Activity Overview
White Bird is filled with themes, symbolism, and motifs, all of which are helpful for students to analyze to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their journey. Students can explore this by identifying a theme, symbol or motif themselves or, in an “envelope activity” where they are given one or more to track throughout their reading. Then, students will create a storyboard illustrating the examples of that theme from the text.
Examples of Themes in White Bird
- The Holocaust
- Friendship
- Empathy
- Courage
- Bullying
- Family
- Prejudice
- Kindness
- Hope
Examples of Symbols and Motifs in White Bird
- White Bird
- Sarah's Sketchbook
- The Barn
- Milk for the La Fleurs
- The Wolves
- The Mernuit
- The Bluebells
- The school: L'ecole de Lafayette
- Tourteau's name
- Sara's Red Shoes
- The car in the barn
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 White Bird. Illustrate each symbol and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes, symbols, or motifs from White Bird 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.
Don't forget to check out our graphic novel ideas for even more inspiration!
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 Discuss the Themes of Holocaust and Prejudice in White Bird
Give Context and Background
Give the Holocaust some historical background to start. Describe how six million Jews, along with millions of other people, were systematically persecuted and killed by the Nazis throughout World War II. Explain the role of prejudice in these killings and how it is one of the most significant and sorrowful events in history.
Identify Themes in the Story
Give examples of where the graphic novel depicts the Holocaust and racism. Scenes of prejudice, persecution, or other types of abuse may be included. Students can highlight these specific events in the novel so they can use this information later for critical analysis or discussion.
Examine the Significance for Characters
Encourage the students to think about the impact racism has on not just Sara but also the other characters in the narrative. Discuss how their behavior and viewpoints are affected by fear, hatred, and prejudice. Students can also reflect on how prejudice played an important role in real-life events and ruined the lives of many innocent people.
Connect With Other Themes
Help the students recognize other themes present in the story and make a connection with the Holocaust and prejudice. Students can analyze how these themes impact each other and play an important role in the development of the narrative.
Make Theme Charts
Ask the students to make theme charts for all the themes present in the story. Students can include the context, impact on characters, development, and comparison with real events in these theme charts. This will help the students get a holistic view of the themes and understand their interconnectedness and contribution to the story.
Frequently Asked Questions About White Bird Themes, Symbols, and Motifs
What are some of the key central ideas present in the story?
The Holocaust, prejudice, resiliency, courage, identity, compassion, and the persuasiveness of narrative are among the major themes of "White Bird." These ideas play an important role in conveying to the readers the challenges people had to face during that time and how history should not be ignored.
What is the significance of the Holocaust in the narrative?
Since "White Bird" focuses on the experiences of Sara, a Jewish girl, at this terrible time in history, the Holocaust is a major topic. It explores the difficulties she endures, the threats she meets, and her battle for survival. The story also wants to relay this event to young readers and help them understand the feelings of the people who suffered.
What role does the white bird play in the story?
The white bird is a representation of liberation, optimism, and the potential for a brighter future. It stands for fortitude and the inborn human drive to triumph over challenges. The white bird is especially significant for Sara as it represented her past before she was trapped while trying to escape from the Nazis.
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