- Objective:
- Understand the concept of themes in picture books and graphic novels
- Learn how to identify and analyse themes in a story
- Develop the ability to write and select a theme for a picture book or graphic novel
- Note:
After this lesson, you will have to introduce the CaL theme for this year and ensure students understand it thoroughly.
- Resources:
- Picture books and graphic novels with various themes
- Chart paper or whiteboard
- Markers or chalk
- Writing materials (paper, pencils, etc.)
- Time: 40-60 min
- Introduction (05 mins):
Begin the lesson by discussing the definition of a theme and its importance in storytelling.
- Understanding Themes (10-12 min):
- The teacher explains that themes are the underlying messages or main ideas conveyed in a story.
- Provide examples of common themes such as friendship, courage, perseverance, or kindness.
- Discuss how themes can be expressed through characters, plot events, or symbolism.
- Engage students by asking them to share their favourite picture books or graphic novels and what themes they believe are present in those stories.
Examples of Text (from Storyweaver)
-
- Who Stole Bhaiya’s Smile – Theme: Well being not being happy
- A Tiny Seed the Story – Theme: Environment, not trees
- Harshita’s Family – Theme: Family and relationships and not that she has many relationships with a father, mother, and cousins
- Theme Exploration (15 min):
- Distribute picture books and graphic novels with various themes among the students. ( in groups of 2-4 students)
- Instruct students ( in groups of 2-4 students) to read their assigned books and identify the themes present.
- Encourage them to take notes on specific events, character actions, or dialogue that support their chosen theme.
- Theme Analysis (10 min):
- Gather students in a group discussion and ask them to share their identified themes and supporting evidence by asking them – How do you know that? What makes you say that?
- Create a chart on the board or chart paper with columns for different themes and corresponding examples from the stories.
- Understanding the Theme (10-12 minutes):
Read the theme document for the story project for this year. Discuss the theme in detail with students.
- Closure of Lesson (05-08 min):
Summarise the importance of themes in picture books, emphasising how they enhance the reader’s understanding.