Theme Topic Main Idea

Topic, Theme and Main Idea

 I know the difference

between topic, theme and main idea in text. In every given story there is a topic, a theme and a main idea. Each of these are different but can have subtle similarities.

Topic

What is the definition of topic?  The subject of the story What is the topic of Cinderella?  A slave girl/princess

Main Idea What is the definition of main idea:  A few words on what the story is about (not as detailed as paraphrasing) What is the main idea of Cinderella?  Slave girl turns into a princess through magic

Theme What is the definition of theme?  The central meaning or purpose to the story  It is a generalization about life. What is the theme(s) for Cinderella?  Kindness  Perseverance  Never giving up hope

Bears Poo in the Woods. If you read a story about how bears “poo” in the woods, what would be its topic, main idea and theme? Topic: Main Idea: Theme: