Activity Overview
A theme is a central idea, subject, or message in a story. Many stories have more than one important theme. For this activity, students will identify and illustrate the themes in The One and Only Ivan. Teachers may want the students to identify and illustrate 3 themes, one for each cell, or identify one theme, and show three examples of it, one example per cell.
Examples of Themes in The One and Only Ivan
Friendship
The friendship between the animals, and between Julia and the animals, is prevalent throughout the whole story. The friendship between Ivan and Bob is particularly unique because they are so different in so many ways.
Loyalty
When Stella knows she is going to die, Ivan promises to take care of Ruby. Ivan works day and night to keep that promise.
Confinement
Ivan remembers when he was young and his family was captured or killed. He was the only one to survive, only to be confined in a small space for the entertainment of humans.
Loneliness
Many of the characters suffer from loneliness. For example, Mack, the owner, was left by his wife many years ago, and is clearly sad and lonely, and has been for a long time.
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 3 recurring themes in The One and Only Ivan. Illustrate instances of each theme and write a short description below each cell.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the themes from The One and Only Ivan you wish to include and write them in the headings.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short description of each of the examples.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified as important recurring topics or messages in the story. | Some themes are correctly identified, but others are missing or do not make sense with the story. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples | All examples support the identified themes. Descriptions clearly say why examples are significant. | Most examples fit the identified themes. Descriptions say why examples are significant. | Most examples do not fit the identified themes. Descriptions are unclear. |
| Depiction | Storyboard cells clearly show connection with the themes and help with understanding. | Most storyboard cells help to show the themes, but some storyboard cells are difficult to understand. | Storyboard cells do not help in understanding the themes. |
How to Teach Themes in 'The One and Only Ivan' Using Storyboards
Introduction to Themes and Storyboarding
Discuss the Themes: Start by introducing the major themes of "The One and Only Ivan" – such as friendship, freedom, animal rights, and the power of art. Use examples from the book to illustrate each theme. Explain Storyboarding: Introduce the concept of storyboarding as a tool for visual storytelling. Show examples of storyboards and explain how they can be used to depict and explore themes.
Group Brainstorming and Theme Selection
Group Activity: Divide the class into small groups. Assign each group a specific theme from the book or let them choose one. Brainstorming Session: Encourage groups to brainstorm ideas for their storyboard that best represent their chosen theme. They should identify key scenes, quotes, or characters from the book that embody the theme.
Creating the Storyboards
Storyboard Development: Guide students as they develop their storyboards. Each panel of the storyboard should represent a specific aspect or moment of the theme. Encourage them to include brief textual descriptions or quotes along with their illustrations. Artistic Expression: Allow students to be creative with their storyboards. They can draw by hand, use collage techniques, or even digital tools if available. The aim is to visually express how they interpret and understand the theme.
Presentation and Discussion
Presentations: Have each group present their storyboard to the class. Encourage them to explain their artistic choices and how each panel relates to the theme. Class Discussion: After each presentation, facilitate a class discussion. This should focus on how the storyboard captured the essence of the theme and what new insights were gained about the book through this activity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Themes in The One and Only Ivan
How does the theme of freedom vs. captivity play out in the novel?
The theme of freedom versus captivity is central to "The One and Only Ivan." Throughout the novel, the experiences of Ivan, a silverback gorilla, and his friends in the Big Top Mall are juxtaposed against their natural desires and instincts for a life in the wild. Ivan, having lived in captivity most of his life, initially appears resigned to his fate. However, as the story progresses, the arrival of Ruby, a young elephant, prompts him to reconsider the value of freedom and the injustices of their confinement. The contrast between Ivan's memories of the jungle and his current life in a cage at the mall highlights the stark differences between the natural world and captivity. This theme is poignantly explored through Ivan's growing awareness and subsequent actions to seek a better life for himself and Ruby, ultimately leading to their transfer to a more natural and fulfilling environment.
What role does friendship play in "The One and Only Ivan"?
Friendship is a poignant and powerful theme in "The One and Only Ivan." The relationships among Ivan, Stella, Ruby, and Bob provide emotional support and companionship, mitigating the bleakness of their captivity. Ivan's friendship with Stella, an older elephant, and Bob, a stray dog, is marked by shared experiences and mutual understanding. When Ruby arrives, she forms a bond with Stella, who becomes a motherly figure to her, and with Ivan, who becomes her protector. These friendships are not just sources of comfort; they are catalysts for change. It is the promise Ivan makes to Stella to take care of Ruby that drives the plot forward, exemplifying how deep bonds of friendship can motivate individuals to take action and face challenges they wouldn't otherwise confront.
What lessons can children and adults learn from the themes in the book?
"The One and Only Ivan" imparts several valuable lessons to both children and adults. The theme of freedom versus captivity encourages readers to reflect on the importance of living in an environment that allows for natural behavior and growth. The novel teaches empathy and compassion, urging readers to consider the emotional lives and well-being of animals, especially those in captivity. The power of friendship highlighted in the book shows the importance of connections and how they can provide strength in difficult times. Additionally, the story illustrates the significance of perseverance and hope. Ivan’s journey to ensure a better life for Ruby teaches resilience in the face of adversity and the impact one individual can have in making a difference. Lastly, the novel emphasizes the role of creativity and art as tools for expression and change, demonstrating how creativity can transcend barriers and communicate powerful messages. These themes collectively offer insights into respect for all living beings and the importance of taking action for what is right.
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