Theme
What is the theme of a story?
The main message or lesson the author wants the reader to learn.
What does it mean to compare and contrast?
To explain how two or more things are alike and different.
What should a strong narrative opening include?
The setting, main characters, and situation.
What is dialogue?
The words characters say to each other.
What is a synonym for happy?
Joyful, glad, cheerful.
In a story where a character learns to never give up, what might the theme be?
Perseverance or determination leads to success.
In one story, a character is greedy. In another, a character is generous. How are their actions different?
The greedy one keeps everything, while the generous one shares with others.
Which sentence better orients the reader?
A. “We went to the park.”
B. “The wind rushed past as Maya and I raced through the park gates for the final game.”
B — it introduces the setting, characters, and situation.
How can description help readers visualize a story?
It paints a picture using sensory details (sight, sound, touch, etc.).
What is an antonym for careless?
Careful or cautious.
A story shows a boy helping his sister even when he’s scared. What theme fits best?
True bravery means helping others even when you’re afraid.
Two events happen: (1) A storm destroys the garden; (2) The girl replants it. What does this show about her?
It shows she’s determined and doesn’t give up easily.
What does it mean for a story to be organized naturally?
Events flow logically from beginning, middle, to end.
What is pacing?
How fast or slow the story’s action happens.
What are homographs?
Words spelled the same but with different meanings (e.g., bat – the animal or sports tool).
How does a character’s change from the beginning to the end help you find the theme?
The change shows what lesson the character learned — which reveals the theme.
In one story event, a boy argues with a friend. In another, they work together. What does this show about how the characters have changed?
It shows they’ve learned teamwork and friendship.
Revise this sentence to show a clear beginning: “It was my first day.”
EXAMPLE: “The morning sun peeked through the classroom windows as I took my seat on the first day of fifth grade.”
Ms. Tahod and Mr. Castillo will determine who gets the point.
Why would an author slow down the pacing during an important moment?
To build suspense and show emotions more clearly.
Choose the correct meaning: In “She will lead the class discussion,” what does lead mean?
To guide or be in charge of.
Read this summary: “A young boy learns to care for an injured bird and discovers patience.” What theme does this summary support?
Compassion and patience can lead to personal growth.
Compare and contrast Ms. Tahod and Mr. Castillo.
Ms. Tahod and Mr. Castillo will determine who gets the point.
A story begins with a big problem and then explains what caused it later. Is that organized well? Why or why not?
Yes, if the flashback makes sense and helps the reader understand the problem clearly.
Revise this to include dialogue and emotion: “Ella was nervous before the race.”
EXAMPLE: “Ella’s hands trembled. ‘I can do this,’ she whispered as she stared at the starting line.”
Ms. Tahod and Mr. Castillo will determine who gets the point.
Why is it helpful to know synonyms and antonyms when reading a story?
They help you figure out unfamiliar words by connecting to words you already know.