THEME & UNIVERSAL MESSAGES
This term describes the message, lesson, or central idea the author wants readers to understand.
What is theme?
Comparing two things using like or as.
What is a simile?
The first paragraph of an argumentative essay.
What is the introduction?
A thesis should include topic + claim + reasoning. True or False?
What is true?
The beginning of a story where characters and setting are introduced.
What is the exposition?
Mr. Maldonado served in this branch of the military.
What is the US NAVY?
True or False: A theme should include specific character names and story events.
What is false? (Theme must be universal.)
Giving human qualities to nonhuman things.
What is personification?
This part of the introduction grabs the reader’s attention.
What is a hook?
Identify the stronger thesis:
A) “Both texts talk about choices.” or
B) “Both texts show that choices shape identity, but each author uses different characters to reveal how difficult decisions shape a person’s future.”
What is B?
The main problem in a story.
What is the conflict?
Favorite Color
What is purple?
Identify the theme: A character learns that hiding their true self only causes more problems.
What is identity OR honesty leads to freedom?
A hint or clue about something that will happen later.
What is foreshadowing?
The specific claim you are trying to prove in your essay.
What is the thesis?
Fix this weak thesis:
“The characters are different.”
“The characters respond to pressure differently, revealing how identity is shaped by personal experiences.”
The turning point or most intense moment.
What is the climax?
Favorite Drink
When analyzing theme, this step requires you to provide evidence and explain how it supports the lesson.
What is analysis?
“The road stretched out like a tired old man.” Identify the literary device.
What is a simile and personification?
These paragraphs give reasons and evidence to support the thesis.
What are body paragraphs?
A thesis for a comparison essay MUST do this.
Connect both texts AND make a clear claim about their similarities/differences.
The step-by-step arrangement of events in a story.
What is plot structure?
Graduated with a Masters Degree from this University?
What is Rutgers University?
Write a thematic statement: “A character makes a difficult choice and realizes they must accept the consequences.”
“People must take responsibility for the choices they make”?
This device involves a deeper meaning beyond the literal—such as a road representing life choices.
What is symbolism?
When comparing two texts, your analysis must show this.
How each author develops a similar or different idea/theme.
Write a thesis analyzing how two authors develop theme.
Answers will vary, but must include: texts, theme, and how authors develop it.
This element shows how the character changes from beginning to end.
What is character development?
Played this sport in high school, college, and had ambitions for the Olympics.
What is Water polo?