Activity Overview
Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a theme of “Zlateh the Goat”, and support it with evidence from the text. One theme is “trust”. Zlateh puts all of her trust in humans.
Trust
- “Zlateh trusted human beings. She knew that they always fed her and never did her any harm.”
- “She didn’t ask any questions even though she had an uncomfortable feeling of where Aaron was taking her.”
- “Zlateh’s bleating began to sound like crying. Those humans in whom she had so much confidence had dragged her into a trap.”
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 "Zlateh the Goat". 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
Themes, symbols, and motifs come alive when you use a storyboard. In this activity, students will identify a theme of “Zlateh the Goat”, and support it with evidence from the text. One theme is “trust”. Zlateh puts all of her trust in humans.
Trust
- “Zlateh trusted human beings. She knew that they always fed her and never did her any harm.”
- “She didn’t ask any questions even though she had an uncomfortable feeling of where Aaron was taking her.”
- “Zlateh’s bleating began to sound like crying. Those humans in whom she had so much confidence had dragged her into a trap.”
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 "Zlateh the Goat". 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 Themes in Zlateh the Goat
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on the Theme of Trust in 'Zlateh the Goat'
Engage your students in a guided discussion about trust by asking open-ended questions that connect the story to their own experiences. Encourage participation and build understanding together.
Prepare thought-provoking questions about trust
Write questions such as, “Why do you think Zlateh trusted Aaron?” or “Have you ever had to trust someone without knowing what would happen?” These questions help students relate personally and analyze the story’s key theme.
Set clear discussion expectations
Explain that everyone should listen respectfully, take turns, and support their ideas with examples from the story. This builds a safe and respectful classroom environment for sharing thoughts.
Use evidence from the text to support ideas
Encourage students to reference specific quotes or scenes when sharing their thoughts. Pointing to the text helps deepen understanding and keeps the discussion grounded.
Wrap up with a real-life connection activity
Ask students to share a time when they had to trust someone else, or when someone trusted them. This step personalizes the theme and makes learning meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in Zlateh the Goat
What is the main theme of 'Zlateh the Goat'?
The main theme of 'Zlateh the Goat' is trust. The story highlights how Zlateh places her full trust in humans, even in uncertain or difficult situations, reflecting the deep bond and faith between people and animals.
How can students identify themes in 'Zlateh the Goat' using a storyboard?
Students can identify themes by creating a storyboard that highlights key moments related to a theme, such as trust. Each cell should include an example from the text, an illustration, and a brief description to visually and textually support their analysis.
What are some examples of trust in 'Zlateh the Goat'?
Examples of trust in the story include Zlateh trusting humans for food and care, following Aaron without question, and remaining loyal even when feeling unsafe—showing her unwavering confidence in people.
Why is trust a significant theme for teaching 'Zlateh the Goat' to grades 4–5?
Trust is an accessible and meaningful theme for grades 4–5 because students can relate to its importance in relationships. Exploring trust through Zlateh’s experiences helps build empathy and critical thinking about loyalty and confidence in others.
What is the best way to help students illustrate literary themes in 'Zlateh the Goat'?
The best way is to have students create illustrated storyboards that pair direct evidence from the text with artwork. This visual approach supports comprehension and engagement with the story’s key messages.
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Zlateh the Goat
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