Exploring Symbolism in Literature

Curriculum Alignment

Subject: English Language Arts (ELA)
Grade Level: 8th Grade
Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.8.4 – Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.8.2 – Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.8.1 – Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Define symbolism and explain its purpose in literature.
2. Identify examples of symbolism in a short story or poem.
3. Analyze how symbolism enhances meaning and theme in a text.
4. Apply symbolism creatively in a short descriptive writing task.

Materials Needed

• Excerpt from "The Scarlet Ibis" by James Hurst (printed or projected)
• Whiteboard and markers
• Paper and pencils
• Small everyday objects (e.g., key, feather, clock, candle)

Lesson Structure

1. Warm-Up Activity (10 Minutes) – Symbolism in Everyday Life

• Begin by holding up an object (e.g., a key) and ask: “What does this symbolize in stories or movies?” (Possible answers: unlocking opportunities, secrets, freedom).
• Pass around different objects and ask students to quickly jot down a symbolic meaning for each.
• Discuss responses as a class.
• Connect this to literature: “Writers use everyday objects to represent deeper meanings—this is called symbolism.”

2. Mini-Lesson (15 Minutes) – Symbolism in "The Scarlet Ibis"

• Provide students with a short excerpt from "The Scarlet Ibis", particularly the description of the ibis.
• Model close reading: Highlight how the bird’s color, fragility, and struggle relate to the character of Doodle.
• Pose key questions for discussion:
  • What does the scarlet ibis represent?
  • How does its symbolism connect to the theme of the story?

3. Group Activity (15 Minutes) – Symbolism Exploration

• Divide the class into four small groups (3–4 students each).
• Assign each group a different literary symbol (e.g., storms, mirrors, broken objects, roads).
• Each group will brainstorm how their symbol is used in books or movies and present an explanation to the class.
• Encourage creativity—students may sketch, act out, or verbally explain their ideas.

4. Independent Writing Task (8 Minutes) – Create Your Own Symbol

• Prompt: "Write a short scene or paragraph in which an object symbolizes something deeper.” (Example: A wilting flower representing fading hope).
• Encourage students to think of mood and theme while writing.
• If time allows, invite 2-3 students to share with the class.

5. Wrap-Up (2 Minutes) – Exit Ticket Reflection

• Students answer on a sticky note: “What is one symbol you now notice in movies, books, or life?”
• Collect as they exit.

Assessment

• Formative Assessment: Class discussions, group presentations, and responses during activities.
• Summative Assessment: Independent writing task—evaluated based on creativity, relevance, and connection to symbolism.

Differentiation Strategies

• Support for Struggling Readers: Pair students with stronger readers; provide graphic organizers.
• Extension for Advanced Learners: Have them compare the symbolism in the excerpt with another literary work.

Homework (Optional)

• Find a book, poem, or movie where symbolism is used and write a paragraph analyzing its meaning.

This lesson engages students by making symbolism relevant and interactive. Teachers will be "wowed" not only by the depth of analysis but by how students connect literature with their everyday experiences!