Activity Overview
Having students choose a memorable quote or piece of dialogue from a book allows them to express which parts of the story resonated with them on a personal level. In this way, students are making a text-to-self connection that demonstrates their understanding of the characters and their development or the themes of the novel. Students can share their storyboards afterwards and have a short discussion about what the quote or dialogue means to them and why they chose it.
Some students may end up choosing the same quote or dialogue, but have different perspectives. This is always interesting for students to see and can open up a discussion as to how not everyone can read the same lines in the same way based on their own perspectives and personal experiences.
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 a memorable quote or dialogue in Towers Falling. Illustrate your quote and write what it means to you.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose a favorite quote or dialogue from Towers Falling.
- Create an image that represents this quote or dialogue using appropriate scenes, characters and items.
- In the description box, write the quote or dialogue and at least one sentence about what it means to you.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explanation | The explanation of what the quote means to the student is clear and at least two sentences. | The explanation of what the quote means to the student can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The explanation of what the quote means to the student is unclear and is not at least two sentences. |
| Illustrations | The illustration represents the quote or explanation using appropriate scenes, characters and items. | The illustration relates to the quote or explanation, but is difficult to understand. | The illustration does not clearly relate to the quote or the explanation. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How To Help Students Compare Two Characters in Towers Falling
Read and Discuss the Story
Ask the students to read the story thoroughly and highlight any important points for discussion. Discuss the story, the characters, the setting, and the main idea of the narrative to help students get a deeper understanding of the themes and the end lesson intended by the author.
Highlight the Main and Side Characters
Encourage the students to make a list of all the main characters and the supporting characters in the story. Students can then discuss the events surrounding each character and how their decisions impact the overall story and the lives of other characters in the story.
Pick Characters for Comparison
Once students have had an in-depth discussion about the characters, they can choose any two characters they find interesting for comparison. For instance, comparing the character of Dejas’s father with her teacher Miss Garcia. Both characters are linked through Deja but each brings an interesting perspective into the narrative.
Make a Venn Diagram
For a visual representation of the similarities and contrasts between the two characters, have students design a Venn diagram or chart. Encourage them to take into account factors including age, cultural background, family structure, personality qualities, and 9/11-related experiences.
Draw Relationships Between Characters
Examine how the characters relate to one another and interact with one another. How do they communicate with one another? Do they disagree or agree on anything? What role do these interactions have in the growth of their personalities? Students can present their own analysis of the relationships between characters (if any) in the story and even use visual elements for this depiction.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Memorable Quote from Towers Falling
What are a few of the difficulties the characters deal with in the narrative?
The characters struggle to comprehend the meaning of 9/11, navigate their own family history, and establish relationships with one another. Especially Deja who fails to understand why she is being forced to study about events that have already happened with all the other responsibilities on her shoulders.
What does "This isn't history, this is our life” mean and how does this line highlight the main idea behind the narrative?
The author is highlighting the fact that the 9/11 attacks were very personal experiences that changed their lives and identities, not just distant historical facts. The main idea of the book, the profound and personal effects that historical events like 9/11 have on people and communities, is encapsulated in this quotation. It especially addresses the concerns of the students who do not understand the significance of historical events and how these events impact their lives and the lives of the people around them.
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