Identifying Themes
What is a theme in a story?
A theme is the central message or lesson of a story.
What clues in a story help us determine the theme?
Character actions, dialogue, and story outcomes.
How is the theme of "The Lion and the Mouse" similar to "The Monkey and the Crocodile"?
Both stories teach lessons about intelligence and kindness.
Why do folktales often teach lessons?
To pass down important values and wisdom.
What does "universal theme" mean?
A theme that applies to people everywhere.
Name a theme found in "The Lion and the Mouse."
Kindness and helping others.
Find a sentence from "The Lion and the Mouse" that shows its theme.
"Even the smallest creature can help the strongest."
Name another story with a theme of kindness and compare it to "The Lion and the Mouse."
"Cinderella"—both stories show kindness leading to rewards.
What lesson does "The Monkey and the Crocodile" teach us?
Wit and intelligence can help overcome danger.
Define the word "moral" in a story.
The lesson the story teaches.
Identify the theme in "The Monkey and the Crocodile."
Intelligence and wit can be more powerful than strength.
How do a character’s actions help reveal a story’s theme?
Characters make choices that demonstrate the lesson of the story.
How do the lessons in folktales from different cultures compare?
Many folktales teach similar values like honesty, bravery, and wisdom.
How does "The Lion and the Mouse" show that even small actions matter?
The tiny mouse helps save the powerful lion.
What is the difference between an "implicit" and "explicit" theme?
Daily Double!!
An explicit theme is directly stated; an implicit theme must be inferred.
How is a theme different from the main idea of a story?
The main idea is what the story is about, while the theme is the lesson it teaches.
Explain how setting can help support a theme.
The setting can reflect the struggles or values shown in the story.
Why do some stories have multiple themes?
Because stories can teach more than one lesson through different characters and events.
Why do many folktales have animals as characters?
Animals make the lessons easier to understand and relate to.
How does an author use repetition to highlight a theme?
Repeating ideas or phrases reinforces the message.
Why do different cultures have stories with similar themes?
Because certain lessons, like kindness and honesty, are universal values shared across cultures.
How can dialogue between characters show a story’s theme?
Dialogue can express beliefs, conflicts, or lessons learned.
Compare a theme in one of our stories to a theme in a book or movie you have seen.
Answers will vary (e.g., "The Lion King" and "The Monkey and the Crocodile" both teach intelligence and responsibility).
How do folktales help people understand important values?
They share moral lessons in an engaging and memorable way.
What is the purpose of a story’s theme?
To teach a lesson or convey a message about life.