Theme and Textual Evidence

Theme is defined as a

• message about a subject

• a specific statement including characters and plot

• big topic that is stated in one or two words

When considering theme, the SUBJECT is defined as

• who or what the sentence is about

• love, life or lesson

• what a story is generally about, big topics in life stated in one or two words

Subject ---> leads to _______________

The following are NOT examples of SUBJECTS:

• love

• loss

• hardship

• Honesty is the best policy.

Application: Which of the following is NOT a theme?

• Love can conquer even the greatest of evils.

• courage

• Looks can be deceiving.

• Both greed and power, if not controlled, can lead to destruction.

Which of the following is a THEME?

• Dogs are a mans best friend.

• Louis learns that telling a lie will earn him an invitation to clean the floors.

• Arrogance is a roadblock on the highway of wisdom.

• Cinderella was thoughtful and kind, thus she prospered.

A theme statement can include characters, plot and specific details.

• FALSE

• TRUE

Chose the example of a THEME statement below:

• Lou knew he would always trust his instincts.

• JJ felt compassion after watching his classmate suffer during a presentation.

• Without empathy, there can be no justice.

• Bravery

Identify ALL the examples of a SUBJECT

• stereotypes

• family

• love

• deception

In theme, the term universal means:

• having to do with space

• it is an opinion

• it can be understood by ALL HUMANS

• it is a a command / direction