Activity Overview
Writers often look to historical events to develop relatable and thought-provoking storylines. When teaching The Hunger Games, the book has many correlations and similarities to events in history. In this activity, students will choose three events in the book, and will show how the event in the book relates to an event in history. It may be helpful for students to utilize the internet or school library for additional historical research, if such resources are available. In the example below, a parallel is drawn between the gladiatorial matches of ancient Rome, and the spectacle of the Hunger Games.
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
Identify events in The Hunger Games and illustrate the similarities between them and historical events.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Select and describe three events in The Hunger Games.
- Identify and describe similar historical events.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 25 Points | Emerging 19 Points | Beginning 13 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding of the story elements. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Textual Explanation | The text clearly and accurately describes all the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text clearly and accurately describes most of the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text fails to describe most of the scenes clearly and accurately. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
Writers often look to historical events to develop relatable and thought-provoking storylines. When teaching The Hunger Games, the book has many correlations and similarities to events in history. In this activity, students will choose three events in the book, and will show how the event in the book relates to an event in history. It may be helpful for students to utilize the internet or school library for additional historical research, if such resources are available. In the example below, a parallel is drawn between the gladiatorial matches of ancient Rome, and the spectacle of the Hunger Games.
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
Identify events in The Hunger Games and illustrate the similarities between them and historical events.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- Select and describe three events in The Hunger Games.
- Identify and describe similar historical events.
- Illustrate each example with appropriate characters, scenes, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 25 Points | Emerging 19 Points | Beginning 13 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding of the story elements. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Textual Explanation | The text clearly and accurately describes all the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text clearly and accurately describes most of the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text fails to describe most of the scenes clearly and accurately. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Comparing The Hunger Games to History
How can I help students make deeper connections between The Hunger Games and real-world history?
Encourage students to analyze the causes and consequences of both the fictional and historical events. Ask guiding questions to prompt critical thinking, such as 'Why did this event happen?' or 'What impact did it have on society?' This approach fosters deeper understanding and helps students see history as more than just dates and facts.
Guide students to use primary sources for their historical comparisons.
Direct students to locate and examine original documents, images, or firsthand accounts related to their chosen historical events. Using primary sources builds research skills and makes comparisons more authentic and engaging.
Facilitate collaborative group discussions on historical parallels.
Organize students into small groups to share their chosen events and discuss similarities and differences. Collaboration allows students to learn from each other’s perspectives and strengthens analytical thinking.
Help students create visual comparison charts.
Ask students to design side-by-side charts or Venn diagrams comparing Hunger Games events to real historical events. Visual aids make complex connections clearer and more memorable.
Connect discussion to students’ lives today.
Invite students to reflect on current events or issues that echo themes from The Hunger Games and history. Personal connections increase engagement and make learning more relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions about Comparing The Hunger Games to History
How can I compare events in The Hunger Games to real historical events for a classroom lesson?
To compare events in The Hunger Games to history, select three key events from the book and research similar moments in world history. For each, describe the event in both contexts and highlight parallels—such as comparing the Hunger Games arena to ancient Roman gladiator games. Use examples, characters, and illustrations to support your comparisons.
What are some historical events similar to those in The Hunger Games?
Events in The Hunger Games often mirror ancient Roman gladiatorial games, oppressive governments like those in totalitarian regimes, and historical uprisings or revolutions. These examples help students connect fiction to real-world history and understand broader themes of power and resistance.
Why is it valuable for students to compare The Hunger Games to history?
Comparing fiction to history helps students build critical thinking skills, recognize recurring themes, and deepen their understanding of both literature and historical events. This approach makes lessons more engaging and meaningful by relating them to real-world contexts.
What is the best way to structure a compare and contrast activity with The Hunger Games and historical events?
The best approach is to have students use a template: select three key events from the book, identify a matching historical event, describe similarities, and illustrate each example. Encourage research using the internet or library for richer comparisons.
Can you give examples of characters or scenes from The Hunger Games that parallel historical figures or events?
Katniss Everdeen parallels historical rebels or revolutionaries, while the Capitol reflects real-world oppressive regimes. The Games themselves resemble ancient gladiator battles, and the districts' uprisings can be compared to historical revolutions.
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