Book Report Directions here
Symbols
Symbols are objects that represent a concept or an idea. They are important because they are usually easy to identify, but even when they are not easily identified, they mean something and need to be pointed out to the audience.
Motif
Motifs are elements that repeat and are obvious. Because they are obvious they become important elements in the story. Sometimes they become "background" elements (like wallpaper). Sometimes they become the fabric of a story, a recurring element that ties a story or narrative together. In Phineas and Ferb some motifs move the story along. "Where's Perry" actually is the transition that moves from "What are we doing today" to super spy Perry the Platypus. It's an important "motif" or element that we need to move us from one part of the story to the next. They are "clues" or elements that naturally move us from one place to the next. In the story we read, one motif was "Once upon a time" and "happily ever after." Another was "the big bad wolf" "huffing and puffing" and blowing at the Little Pig's homes. These motifs become expected and important elements to the story.
Motifs can set tone and mood as well (as in Star Wars.)
