Theme vs. Central Idea Lesson

Theme vs.

Central Idea

Theme

• The lesson or moral of the text

• Theme is universal (We can all relate to it)

• There can be more than one theme

• We have to infer the theme (make an educated guess) using clues in the text

Central Idea

• The author's main point

• Central idea is specific to the text

• There can be more than one central idea

• We have to infer the central idea (make an educated guess) using clues in the text

What is the BIG difference between theme and central idea?

Theme is universal (we can all relate to it)

It is usually used in fiction.

Central idea is specific to the text (it does not apply to most people)

It is usually used in nonfiction.

Let's Practice!

Answer each question about theme and central idea.

Take your time!

Multiple Choice

There can be more than one theme in a story and there can be more than one central idea idea in a text.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

Theme and central idea are not usually:

• Supported by text evidence

• Directly stated in the text

Multiple Choice

There will be clues in the text that help me infer the theme or central idea.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

Central Idea usually applies to:

• Fiction (stories, plays, poems, etc.)

• Nonfiction (articles, biographies, etc.)

Multiple Choice

Theme is usually for:

• Fiction (stories, plays, poems, etc.)

• Nonfiction (Articles, biographies, etc.)

Multiple Select

Theme is...

(Select all that apply)

• The universal message/lesson

• The author's main point

• The moral of the text

• Specific to the text

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Feeding the animals at dawn is best when you live on a farm.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Always make sure you have the correct order before leaving McDonalds.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Treat others as you wish to be treated.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Scientists do not know what happened to many ancient civilizations.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Curiosity leads to discovery.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Hard work and patience pay off.

• Theme

• Central Idea

Multiple Choice

Is this a theme or central idea?

Treat others with respect and kindness.

• Theme

• Central Idea