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 create a storyboard that identifies and illustrates the themes in Lily’s Crossing.
Examples of Themes in Lily’s Crossing
Honesty
Throughout the book, Lily finds herself telling lies and getting lost in the lies that she has told. This constantly worries her, and she wonders why she lies. Lily learns that her big lies can get her in trouble, and even be dangerous to herself and others.
Friendship
Lily has two close friends in the novel, Margaret and Albert. When Lily first meets Albert, she thinks he’s strange and does not want to get to know him. She learns that he is a true friend and their friendship evolves and grows throughout the story.
Family
Lily and Albert both have lost family members, but continue to have a strong family value. The love and bond of family is consistent throughout the novel.
Grief
Lily and Albert have both experienced grief, and this makes them closer. The theme of grief is present a great deal in many ways: losing family, missing people, the toll of war, and fear of losing loved ones.
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 Lily's Crossing. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Lily’s Crossing 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 create a storyboard that identifies and illustrates the themes in Lily’s Crossing.
Examples of Themes in Lily’s Crossing
Honesty
Throughout the book, Lily finds herself telling lies and getting lost in the lies that she has told. This constantly worries her, and she wonders why she lies. Lily learns that her big lies can get her in trouble, and even be dangerous to herself and others.
Friendship
Lily has two close friends in the novel, Margaret and Albert. When Lily first meets Albert, she thinks he’s strange and does not want to get to know him. She learns that he is a true friend and their friendship evolves and grows throughout the story.
Family
Lily and Albert both have lost family members, but continue to have a strong family value. The love and bond of family is consistent throughout the novel.
Grief
Lily and Albert have both experienced grief, and this makes them closer. The theme of grief is present a great deal in many ways: losing family, missing people, the toll of war, and fear of losing loved ones.
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 Lily's Crossing. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from Lily’s Crossing 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 Lily\'s Crossing
How To Facilitate a Class Discussion on Themes in Lily's Crossing
Start with an open-ended question about the story's main ideas. This encourages students to think critically and share their interpretations.
Prepare theme-specific prompts ahead of time
Write 2–3 guiding questions for each major theme, such as honesty or friendship. Having prompts ready keeps the conversation focused and inclusive.
Encourage students to connect themes to real life
Ask students to share examples from their own experiences that relate to the story's themes. This deepens understanding and makes learning personal.
Use visual aids to map theme connections
Create a chart or mind map on the board showing how events and characters link to each theme. Visuals help students organize ideas and see patterns.
Wrap up with a reflective exit slip
Have each student write one sentence about which theme in Lily's Crossing stood out to them and why. This closes the discussion and provides insight into student thinking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in Lily\'s Crossing
What are the main themes in Lily's Crossing?
Lily's Crossing explores several key themes including honesty, friendship, family, and grief. These themes help students understand the characters’ actions and the story’s deeper messages.
How can students identify themes in Lily's Crossing?
Students can identify themes by looking for recurring ideas, events, and character experiences throughout the book. Creating a storyboard that highlights examples and provides descriptions helps make these themes clear.
What is a storyboard activity for teaching themes in Lily's Crossing?
A storyboard activity involves students selecting major themes, illustrating scenes that represent each theme, and writing a short description. This visual approach makes it easier to understand and discuss literary themes.
Why is honesty an important theme in Lily's Crossing?
Honesty is central because Lily often struggles with telling the truth. Her journey shows students the consequences of lying and emphasizes why being truthful matters for personal growth and relationships.
What grade levels are suitable for Lily's Crossing theme activities?
Lily's Crossing theme activities are designed for students in grades 4–6, making them ideal for upper elementary and early middle school classrooms.
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