Theme
What’s the difference between a topic and a theme?
A topic is one word (like “friendship”); a theme is a complete thought that expresses a message about it.
What Figurative Language is this an example of
She was as busy as a bee.
Simile
When an author repeats the same sound at the beginning of words, like “silver sea,” what’s it called and what's the effect?
Alliteration adds rhythm and draws attention to the phrase.
This appeal uses facts, data, or logic to persuade the audience.
logos
What term does this meaning match
the sequence of interconnected events that drive a narrative forward, including rising action, a climax, and a resolution, often involving a conflict or problem that the main character must overcome
Plot
In a story where a character learns that honesty builds trust, is that theme stated or implied? Why?
Implied, because the author shows it through events rather than directly saying it.
What Figurative Language is this an example of
Time is a thief
Metaphor
What Figurative Language is this an example of
She was an Einstein when it comes to math
Allusion
When an author shares their personal experience or expertise, which appeal is being used?
ethos
What term does this meaning match
the time, place, and circumstances in which something occurs or develops
Setting
How can repeated challenges faced by a character help develop the theme?
They show how the lesson or message is revealed through the character’s experiences.
“The thunder growled angrily across the sky.” What figurative language is this, and how does it affect tone?
Personification; it creates a tense or fearful tone.
What Figurative Language is this an example of
"Break a leg" or "Cross my heart and hope to die" or "I was feeling under the weather today"
Idiom
A commercial shows a sad puppy. Which appeal is this? Why do they do this?
Pathos.; to get people to feel sad and donate money or adopt animals.
When a character’s feelings or choices cause the plot to move forward, what is being shown?
Character motivation
Why might an author use an implied theme instead of directly stating it?
To encourage readers to infer the message through details, dialogue, and actions.
What Figurative Language is this an example of
I'm so tired I could sleep for a year
Hyperbole
“Oh, perfect! I just love waiting in line for an hour.”
What is it and what is the effect?
irony - The speaker doesn’t actually enjoy waiting. The sarcasm adds humor and shows frustration, creating a mocking or irritated tone.
An author lists expert opinions and statistics to convince readers. Which rhetorical appeal is that? Why is it a good way to convince someone?
Logos; if you have concrete evidence they are most likely to believe you and do what you want.
When two characters’ goals oppose each other, how does that conflict affect the plot?
It increases tension and pushes the story toward resolution.
A story’s theme focuses on the struggle for equality across different communities. What kind of theme is this? Why?
A universal theme—it applies to people everywhere, beyond the story’s setting.
What Figurative Language is this an example of
The fly buzzed around her ear.
Onomatopoeia
“I’ve told you a million times to turn in your homework!”
What is it? What is the effect?
Hyperbole, This exaggeration emphasizes frustration. It helps readers feel the speaker’s intensity and adds dramatic tone.
If a speaker says, “As a teacher with 20 years of experience, I believe this method works,” what appeal is used, and why?
Ethos, because it builds credibility and trust with the audience.
What term does this meaning match
the main idea or underlying message that the author explores and conveys through the story, characters, and events
Theme