Definitions
This is the message or lesson an author wants the reader to learn.
Theme
A character who learns not to judge others based on appearances is connected to this theme.
Don't judge a book by its cover
A passage describes how recycling programs in cities reduce waste, save money, and protect the environment.
Recycling helps communities and the environment
A character who always volunteers to help others, even when it’s inconvenient, is showing this kind of trait.
An author writes a short article explaining how tornadoes form and why they are dangerous.
Inform
This is the big idea or main point the author wants the reader to understand about a story
Main idea
A story about someone who keeps trying even after failing several times shows this theme.
Perseverance/ Never Giving Up
A text explains how bees communicate, gather food, and protect their hive.
How bees work together to survive
A character slams their locker, rolls their eyes, and refuses to talk after losing a game. These actions reveal this trait.
A commercial shows a new sneaker that helps athletes “run faster than ever.”
Persuade
This skill is used when a reader tells what a word means by using the sentences around it
Context Clues
When characters work together to solve a problem, this theme is being shown
Teamwork
An article describes a young athlete’s strict training schedule, the challenges she faces, and how she stays motivated.
Dedication required to succeed in sports
A character keeps a detailed notebook of observations and asks many questions during science class. This reveals this trait.
Curious / Interested
A story follows a clumsy penguin who tries to learn how to dance, making readers laugh along the way.
Entertain
This skill is used when a reader uses text evidence plus their own thinking to understand something the author didn’t say directly.
Making an inference
A story shows a character choosing to help a new student even though their friends make fun of them.
Kindness
A passage describes how a famous inventor failed repeatedly, adjusted his designs, and kept experimenting until he created a successful prototype.
Learning from failure leads to success
A character tells their friend, “I don’t need anyone’s help. I can do everything myself,” even when they’re struggling. This dialogue shows this trait.
A brochure describes the benefits of joining a local community garden and encourages readers to sign up.
Persuade
This skill is used when a reader examines how two things are alike and different in a text.
Compare and Contrast
A story where a character learns the value of honesty most likely has this theme.
Honesty is the best policy.
Explains how different animals use camouflage, mimicry, and other adaptations to avoid predators and survive in their environments.
Animals use adaptations to protect themselves and survive.
A character secretly gives away their lunch every day to someone who has none, but never tells anyone about it. This behavior reveals this deeper trait.
Generous
A passage gives step‑by‑step instructions for how to safely set up a tent while camping.
Inform