Themes in Reading

Success only comes once a person stops pretending to be something they are not.

The above is an example of...

• Theme

• Characterization

• Motif

• Main Idea

Which is an example of theme?

• One person can make a difference.

• Missy knew she would always be grateful.

• The donkey was stubborn and did not change.

• Sir John became famous for slaying the dragon.

What does theme add to a story?

• A sense of location.

• An important message.

• Motivation for the characters.

• Dialogue for the characters.

A story's main theme might be difficult to figure out because:

• Authors rarely want the reader to figure it out

• It has little to do with plot, characters, and other story elements

• Only complicated, adult stories have themes

• It is rarely stated explicitly

What is the theme of this story?

• Don't be lazy.

• Turtles are faster than rabbits.

• Our friends are always there for us.

• It is better to take your time and do it right then to rush and fail.

A story can have more than one theme.

• true

• false

How do you support the validity of a theme?

• text evidence

• summarizing

• you can't

• using the plot

Which of these is not related to theme?

• a life lesson that the character learns

• the moral of the story

• how a character is feeling

• the message of the story

If the topic is kindness, which of the following is a good theme statement?

• Don't cry over spilled milk.

• Treat others the way you want to be treated.

• When fear is present, wisdom cannot be.

• Face your fears.

• Be an alert passenger when others are driving.
• Don't text and drive when traffic is heavy.
• When you make a mistake, admit it.
• Reckless behavior can hurt you and others.