characters in the story all have their own unique identity. Ally struggles with her learning disability and does not want it to become the only thing that people know her for. Keisha is one of the only African American kids in the class, and Albert is brainy and considered weird by the mean kids.
Self-Esteem
Ally struggles with her self-esteem throughout most of the novel, while Albert and Keisha seemingly have a great deal of confidence and don’t let things bother them.
Friendship
The theme of friendship is evident throughout the whole story. One example of the importance of friendship is when Albert fights the bullies who have hurt his friends.
Teaching
Ally acted out and constantly got into trouble until Mr. Daniels arrived and showed her that he cares and believes in her. She wanted to make him proud and truly respected him. Mr. Daniels saw Ally for who she was and gave her the confidence to succeed in life, and taught her that people learn in many different ways.
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 Fish in a Tree. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Fish in a Tree 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 Fish in a Tree Themes
Use storyboards to help students analyze character development in Fish in a Tree
Storyboards are powerful tools for visualizing how characters change over time. Encourage students to track key moments that reveal shifts in attitude, confidence, or relationships. This helps readers connect deeper with the characters and understand the story’s themes.
Assign each student a main character to follow throughout the story
When students focus on one character, they can notice details that might otherwise be missed. Ask students to jot down important actions, decisions, and feelings for their assigned character as they read.
Guide students to select pivotal scenes that show character growth
Have students identify two or three key scenes where their character changes, faces a challenge, or learns something new. This keeps the analysis focused and meaningful.
Have students illustrate each selected scene on their storyboard
Encourage creativity! Students can draw, use digital images, or collage to represent the character’s journey visually. This makes abstract changes more concrete and understandable.
Ask students to write a brief explanation under each illustration
Students should describe what is happening in the scene and explain how it shows the character’s development. This builds evidence-based writing skills and deepens comprehension.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fish in a Tree Themes
What are the main themes in Fish in a Tree?
Fish in a Tree explores themes such as identity, self-esteem, friendship, and the importance of teaching. The novel highlights how each character's unique challenges and strengths shape their experiences and relationships.
How can students identify themes in Fish in a Tree?
Students can identify themes by looking for recurring ideas, challenges, or messages throughout the story. They should pay attention to character actions, growth, and how problems are solved, then illustrate or describe examples from the text to support their chosen themes.
What is an example of the identity theme in Fish in a Tree?
The theme of identity is shown when Ally struggles with her learning disability and fears being defined by it, while Keisha and Albert each navigate being different in their own ways. Their journeys reflect the importance of embracing who you are.
Why is friendship important in Fish in a Tree?
Friendship provides support and encouragement for the main characters. For example, Albert stands up for his friends against bullies, showing that true friends help each other through difficult times and boost each other's confidence.
How does teaching impact Ally’s life in Fish in a Tree?
Mr. Daniels, Ally’s teacher, recognizes her potential and believes in her. His support helps Ally gain confidence, realize her unique strengths, and understand that people learn in many different ways.
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