Identifying Theme

Where's the Theme??

Name _________________ Date

__________________ The theme of a story is the main message the writer wishes to share with the reader. The message might be a lesson about life or an insight into human nature. The author doesn't just tell you the theme in one sentence – you have to find it. You the reader, must infer the theme from the details, events and characters of the story.

Ways to identify the theme of a story!

1. TITLE of the STORY

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Think about the title of the story. What does the title mean? What does it tell you about the possible theme(s) in the story?

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Skim the story for key phrases and sentences that stand out to you.

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Look for big ideas in the story. Big ideas can be about courage, freedom, love, friendship, relationships – the list is endless.

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How does the main character change by the end of the story? Why does the character change?

2. KEY PHRASES & SENTENCES

3. BIG IDEAS!!!

4. CHARACTER CHANGES…

5. CHARACTER LEARNS…

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What does the character learn about life? What does the character learn about him or herself by the end of the story?