Understanding Theme
Common Themes in Literature
Identifying Theme in Scenarios
Theme vs. Main Idea
Theme Analysis Practice
100

What is theme?

The moral or lesson of the story

100

What theme is often conveyed when characters support each other through challenges?

The value of friendship or loyalty.

100

A character helps others in need without expecting anything in return. What theme might this suggest?

Kindness or generosity.

100

True or False – A theme is the main event of a story.

False – A theme is a message or lesson from the story

100

If a story has a conflict about making ethical choices, what theme might this reflect?

Integrity or moral responsibility.

200

True or False: The theme is the same as the story’s topic.

False – The theme is a message about the topic, not the topic itself.

200

Which theme might be explored in a story where a character faces their fears?

Bravery or overcoming fears.

200

A character makes amends for a past mistake and changes for the better. What theme could this represent?

Redemption or forgiveness.

200

If the main idea is "a boy learning to play guitar," what could be a theme?

The value of practice or dedication to a goal.

200

A character learns the importance of kindness after seeing the impact of their actions. What theme could this reveal?

Compassion or the impact of kindness.

300

Is theme usually directly stated in the story or implied?

Implied – readers interpret it through story elements.

300

If a character makes a big sacrifice for someone else, what theme might this suggest?

Selflessness or the power of love.

300

A character goes on a journey and learns about themselves along the way. What theme might be explored?

Self-discovery or personal growth

300

Is "a friendship between two unlikely people" a main idea or a theme?

Main idea – the theme would be what the story says about friendship.

300

If a story is set in a war-torn country, what themes might this setting help explore?

The horrors of war or the human cost of conflict.

400

In the fable "The Boy Who Cried Wolf," what theme does the story convey?

Honesty or the consequences of lying.

400

What theme is likely to appear in a story where characters confront unfair treatment?

Justice or equality.

400

Despite many obstacles, a family stays close and supports each other. What theme does this reflect?

The strength of family or unity.

400

The main idea is "a family works together to survive a flood." What could a possible theme be?

The importance of family or resilience in tough times.

400

A character refuses to conform to society’s expectations. What theme could this illustrate?

Individuality or courage to be different.

500

How can symbols in a story help reveal the theme?

Symbols represent deeper meanings, which can help readers interpret the theme.

500

If a character continues to push forward despite setbacks, what theme could this suggest?

Perseverance or resilience

500

A group of characters works to protect their environment. What theme might be shown here?

Environmental responsibility or respect for nature.

500

True or False – The plot focuses on what happens in a story, while the theme is the message behind it.

True

500

In "The Great Gatsby," the green light symbolizes Gatsby’s hope and dreams. What theme might this symbol help convey?

The pursuit of the American Dream or the nature of ambition.