Distinguishing Main Idea from Theme

The video tutorial explains the difference between a main idea and a theme. A main idea is a specific, single-sentence summary that includes the character, problem, and solution of a text. In contrast, a theme is a broader concept that hovers above the text and can apply to multiple stories with different characters and problems. While each text has its own main idea, they can share the same theme, such as a life lesson about friendship.

What is required to summarize the main idea of a text?

• A list of all the themes found in the text

• A description of the setting and mood

• A single sentence including character, problem, and solution

• A detailed paragraph about the plot

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CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

What does the main idea of a text specifically include?

• The life lesson or moral of the story

• A broad statement about human nature

• Character names, their problems, and solutions

• A description of the setting and era

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CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

How does theme differ from the main idea in its presentation?

• Theme is a universal message that doesn't specify characters or problems

• Theme is a detailed analysis of the text's characters

• Theme is a summary of the text's plot

• Theme is always presented in the form of a question

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Which of the following best describes how theme is identified in texts?

• By summarizing the plot in detail

• Through the specific actions of the main character

• By identifying a universal message or lesson

• By listing the main events in chronological order

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Can multiple texts share the same theme?

• No, each text has a unique theme

• Yes, but only if they are by the same author

• Yes, different texts can convey the same universal message

• No, themes are always specific to the plot of a single text

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2