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 New Kid. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate two themes, one for each part of the graphic novel storyboard, or identify one theme and show two examples of it, one example per cell.
Examples of Themes in New Kid
Racial Prejudice
There are many examples of racial prejudice as Jordan navigates through the story. One example is when Ms. Rawle often calls the African American boys by each other’s names without even thinking about who she is talking to. Another example is when Andy tells Jordan that he would like the math teacher, Mr. Garner, because he is also African American.
Friendship
Jordan and Liam become friends almost instantly, even though they come from two very different worlds. Jordan also becomes close friends with Drew, as they have a lot in common. It doesn’t even occur to Jordan that all three of them should hang out until one day when his gran’pa suggests it.
Social Classism
Most of the students at Riverdale are from very wealthy families. Jordan and Drew, however, are on financial aide and are embarrassed when one of the teachers talks about it in front of everyone.
Bullying
Andy is a typical bully. He is constantly making fun of anyone who he sees as “different” or “weird”. Andy has some followers, but for the most part, the kids see what he’s really like and don’t let him get to them.
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 New Kid. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from New Kid 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 New Kid. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate two themes, one for each part of the graphic novel storyboard, or identify one theme and show two examples of it, one example per cell.
Examples of Themes in New Kid
Racial Prejudice
There are many examples of racial prejudice as Jordan navigates through the story. One example is when Ms. Rawle often calls the African American boys by each other’s names without even thinking about who she is talking to. Another example is when Andy tells Jordan that he would like the math teacher, Mr. Garner, because he is also African American.
Friendship
Jordan and Liam become friends almost instantly, even though they come from two very different worlds. Jordan also becomes close friends with Drew, as they have a lot in common. It doesn’t even occur to Jordan that all three of them should hang out until one day when his gran’pa suggests it.
Social Classism
Most of the students at Riverdale are from very wealthy families. Jordan and Drew, however, are on financial aide and are embarrassed when one of the teachers talks about it in front of everyone.
Bullying
Andy is a typical bully. He is constantly making fun of anyone who he sees as “different” or “weird”. Andy has some followers, but for the most part, the kids see what he’s really like and don’t let him get to them.
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 New Kid. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from New Kid 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 New Kid
Integrate Theme Discussions into Everyday Lessons
Connect literary themes to daily subjects by referencing them during your regular lessons. For example, when teaching about community in social studies, highlight how friendship or social classism appears in 'New Kid.' This helps students see real-world relevance and deepens their understanding.
Facilitate Small Group Theme Debates
Divide students into small groups and assign each group a theme from 'New Kid.' Have them discuss whether the theme is portrayed positively or negatively, backing up their arguments with examples from the book. This encourages critical thinking and helps students respectfully consider multiple viewpoints.
Encourage Students to Relate Themes to Their Own Lives
Ask students to share personal experiences or stories that connect to the themes in 'New Kid.' Prompt reflection with questions like, "Have you ever felt left out like Jordan?" This builds empathy and helps students make meaningful connections.
Design Quick Theme Exit Tickets
End each lesson with a one-minute exit ticket where students write or draw how a theme from 'New Kid' showed up in the day’s lesson or in their own experiences. This checks understanding and reinforces learning without taking much class time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in New Kid
What are the main themes in New Kid by Jerry Craft?
New Kid explores key themes such as racial prejudice, friendship, social class differences, and bullying. These themes highlight challenges faced by the main character, Jordan, as he navigates a new school and forms relationships.
How can students identify themes in New Kid for a classroom activity?
Students can identify themes in New Kid by looking for recurring ideas or issues throughout the story. They should find specific examples, like scenes showing friendship or racial prejudice, and illustrate or describe them to show understanding.
Why is discussing racial prejudice an important theme in New Kid?
Discussing racial prejudice in New Kid helps students understand how bias and stereotypes can affect individuals in school environments, promoting empathy and awareness of diversity and inclusion issues.
What is a simple lesson plan for teaching themes from New Kid in grades 4-6?
A simple lesson plan involves having students read selected scenes, identify two key themes, illustrate each on a storyboard, and write short descriptions. This activity encourages comprehension and creative expression.
How do friendship and social class differences interact in New Kid?
Friendship in New Kid often crosses social class lines, as seen with Jordan, Liam, and Drew. The story shows both the challenges and strengths that come from forming friendships with people from different backgrounds.
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