Theme in Aesop's Fables

Determining Theme through Aesop's Fables
Monday, September 9 - Friday, September 13

Today, I can:

define "fable" in my own words.

define "theme" in my own words.

determine a fable's theme.

compare and contrast themes.

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Learning Targets

For today's lesson, take out your copy of Aesop's Fables by Aesop.

*Check the image to your left for a photo of the book.

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​Materials

A fable is a narrative form that usually features animals that behave and talk as human beings, told in order to highlight human follies and weaknesses.

​What is a fable?

Open Ended

In your own words, explain what a fable is.

The Greek scholar, educator, and author Aesop is credited with writing a collection of fables around 470 BC—that we still read and learn from to this day!

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Who wrote fables?

Multiple Choice

Most fables are known for sharing a moral at the end of a story. What is a moral?

• a scene set in a time earlier from the main story.

• an exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.

• the teaching or practical lesson contained in a fable, tale, or experience.

• the author's attitude towards a subject.

A moral is a teaching or lesson taken away from a fable, or any story.

Similarly, a theme is the moral or subject matter shown throughout the text. It is the life lesson or message the author teaches the reader.

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Moral vs. Theme

Open Ended

Below, explain the similarities between a moral and a theme. What do each mean?

Right now, open up your copy of Aesop's Fables to pg. 69 and read the story Slow but Sure.

Team Captains, please read the story out loud with your partner.

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​Reading Time (10 min.)

Poll

What is the theme of Slow but Sure? Select from the choices below.

• True friendship is more rewarding than any money or wealth.

• Slow and steady will win any "race" of life.

• Remain patient, and you will find the strength to persevere.

• If at first you don't succeed, try again.

Open Ended

Think about your answer to the poll question. Respond to the following TDW.

TDW Prompt:

In a paragraph, determine the theme of Slow but Sure, and explain how the author, Aesop, develops the theme throughout the story. What techniques does he use to build the lesson?

Time Limit: 10 minutes