Understanding Theme
What is theme?
The moral or lesson of the story
What theme is often conveyed when friends support each other through challenges no matter what?
The value of friendship or loyalty.
A character helps others in need without expecting anything in return. What theme might this suggest?
Kindness or generosity can show a person's character.
True or False – A theme is the main event of a story.
False – A theme is a message or lesson from the story
If a story has a conflict about making ethical choices, what theme might this reflect?
Its important to do the right thing even if its hard.
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.
Which theme might be explored in a story where a character faces what they are most afraid of?
A character makes amends for a past mistake and changes for the better. What theme could this represent?
People can change, it just takes time.
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.
A character learns the importance of kindness after seeing the impact of their actions. What theme could this reveal?
Is theme usually directly stated in the story or implied?
Implied – readers interpret it through story elements.
If a character makes a big sacrifice for someone else, what theme might this suggest?
Selflessness or the power of love.
A character goes on a journey and learns about themselves along the way. What theme might be explored?
Personal growth can come from self discovery.
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.
If a story is set in a post war-torn community, what themes might this setting help explore?
Together people can overcome hard times.
In the fable "The Boy Who Cried Wolf," what theme does the story convey?
Honesty or the consequences of lying.
What theme is likely to appear in a story where characters confront unfair treatment?
Justice or equality.
Despite many obstacles, a family stays close and supports each other. What theme does this reflect?
The strength of family or unity.
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.
A character refuses to conform to society’s expectations. What theme could this illustrate?
Individuality or courage to be different.
How can symbols in a story help reveal the theme?
Symbols represent deeper meanings, which can help readers interpret the theme.
If a character continues to push forward despite setbacks, what theme could this suggest?
Perseverance or resilience
A group of characters works to achieve a goal. What theme might be shown here?
Teamwork makes the dream work.
True or False – The plot focuses on what happens in a story, while the theme is the message behind it.
True
Many stories contain plots having to do with a person who is different than others. What theme could be represented?