Activity Overview
There are many books related to Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony that can help students better visualize and understand the people, their history, and their experiences. Some short picture books can be used as a whole class read-alouds, where other longer books can be used as longer novel studies. In this activity, students will create a plot summary of the book using visuals and descriptions.
The book used for the example of this activity is Three Young Pilgrims by Cheryl Harness.Here are some suggestions for literature related to the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony:
- The Pilgrims’ First Thanksgiving by Ann McGovern
- If You Sailed on the Mayflower in 1620 by Ann McGovern
- Squanto's Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac
- Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl by Kate Waters
- Samuel Eaton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy by Kate Waters
- Tapenum's Day: A Wampanoag Indian Boy in Pilgrim Times by Kate Waters
- The Boy Who Fell Off the Mayflower by P.J. Lynch
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Summarize the story in a 3-5 storyboard describing the main events in the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
Student Instructions
- Read the story.
- Using the provided template, create a 3-5 cell storyboard with descriptions and illustrations showing the sequence of major events in the story.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plot | Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part. | One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information. | Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order. |
| Images | Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding. | Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images. | Images do not make sense with the summary. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding. | Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding. | Text is difficult to understand. |
How to Teach Visual Plot Summaries for Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony Literature Connections
Book Selection and Introduction
Select a book directly related to the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony and one that aligns with the curriculum. Provide a brief introduction to the book and its historical significance, emphasizing its connection to the Pilgrims.
Reading and Digital Tool Introduction
Assign the selected book for students to read independently or in groups. Simultaneously, introduce them to Storyboard That, an online platform for creating visual narratives. Provide a tutorial on using Storyboard That, covering the basics of creating storyboards and using its features for visual storytelling.
Visual Plot Summary Creation
Instruct students to use Storyboard That to create their visual plot summaries. They should select key events, characters, and settings from the book and represent them in a storyboard format. Encourage students to add captions, dialogue, and descriptions to their visuals to explain the significance of each element within the historical context of the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony.
Presentation and Discussion
Have students present their visual plot summaries created with Storyboard That to the class. During each presentation: Ask the presenting student to describe their visual elements and how they relate to the book's plot and historical context. Encourage classmates to provide feedback and engage in discussions about the Pilgrims' history as depicted in the book and as visualized in the storyboards. Conclude with a class discussion that explores how the Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony literature deepened their understanding of this historical period, and how using Storyboard That enhanced their comprehension and creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony Literature Connections
Do any literary works address the cultural exchange between the Pilgrims and Native Americans in Plymouth Colony?
Yes, several literary works delve into the cultural exchange between the Pilgrims and Native Americans in Plymouth Colony. One notable example is Nathaniel Philbrick's non-fiction book "Mayflower," which offers a detailed account of the interactions, alliances, and conflicts between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, particularly the Wampanoag tribe. This work provides insights into the complexities of their cultural exchange.
Are there contemporary novels or works of historical fiction that reimagine the Pilgrims' story in a modern context?
While not common, there are contemporary novels and works of historical fiction that reimagine the Pilgrims' story in modern settings or alternative contexts. One such example is Geraldine Brooks' "Caleb's Crossing," which explores the historical narrative through the eyes of a Wampanoag character who attends Harvard College, bridging the gap between two worlds.
How have literature and historical research evolved in shaping our understanding of the Pilgrims and their historical significance?
Over time, literature and historical research have evolved to provide a more nuanced understanding of the Pilgrims and their historical significance. While earlier accounts often portrayed them in a simplified, heroic light, contemporary works aim for greater accuracy and inclusivity. These newer perspectives consider the Pilgrims' flaws, the impact on Native Americans, and the broader context of colonization. Literature and historical research continue to challenge and expand our comprehension of this pivotal chapter in American history.
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