Students at MVHS complete Bloom Ball projects in English 2 Honors

Alexandra Sherlock's English 2 Honors students recently finished their Bloom Ball project as one of their assessments. This engaging and multifaceted literary analysis project focused on symbolism and the representation of seasons in literature, specifically through the lens of "The Grace Year" by Kim Liggett. 

Bloom balls are three-dimensional projects that incorporate different elements of literary comprehension and analysis on each side. The projects allowed them to incorporate artwork with their literary analysis and demonstrate their knowledge of the text and their research. The final projects were proudly hung from the ceiling of the classroom!

“I wanted to do it so that they are practicing their research skills but also being creative at the same time and adding in that literary analysis piece,” said Ms. Sherlock. “They had to take the research that they got on their season and apply it to the symbolism used in the book. It was just a fun way to do that because they’re going to now write a paper. I wanted to lead into it with something a little more creative to see how all the different elements of their research can come together.”

The project aligns with the District’s focus for students in grades 9-12 to complete in–depth research papers and projects. It also encourages students to deepen their understanding of literary analysis by exploring the historical and literary significance of seasons and weather, which have been used as powerful symbols throughout literature. Students are assigned a specific season, corresponding to a chapter in the novel, and through meticulous research and discussion, they uncover the symbolic meanings associated with their assigned season. 

“I learned how hope and fear are two different – but effective – methods of motivating people. All in all, hope usually lasts longer and wins in the end,” said Timothy Jenkins, 10th-grade student at MVHS. “With this project, we looked at the symbolism, the themes, and the objects associated with different seasons in the book because those are the chapters. By associating these objects with certain chapters, we can find more symbolism and thematic value in the text.” 

This ongoing assignment, integrated throughout the unit, allows students to practice and refine their analytical writing skills as well as their research skills. The final stages of the project involve a comprehensive analysis, culminating in a colorful Bloom Ball that visually represents their insights and understanding. Through this creative and analytical project, students learn to appreciate the nuanced use of symbolism in literature and develop critical thinking and research skills. Now, students are beginning to work on research papers analyzing another piece of literature.