Plot Summary vs. Theme Analysis

Front

What is a plot summary?

Back

A plot summary is a brief retelling of the main events in a story, focusing on what happens without including personal opinions or interpretations.

Front

What is theme analysis?

Back

Theme analysis involves examining the underlying messages, ideas, or moral lessons in a story, often exploring what the author is trying to convey.

Front

What does a plot summary NOT include?

Back

A plot summary does not include the writer's original thoughts or ideas; it only recounts the events of the story.

Front

Which sentence starter is best for writing a plot summary?

Back

"What happens next is..." is a good starter for a plot summary.

Front

Which sentence starter is best for writing a theme analysis?

Back

"What is really important about this moment is..." is a good starter for theme analysis.

Front

What is the main focus of a plot summary?

Back

The main focus of a plot summary is to outline the sequence of events in the story.

Front

What is the main focus of theme analysis?

Back

The main focus of theme analysis is to explore the deeper meanings and messages within the story.

Front

How does a summary differ from a detailed analysis?

Back

A summary condenses the main points, while a detailed analysis examines and interprets those points in depth.

Front

What is an important characteristic of a summary?

Back

A summary uses your own words and is shorter than the original text.

Front

What is NOT true about a summary?

Back

A summary does not use only exact words from the text; it paraphrases the main ideas.