Activity Overview
There are many themes, symbols and motifs present throughout the novel The War That Saved My Life. Students can explore them by identifying a few and creating images and captions depicting examples from the text. Teachers can have students identify them individually, or assign them an “envelope activity”, in which they will be given one or more to track throughout their reading. Then, students will create a storyboard illustrating examples of themes, symbols, and motifs in the novel.
Examples of Themes, Symbols, and Motifs in The War That Saved My Life
- War
- Trauma
- Mental and Physical Abuse
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Freedom
- Coming of Age
- Self Esteem
- Cruelty
- Kindness
- Displacement
- Literacy
- Horseback riding
- Friendship
- Family
- Disability
- Bigotry
- Community
- Sacrifice
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: Create a storyboard that identifies recurring themes, symbols, or motifs found in The War That Saved My Life. Illustrate each symbol and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes, symbols or motifs from The War That Saved My Life you wish to include and type them in the title box at the top.
- Create an image for examples that represent each symbol using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- Write a description of each of the examples in the black text box.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Symbol(s) | All symbols are correctly identified as objects that represent something else at a higher level in the story. | Most symbols are correctly identified, but some objects are missing or are incorrectly identified as significant symbols. | No symbols are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified symbols. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified symbols. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified symbols. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the symbols and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the symbols but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the symbols. |
How To Facilitate a Discussion on the Theme of “Abuse” in Class
Specify Some Rules
Establish clear guidelines for a civil and inclusive dialogue. Stress the value of empathy, active listening, and avoiding judgment. Encourage the students to avoid generalizations and to talk from their own experiences or opinions. Tell the students to use respectful language and try to understand different perspectives and opinions.
Give Basic Overview
Discuss and define essential concepts connected to abuse at the outset (such as physical abuse, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, and neglect). Ensure that everyone is aware of the topic at hand. Teachers can also hold a discussion on different types of abuse and how many times they not not apparent and difficult to recognize.
Discuss Ada’s Perspective
Teachers can first talk about the type of abuse that Ada and Jamie were experiencing at the hands of their mother and organize a discussion on how it impacted their lives. For instance, Ada developed self-esteem and trust issues after the abuse. Teachers can discuss the effects of abuse and how it can change the lives of the victims as discussed in the book.
Talk About Help and Support
Give details about local organizations, helplines, and counselling services that are accessible to those who are being abused. Disclose contact information in private. Encourage the students to be understanding of other’s situations and always ask for help if they or someone they know is experiencing any form of abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Themes, Symbols, and Motifs in The War That Saved My Life
What role does Ada's clubfoot play in the story's themes?
Ada's clubfoot is a key component of her identity and a tangible representation of the trauma she experiences on an emotional and physical level. She represents her larger path towards independence and self-worth by learning to walk and working towards self-acceptance. The representation of disability and Ada’s self-esteem issues build the narrative and help her character growth and development.
How does the theme of freedom manifest itself in the narrative?
The theme of freedom is prevalent, especially for Ada. She is physically and emotionally imprisoned at the start of the novel. She achieves emotional liberation as Susan's love and support help her, and she wins physical freedom as she learns to walk. Students can look at the narrative holistically to understand this theme and Ada’s perspective regarding freedom.
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