Theme

What is the theme?

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The theme is the
deeper meaning or
message. It is not the
plot or a summary. It is
deeper. Think of it as
the lesson the author
wants you to learn!

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Important things to remember
when we talk about theme:

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The theme is often inferred. The author usually
will not say “the theme is…”

Different readers might identify different
themes in the same book. This is ok!

Books can have more than 1 theme.

There will be different points to support a
theme throughout a book.

If you are stuck, think about what the main character learned.

Think about it:

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What is the
message the
author is trying
to share?

Think about it:

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Is there a lesson
the author was
trying to teach the
reader?

Think about it:

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What did the
character
learn?

Think about it:

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Can you find
the main
idea?

Common Topics:

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•friendship
•teamwork
•family relationships
•loyalty
•compassion
•differences
•courage
•honesty
•accepting yourself
•perseverance
•coping with feelings
•sharing
•working hard
•self-control
•survival

•growing up
•holidays
•dealing with loss or grief
•fairness
•equity
•making a difference
•hope for the future
•racism
•overcoming challenges
•using your voice
•peace
•celebrating differences
•jealousy
•human versus nature
•cooperation
•good vs. evil

Think about it:

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The topic is like a
hashtag. It is
usually one word.

Examples of Themes

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• It’s ok to be different.
• Working together can help you achieve your goals.
• Appearances can be deceiving.
• Sometimes the fast way isn’t the best way.
• Appreciate the things you have.
• Stand up for who and what you believe in.
• Family is important.
• Believe in yourself.
• Excluding others can make them sad.
• Have respect for nature.
• It takes courage to do the right thing.
• Treat others the way you want to be treated.

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​Main Idea: A boy who lies to get away with what he wants

​Theme: The importance of saying the truth and do the right thing

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