Activity Overview
Several themes are present in the novel. Students can pick a theme to explore, and should support their choice with specific details or events from the text. One prominent theme is “new beginnings”. The characters in the story are all searching for something new to light their lives.
New Beginnings
Example 1Sarah is a new beginning for Anna, Caleb, and their father. The family will always miss their mother, but are desperately in need of a new light in their life.
Example 2
Anna, Caleb, and Jacob are a new beginning for Sarah. They are a chance for Sarah to make a new life, now that her family in Maine no longer needs her help.
Other themes that could be used are family, or abandonment.
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 a theme in Sarah, Plain and Tall. Illustrate examples and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme in the story and write it on the row.
- Find three examples of the theme in the text and describe one in each cell.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
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
Several themes are present in the novel. Students can pick a theme to explore, and should support their choice with specific details or events from the text. One prominent theme is “new beginnings”. The characters in the story are all searching for something new to light their lives.
New Beginnings
Example 1Sarah is a new beginning for Anna, Caleb, and their father. The family will always miss their mother, but are desperately in need of a new light in their life.
Example 2
Anna, Caleb, and Jacob are a new beginning for Sarah. They are a chance for Sarah to make a new life, now that her family in Maine no longer needs her help.
Other themes that could be used are family, or abandonment.
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 a theme in Sarah, Plain and Tall. Illustrate examples and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify a theme in the story and write it on the row.
- Find three examples of the theme in the text and describe one in each cell.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
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 Themes in Sarah Plain and Tall
How to Facilitate a Classroom Discussion on Theme in 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'
Begin by asking students to share their initial thoughts about the story's main ideas. Encourage each student to give one-word responses or short phrases that capture what stood out to them. This sets the stage for a focused discussion on theme.
Guide students in identifying supporting details for chosen themes
Prompt students to find specific quotes or moments in the text that relate to their selected theme. Model how to cite page numbers and briefly describe the context to help students practice evidence-based discussion.
Encourage students to make personal connections to the theme
Invite students to relate the theme to their own lives or to current events. Ask open-ended questions like, 'Have you ever experienced a new beginning?' This deepens engagement and relevance.
Summarize key points collaboratively as a class
Work together to list the main themes and supporting details on the board or a shared digital document. Encourage students to help clarify or expand on each other's ideas to reinforce understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in Sarah Plain and Tall
What are the main themes in 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
'Sarah, Plain and Tall' explores key themes such as new beginnings, family, and abandonment. The story highlights how characters seek fresh starts and the importance of finding connection and belonging.
How can students identify a theme in 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
Students can identify a theme by looking for recurring ideas or messages in the story, then supporting their choice with specific details or events from the text, such as how Sarah brings hope to Anna, Caleb, and their father.
What is an example of the 'new beginnings' theme in 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
An example of new beginnings is when Sarah arrives to join Anna, Caleb, and their father, offering the family a chance for happiness after losing their mother. Sarah herself also seeks a fresh start with them.
What activities help students explore themes in 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
Teachers can have students create storyboards that identify a theme, illustrate examples, and write short descriptions. This helps students visualize and explain the theme using scenes and characters from the book.
Why is understanding theme important when teaching 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' to students?
Understanding theme helps students connect personally with the story and recognize universal messages about family, hope, and change, deepening their comprehension and engagement with literature.
More Storyboard That Activities
Sarah, Plain and Tall
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