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 in The One-Eyed Giant is hospitality.
Hospitality
Throughout his journey, Odysseus and his men are continually tossed into different settings. On each island, they believe that they are entitled to the custom of Greek hospitality. Hosts are expected to provide food, shelter, and protection to any traveler, and guest are expected to be respectful and grateful. In The One-Eyed Giant, breaking these rules brings misfortune and the disfavor of the gods.
"’We are not pirates,’ he said. ‘We are Greeks blown off course by storm winds. Will you offer us the gift of hospitality like a good host? If you do, mighty Zeus, king of the gods, will be pleased.’”
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 The One-Eyed Giant. 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.
- Click "Save & Exit" when 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 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 in The One-Eyed Giant is hospitality.
Hospitality
Throughout his journey, Odysseus and his men are continually tossed into different settings. On each island, they believe that they are entitled to the custom of Greek hospitality. Hosts are expected to provide food, shelter, and protection to any traveler, and guest are expected to be respectful and grateful. In The One-Eyed Giant, breaking these rules brings misfortune and the disfavor of the gods.
"’We are not pirates,’ he said. ‘We are Greeks blown off course by storm winds. Will you offer us the gift of hospitality like a good host? If you do, mighty Zeus, king of the gods, will be pleased.’”
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 The One-Eyed Giant. 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.
- Click "Save & Exit" when 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 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 Identify Themes in The One-Eyed Giant
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on Themes in The One-Eyed Giant
Encourage students to share their ideas about the novel's themes in a group setting. Class discussions help deepen understanding and allow students to learn from each other's perspectives.
Set clear discussion expectations
Explain the purpose of the discussion and outline respectful listening and speaking rules. This creates a safe environment where every student feels comfortable sharing.
Prompt students with open-ended questions
Ask questions like, "What examples of hospitality did you notice?" or "How did the characters respond to kindness or rudeness?" Open-ended questions invite deeper thinking and conversation.
Guide students to use evidence from the text
Remind students to support their ideas with specific events or quotes from The One-Eyed Giant. Using textual evidence strengthens their arguments and builds analytical skills.
Summarize key points and connect to real life
Wrap up the discussion by highlighting main ideas and asking how the theme of hospitality relates to students' own lives. Making connections helps students internalize the lesson.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identify Themes in The One-Eyed Giant
What are the main themes in The One-Eyed Giant?
The One-Eyed Giant explores themes such as hospitality, respect for customs, and consequences of breaking social rules. The story highlights how Odysseus and his men are impacted by the treatment they receive on different islands, emphasizing the importance of being a good host and guest.
How can students identify a theme in The One-Eyed Giant?
Students can identify a theme by looking for recurring ideas or messages throughout the story. They should support their choice with specific examples or events, such as how characters respond to hospitality or face consequences for their actions.
Why is hospitality important in The One-Eyed Giant?
Hospitality is a central theme because it's a respected Greek custom. The story shows that offering food, shelter, and protection brings favor from the gods, while denying or abusing hospitality leads to trouble for both hosts and guests.
What is an example of hospitality in The One-Eyed Giant?
An example is when Odysseus asks for shelter, saying, “Will you offer us the gift of hospitality like a good host?” This shows the expectation that travelers should be welcomed and treated well in Greek culture.
How do you create a storyboard to show a theme from The One-Eyed Giant?
To make a storyboard, identify a theme from the story, find three examples that illustrate it, and draw scenes for each. Add a brief description below each cell to explain how it relates to the theme.
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