Activity Overview
Stories, parables, and literature allow students to visualize different people, holidays, customs, and traditions within a particular religion in a more concrete way. There are many books related to Hinduism that teachers can use to help students form a deeper understanding of the religion and the people who practice it. In this activity, students will illustrate the plot of a Hindu story.
The tale of Rama and Sita is an Indian love story, and is the story of Diwali. Their story began in a time of many gods and magic. Rama was the son of King Ayodya, and next in line for the throne. However, one day his evil stepmother banished him into exile with Sita, his new wife. She did this so her son may take the throne.
While in the forest, the beautiful Sita came across a white deer and asked Rama to catch it for her. While Rama was chasing it, a demon god appeared and kidnapped Sita and flew her back to his island, Lanka. For many months, her husband searched frantically for her and then finally asked the king of the monkey army to help him because the king of the monkeys could fly and would be able to go rescue her.
He found Sita, who was imprisoned, and helped her escape. Knowing it would bring a great battle upon them, they prepared for war. It was one of the greatest battles ever, lasting 10 long days. Just when they thought the demon king was going to win, Rama borrowed a bow and arrow from a god and shot the demon, winning the battle. After winning, Rama and Sita traveled back to their kingdom. On the way, the local villagers lit clay oil lamps, known as diyas, in their windows to guide the lover’s home where Rama and Sita ruled.
It is custom now that every year, Hindus celebrate this story on Diwali, the Festival of Lights, by lighting diyas inside their homes and setting off fireworks.
There are many other engaging books that introduce students to the traditional folktales and stories from Hinduism. Here are some suggestions:
- Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali by Malachy Doyle
- The Story of Diwali: Rama & Sita. The Ramayana Adapted for Children by Jay Anika
- The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India by Marcia Williams
- Classic Tales from India: How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head and Other Stories by Vatsala Sperling
- Indian Children's Favorite Stories: Fables, Myths and Fairy Tales by Rosemarie Somaiah
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: After listening to the story of Rama and SIta, create a narrative storyboard that includes important details from the beginning, middle and end of the story.
Student Instructions:
- In about 3-5 cells, write the major details of the story in order of occurrence.
- Add appropriate scenes, characters and items to illustrate each cell. The Creator has each animal from the story.
Requirements: Beginning, Middle and End of the story Rama and Sita.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot | Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding. | Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images. | Images do not make sense with the summary. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
Activity Overview
Stories, parables, and literature allow students to visualize different people, holidays, customs, and traditions within a particular religion in a more concrete way. There are many books related to Hinduism that teachers can use to help students form a deeper understanding of the religion and the people who practice it. In this activity, students will illustrate the plot of a Hindu story.
The tale of Rama and Sita is an Indian love story, and is the story of Diwali. Their story began in a time of many gods and magic. Rama was the son of King Ayodya, and next in line for the throne. However, one day his evil stepmother banished him into exile with Sita, his new wife. She did this so her son may take the throne.
While in the forest, the beautiful Sita came across a white deer and asked Rama to catch it for her. While Rama was chasing it, a demon god appeared and kidnapped Sita and flew her back to his island, Lanka. For many months, her husband searched frantically for her and then finally asked the king of the monkey army to help him because the king of the monkeys could fly and would be able to go rescue her.
He found Sita, who was imprisoned, and helped her escape. Knowing it would bring a great battle upon them, they prepared for war. It was one of the greatest battles ever, lasting 10 long days. Just when they thought the demon king was going to win, Rama borrowed a bow and arrow from a god and shot the demon, winning the battle. After winning, Rama and Sita traveled back to their kingdom. On the way, the local villagers lit clay oil lamps, known as diyas, in their windows to guide the lover’s home where Rama and Sita ruled.
It is custom now that every year, Hindus celebrate this story on Diwali, the Festival of Lights, by lighting diyas inside their homes and setting off fireworks.
There are many other engaging books that introduce students to the traditional folktales and stories from Hinduism. Here are some suggestions:
- Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali by Malachy Doyle
- The Story of Diwali: Rama & Sita. The Ramayana Adapted for Children by Jay Anika
- The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India by Marcia Williams
- Classic Tales from India: How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head and Other Stories by Vatsala Sperling
- Indian Children's Favorite Stories: Fables, Myths and Fairy Tales by Rosemarie Somaiah
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: After listening to the story of Rama and SIta, create a narrative storyboard that includes important details from the beginning, middle and end of the story.
Student Instructions:
- In about 3-5 cells, write the major details of the story in order of occurrence.
- Add appropriate scenes, characters and items to illustrate each cell. The Creator has each animal from the story.
Requirements: Beginning, Middle and End of the story Rama and Sita.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot | Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding. | Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images. | Images do not make sense with the summary. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
How Tos about Rama and Sita Plot Diagram
Incorporate Diwali traditions into the Rama and Sita lesson
Add depth to your lesson by connecting the story of Rama and Sita to the Festival of Lights. Share how families celebrate Diwali by lighting diyas, decorating homes, and setting off fireworks to honor their return. This helps students see the story’s real-life impact and cultural significance.
Invite students to create their own diya lamps
Provide students with simple materials like clay or paper to make their own diyas. Encourage them to decorate their lamps with colorful designs, then discuss the meaning of light in the Diwali celebration. This hands-on activity builds engagement and cultural appreciation.
Guide a classroom discussion on story morals
Lead students in a conversation about the values demonstrated in the story, such as bravery, loyalty, or good overcoming evil. Ask questions to help them connect these lessons to their own lives. This promotes critical thinking and personal reflection.
Encourage students to retell the story from a new perspective
Ask students to choose a character (such as Sita, Hanuman, or a villager) and rewrite or act out the story from that viewpoint. This fosters creativity and helps students understand multiple perspectives in literature.
Assess understanding with a quick exit ticket
At the end of the lesson, give students a short prompt—like summarizing the story’s message or drawing their favorite scene. Collect these as exit tickets to gauge comprehension and reinforce learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rama and Sita Plot Diagram
What is the plot of the Rama and Sita story for middle school students?
The story of Rama and Sita follows Prince Rama, who is exiled to the forest with his wife Sita. When Sita is kidnapped by a demon king, Rama embarks on a rescue mission with the help of the monkey army. After a fierce battle, Rama defeats the demon king and returns home with Sita, guided by villagers lighting diyas. This tale is central to the celebration of Diwali.
How can I create a simple plot diagram for the Rama and Sita story?
To create a plot diagram, divide the story into beginning (Rama's exile and Sita's kidnapping), middle (Rama's search and battle to rescue Sita), and end (Rama and Sita's return with the lighting of diyas). Illustrate each part with key scenes and characters.
Why is the Rama and Sita story important to Diwali?
The Rama and Sita story is important to Diwali because it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Hindus celebrate by lighting diyas, just as villagers did to guide Rama and Sita home after their victory, marking the Festival of Lights.
What are some recommended children's books about Rama and Sita?
Recommended books include Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali by Malachy Doyle, The Story of Diwali: Rama & Sita. The Ramayana Adapted for Children by Jay Anika, and The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India by Marcia Williams. These are excellent for introducing students to Hindu folklore.
What are the main themes in the story of Rama and Sita?
Main themes include loyalty, courage, good vs. evil, and the importance of family and duty. The story also emphasizes the value of hope and guidance, as seen through the lighting of diyas during Diwali.
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