Themes
What is a theme in a story?
The message or lesson the story teaches
What is an alliteration?
When words close together start with the same sound (ex: Peter Piper picked...)
Who is the protagonist in a story, and what is their role?
The main character who faces the conflict (example: Simba from The Lion King).
In a story where two characters start off disliking each other but learn to understand each other, what theme might that show?
Do not make assumptions about people / get to know someone before judging them
In a story, when a character remembers something from the past and the story jumps back to that moment, what is that called?
Flashback
What is a flat character?
A simple character with one or two traits who doesn't change (the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella).
In the movie Minions, the idea of family shows up a lot. Is "family" a topic or a theme?
"Family" is a topic, not a theme.
In the sentence "Her shoes were so loud they could wake the dead," what device is being used and why?
Hyperbole since it is an exaggeration
What is the difference between a static character and a dynamic character? Give an example of one character for each.
A static character stays the same (Hyenas in The Lion King)
A dynamic character changes or grows (Neville Longbottom)
A story shows someone standing up for others even when it is risky. What theme could that represent?
Doing the right thing takes courage
What are three examples of symbolism?
heart - love
dove - peace
key - opportunity
In a story, if a character is shown only through their actions, thoughts, or what others say about them, is that direct or indirect characterization? Why?
Indirect characterization
Because you have to infer their traits instead of being told directly
Write a theme statement for the story 'Charles' (in proper format).
In the short story, “Charles” by Shirley Jackson, the theme of neglectful parenting causing children to act out can be seen through the characters of Charles and his parents.
What TWO literary devices are in the quote below?
“The sun broke through the clouds like a hopeful guest, smiling upon the weary earth.”
• Simile: “like a hopeful guest” compares the sun’s break to a welcoming visitor.
• Personification: The sun is described as smiling, a human action.
What does the PAIRS acronym stand for in characterization?
P - Physical Description
A - Actions/Behaviours
I - Inner Thoughts
R - Relationships
S - Speech