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Discovering the underlying message or lesson that the author wants the reader to learn.
Have you ever finished a movie or a book and felt like you learned a secret lesson about life, even if the characters were talking animals or space aliens?
1. Plot: A boy repeatedly tricks villagers by shouting that a wolf is attacking his sheep. When a real wolf finally comes, no one believes him. 2. The Lesson: If you tell lies, people won't believe you even when you tell the truth. 3. The Theme: Honesty is the best policy.
Quick Check
Is the theme of a story usually stated directly on the first page?
Answer
No, the theme is usually an underlying message that the reader must discover by thinking about the characters and the plot.
Authors often use the same big ideas because they are important to all humans. Some of the most common themes for graders include Bravery (facing your fears), Friendship (sticking together), and Perseverance (never giving up). When you are looking for a theme, ask yourself: 'What did the main character learn by the end of the story?' If the character started out selfish but ended up sharing their toys, the theme is likely Generosity or Kindness.
1. Beginning: A mighty lion spares a tiny mouse's life. 2. Middle: Later, the lion is caught in a hunter's net. 3. End: The tiny mouse chews through the ropes to set the lion free. 4. Theme: Kindness is never wasted, and even small friends can be great helpers.
Quick Check
If a story is about a girl practicing piano every day until she wins a talent show, what is a likely theme?
Answer
Perseverance or Hard Work.
To find the theme like a pro, you need to summarize the story first. A summary is a short version of the plot. Once you have the summary, look at the conflict (the problem) and the resolution (how it was fixed). If the problem was fixed because the characters worked together, the theme is Cooperation. If the problem was fixed because someone told the truth, the theme is Honesty. You are looking for the 'So What?' of the story. Why did the author spend time writing this? What do they want to remember tomorrow?
1. Summary: Sarah wants to give up during a mountain climb because her legs hurt. Her brother encourages her, and they reach the top together to see a beautiful sunset. 2. Conflict: Sarah's physical pain and desire to quit. 3. Resolution: She keeps going with support and reaches her goal. 4. Theme: Perseverance and the Support of Family lead to great rewards.
Which of these is the best definition of 'Theme'?
If a story is about two enemies who learn to work together to survive a storm, what is the most likely theme?
A story can only have one theme.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to explain the difference between 'plot' and 'theme' to a friend or family member using the 'heart' analogy.
Practice Activity
The next time you watch a cartoon or read a book, ask yourself: 'What did the character learn?' Write down that lesson as a one-word theme.