Symbolism Worksheet | Literary Techniques Activity - Free Printable

Let's solve each of the three symbolism problems on the worksheet, identifying the symbol and explaining what idea it represents.

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1. Sarah was lost. Should she go to college or the army? She cried to her counselor, Mr. Murray. He had long black hair and wore a vest. An owl hooted outside his window. "Fear not. I can show you the way," said Mr. Murray. Sarah felt better. She knew that Mr. Murray would help her.

- What is the symbol?
The owl

- What does the symbol represent?
The owl represents wisdom and guidance. In literature, owls are often symbols of wisdom, insight, and knowledge. Here, the owl hooting just as Mr. Murray reassures Sarah that he can help her shows that the owl symbolizes the wisdom and direction that Mr. Murray provides. It reinforces the idea that Sarah will find clarity and guidance through her counselor.

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2. Dina sat in her apartment and felt stuck. She wanted to go to school, but she had to work to get money. She wanted to see the world, but she had to pay rent. She looked out the window of her tiny room. Her pet bird was singing in its cage. Dina let a handful of seeds fall through the bars of the birdcage. She sang a lullaby. Her voice was sweet.

- What is the symbol?
The bird in the cage

- What does the symbol represent?
The bird in the cage represents Dina’s own trapped dreams and desires. Just like the bird is confined but still sings beautifully, Dina is trapped by her responsibilities (work, rent) but still holds onto hope and dreams of freedom and education. The bird’s song reflects her inner spirit and longing for a better life, even while she is physically and financially restricted.

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3. The judge eyed the lawyer as she argued her case. This judge happened to have a scale on his bench, like the kind that balances. The lawyer closed her case and the judge was silent. His eyes burned into the suspect. He had one hand on his jawline, another on the scales. The court waited for his decision.

- What is the symbol?
The scale

- What does the symbol represent?
The scale represents justice and fairness. Scales are a traditional symbol of justice, representing the idea of weighing evidence and making balanced decisions. In this context, the judge’s hand resting on the scales emphasizes that he is carefully considering both sides of the case before delivering a verdict. The image suggests that justice is being measured and that the outcome depends on balance and objectivity.

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Summary:

| Number | Symbol | Represents |
|--------|----------------|----------|
| 1 | Owl | Wisdom and guidance |
| 2 | Bird in cage | Trapped dreams and desire for freedom |
| 3 | Scale | Justice and fairness |

These symbols enrich the stories by adding deeper meaning beyond the literal events.