The Maze Runner

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“The Maze”

In this activity, students will construct a maze using symbolism to illustrate Thomas’s journey through the course of the novel.

The Maze is central to Thomas’s life and helps shape the text’s themes of Memory and Identity, Order Versus Chaos, Sacrifice, Growing Up, and Hope. Thomas knew early on he needed to be a Maze Runner. He recovered memories of his role in creating the Maze. Finally, he helped many people escape through the Maze. Build a maze using symbolism to represent Thomas’s character and the key moments, lessons, ideas, and events he experiences.

• Start by sketching out your ideas.

o What will the maze be made of?

o How can the shape of the maze reveal large ideas?

o Which colors will you use, and what will each symbolize?

o How can twists in the maze represent shifts in Thomas, the plot, or ideas?

• Create your maze.
• Prepare to present your maze in a gallery walk.

Explain key aspects of your maze, including how it illustrates at least two of the novel’s themes (Memory and Identity, Order Versus Chaos, Sacrifice, Growing Up, and Hope).