Activity Overview
Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a specific theme from the book Number the Stars, and support their choices with details from the text.
The example storyboard has scenes from the story that illustrate how characters in the book demonstrated bravery.
Bravery
- When running down the street, the girls are stopped by a Nazi Officer.
- Peter visits the scientist to help the Rebellion.
- When German soldiers stop Ellen, she has no idea that the handkerchief has a special solution on it that keeps the dogs from smelling. It is elemental in the escape plans that Uncle Henrik has.
- The Danish Jews had to be very brave to hide in the boat, not knowing if the dogs would be able to sniff them out, allowing for their capture.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies themes in Number the Stars. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme from Number the Stars.
- Create an image for examples that represent this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified and described. | Some themes are correctly identified. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples of Theme(s) | All examples support the identified theme(s). | Most examples fit the identified theme(s). | Most examples do not fit the theme(s). |
| Illustrate Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme(s). | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
Activity Overview
Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a specific theme from the book Number the Stars, and support their choices with details from the text.
The example storyboard has scenes from the story that illustrate how characters in the book demonstrated bravery.
Bravery
- When running down the street, the girls are stopped by a Nazi Officer.
- Peter visits the scientist to help the Rebellion.
- When German soldiers stop Ellen, she has no idea that the handkerchief has a special solution on it that keeps the dogs from smelling. It is elemental in the escape plans that Uncle Henrik has.
- The Danish Jews had to be very brave to hide in the boat, not knowing if the dogs would be able to sniff them out, allowing for their capture.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies themes in Number the Stars. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme from Number the Stars.
- Create an image for examples that represent this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified and described. | Some themes are correctly identified. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples of Theme(s) | All examples support the identified theme(s). | Most examples fit the identified theme(s). | Most examples do not fit the theme(s). |
| Illustrate Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme(s). | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
How Tos about Identifying Themes in Number the Stars
Organize a class discussion about themes before starting storyboards
Engage students by discussing common themes in literature and asking them to share examples from other books or movies. This builds background knowledge and helps everyone feel prepared before creating their own storyboards.
Model how to find text evidence for a theme
Read a short passage aloud and think aloud as you point out words or actions that show a theme. This demonstrates how to connect details to bigger ideas and gives students a clear example to follow.
Guide students to brainstorm multiple themes together
Invite students to work in pairs or small groups to list possible themes from the story. Sharing ideas encourages deeper thinking and helps everyone find a theme that interests them.
Support students in choosing visual elements for their storyboard
Encourage students to select images, colors, and symbols that represent their chosen theme. This makes their work more meaningful and helps them express understanding creatively.
Review and discuss finished storyboards as a class
Bring everyone together to share and explain their storyboards. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and allows students to see how themes can be represented in different ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identifying Themes in Number the Stars
What are the main themes in Number the Stars?
Number the Stars explores powerful themes such as bravery, friendship, and resistance against oppression. The story highlights how ordinary people show courage in dangerous times, especially during the Nazi occupation of Denmark.
How can I teach the theme of bravery in Number the Stars?
To teach the theme of bravery, have students identify moments when characters act courageously, such as helping friends escape or standing up to soldiers. Use storyboards to visually represent these scenes and discuss their significance in class.
What is a good activity for students to explore themes in Number the Stars?
A great activity is creating a storyboard where students pick a theme and illustrate scenes from the book that show this theme. They can add short descriptions to explain how each scene connects to the theme.
How do symbols and motifs enhance understanding of Number the Stars?
Symbols like the handkerchief and motifs such as stars deepen understanding by representing key ideas. For example, the handkerchief symbolizes clever resistance, while stars can represent hope and identity.
What are some examples of bravery in Number the Stars?
Examples of bravery include the girls facing Nazi officers, Peter helping the Rebellion, and Ellen hiding from soldiers. These moments show how characters risk their safety to protect others.
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