Activity Overview
Valuable aspects of any literary work are its themes, symbols, and motifs. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to understand without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements.
In this activity, students can chose a symbol from the poem and depict what they think it represents using a storyboard.
Wings
In this poem, wings symbolize a person's abilities.
- In the first stanza, they keep their wings by their side. The person doesn't think they can succeed.
- In the third stanza, the wings are open and ready for flight. The person realizes their potential.
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 examples of symbols in the poem.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the symbol in the heading.
- Explain the symbolism in the description.
- Add illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Theme, Symbol, or Motif | The idea or object is correctly identified as an important theme, symbol, or motif in the story. | The idea or object is correctly identified as important, but is mislabeled as theme, symbol, or motif. | The idea or object is not significant to the story. |
| Example and Description | The example supports the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Description clearly says why example is significant. | Most examples fit the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Description lacks significance to story. | Example does not fit the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Descriptions is unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cell clearly shows connection with the theme, symbol, or motif and helps with understanding. | Storyboard cell shows the theme, symbol, or motif, but some part is difficult to understand. | Storyboard cell does not help in understanding the theme, symbol, or motif. |
Activity Overview
Valuable aspects of any literary work are its themes, symbols, and motifs. Part of the Common Core ELA standards is to introduce and explain these complex concepts. However, abstract ideas are often difficult for students to understand without assistance. Using a storyboard, students can visually demonstrate their understanding of these concepts, and master analysis of literary elements.
In this activity, students can chose a symbol from the poem and depict what they think it represents using a storyboard.
Wings
In this poem, wings symbolize a person's abilities.
- In the first stanza, they keep their wings by their side. The person doesn't think they can succeed.
- In the third stanza, the wings are open and ready for flight. The person realizes their potential.
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 examples of symbols in the poem.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the symbol in the heading.
- Explain the symbolism in the description.
- Add illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identification of Theme, Symbol, or Motif | The idea or object is correctly identified as an important theme, symbol, or motif in the story. | The idea or object is correctly identified as important, but is mislabeled as theme, symbol, or motif. | The idea or object is not significant to the story. |
| Example and Description | The example supports the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Description clearly says why example is significant. | Most examples fit the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Description lacks significance to story. | Example does not fit the identified theme, symbol, or motif. Descriptions is unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cell clearly shows connection with the theme, symbol, or motif and helps with understanding. | Storyboard cell shows the theme, symbol, or motif, but some part is difficult to understand. | Storyboard cell does not help in understanding the theme, symbol, or motif. |
How Tos about Identifying Symbols in \"Your World\" by Georgia Douglas Johnson
How to Guide Students in Finding Symbols in Other Poems
Encourage students to look for repeating objects, words, or images in a poem. Point out that symbols are often used more than once to show importance.
Ask Students to Make Connections to Real Life
Prompt students to think about what the symbol might mean outside the poem. Discuss how wings could represent freedom or opportunity in their own lives.
Model Annotating a Poem Together
Read the poem aloud and highlight lines that might include symbols. Show how to jot notes in the margins about possible meanings.
Have Students Illustrate Their Chosen Symbol
Ask students to draw the symbol and what it stands for in the poem. Display their work to make abstract ideas more concrete and visible.
Facilitate a Class Discussion on Symbol Choices
Invite students to share their symbol and its meaning. Encourage respectful listening and new ideas about how symbols can be interpreted.
Frequently Asked Questions about Identifying Symbols in \"Your World\" by Georgia Douglas Johnson
What does the symbol of wings represent in 'Your World' by Georgia Douglas Johnson?
Wings in 'Your World' symbolize a person's abilities and potential. When the wings are kept by the side, it shows self-doubt. When they are open, it means the person is ready to realize their potential and succeed.
How can I teach symbols in poetry to elementary students using storyboards?
Use storyboards to help students visually connect symbols to their meanings. Ask them to pick a symbol from the poem, explain what it represents, and illustrate it with scenes or characters. This makes abstract ideas more concrete and engaging.
What are some easy ways to explain literary symbols to second or third graders?
Relate symbols to everyday objects (like a heart for love). Use visual aids, discuss examples from familiar stories, and encourage students to create drawings or storyboards to show what a symbol means in a poem.
Why is it important to teach themes and symbols in poetry at a young age?
Teaching themes and symbols early helps students develop critical thinking and reading comprehension. Understanding these elements prepares them to analyze more complex texts as they progress in school.
What steps should students follow to identify symbols in 'Your World'?
Students should: 1) Read the poem carefully; 2) Choose a symbol (like wings); 3) Write the symbol as a heading; 4) Explain its meaning; 5) Illustrate it with appropriate scenes; and 6) Save their assignment.
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