Start
Theme
What is Theme?
Think About This
Examples of Thematic Ideas
Identifying Theme Tips
Watch Destiny
Motif
Thematic Showdown
Thematic Statements 101
Welcome to
Let's Meet our Contestant!
Theme
Showdown!
Next
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to today's exciting episode of Thematic Showdown! Get ready to meet our first contestant!
Please put your hands together for the one and only, Patty! Patty is a literature enthusiast with a passion for decoding themes like a master detective! She believes that every story has a hidden message waiting to be uncovered.
Today, Patty is here to demonstrate that understanding themes is not just important—it's a thrilling adventure! So, buckle up, Patty! Are you ready to take on the challenge and prove that even the smallest elements in a story can pack a mighty punch?
Let’s find out if you have what it takes to be our theme champion!"
The theme of a story is the...
A.. Main Character
B. Sequence of Events
C. Brief summary of what the story is about
D. Message about life that the author expresses
Correct! Theme is... A message about life that the author expresses
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
B. A brave young girl pretends to be a man takes her father’s place in the army
A.. Fear is more dangerous than any beast
C. A fear of heights
D. “I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too.”
Correct! A. "Fear is more dangerous than any beast" This is a universal theme about fear as a complex emotion, making it relatable, unlike the other choices that focus on specific events or characters.
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
A. A 35-year-old woman names Essie and her brother
B. A small apartment in Marfa, Texas
C. Telling the truth may cause pain, but in the end, it’s better than lying.
D. Essie lied to her brother about her identity for 2 years, but finally decided to tell him the truth
Correct! C. Telling the truth may cause pain, but in the end, it’s better than lying. This option highlights the moral value of honesty. The others focus on characters or settings without conveying a deeper message.
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
A. Your past does not define you
B. Returining home after a long time
C. A man sees a group of people he used to work with a long time ago
D. An old man who used to be a farmer
Correct! A. Your past does not define you This option conveys a significant message that individuals can overcome their past. The other options focus on settings or events without providing a deeper insight.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. The difficulties of learning a musical instrument.
B. The impact of peer pressure on musical performance.
C. The importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving one's goals.
D. The fleeting nature of childhood friendships.
Correct! C. Hard work can bring great rewards This option highlights the rewards of dedication and effort, making it a strong theme. The other choices either summarize events or focus on specific challenges without conveying a broader lesson.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. The challenges of family communication over long distances.
B. The excitement of reunions and the anticipation of meeting loved ones.
C. The importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.
D. Pets can provide comfort & companionship in difficult times
Correct! D. The love of a pet is unlike any other This theme captures the unique bond between Ajit and his cat, emphasizing emotional support. The other options focus on events or challenges without conveying a deeper message about love and companionship.
Which of the following is NOT a theme?
A. It is better to give than to receive
B. Frog and Toad learn about friendship during their journey
C. You can't pleaseeveryone
D. Family must stick together no matter what
Correct! B. Frog and Toad learn about friendship during their journey This option describes a plot point rather than a thematic insight. The other choices convey broader moral lessons about giving, loyalty, and family unity, making them true themes.
What is the difference between theme and the main idea of a story?
A. The theme is the central topic or subject of the story, while the main idea is the underlying message or moral.
B. The theme is what happens in the story, while the main idea is the author's opinion about the story.
D. The main idea is the emotional response of the characters, while the theme is the overall setting of the story.
C. The main idea refers to the key events in the plot, while the theme represents the deeper meaning or insight about life.
Correct! The difference between theme and main idea is... C. The main idea refers to the key events in the plot, while the theme represents the deeper meaning or insight about life.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. Greed can lead to unfortunate consequences.
B. True friendship means sharing everything.
C. Eating too much can make you weak.
D. Always be cautious of hunters in the mall.
Correct! A. Greed can lead to unfortunate consequences. This theme illustrates the negative impact of greed, providing a moral lesson. The other options either focus on friendship or specific behaviors without conveying a broader message about consequences.
You are one finalquestion away from becoming the next Theme Showdown Champion! Good Luck!
Read the excerpt from the poem, "Little Things" by by Ebeneze Cobham Brewer The poem conveys an important message to its readers. Which of the following choices best captures that message?
A) The minutes tick by slowly.
B) Never underestimate the power of a child.
C) Drops of water and grains of sand are very small.
D) Small things hold equal importance to big things.
Correct! D) Small things hold equal importance to big things. This theme conveys the significance of minor elements in life, highlighting their value. The other options either describe observations or specific ideas without offering a deeper message.
Congrats! You are a Theme Showdown Champion!
Bzzt...Wrong Answer! Try again!
Thematic Showdown
Play
Read the following passage: "Ajit is so excited to see you," he heard his mother shout into the phone. She always spoke louder on long-distance calls, as if raising her voice would help it travel across the Atlantic. "Aren't you, Ajit?" she demanded. Ajit slumped in his chair pushing wrinkled peas around on his plate. His suitcase stood at attention in the hallway, holding eight weeks' worth of shirts, pants, and socks. Suddenly, a loud crash sounded. "Patches!" His mother shrieked. In the hallway, Patches the cat stood next to an overturned suitcase and the remnants of a shattered vase. As Ajit's mother rushed to assess the damage, Patches sidled up to Ajit, rubbing his face against Ajit's leg. Ajit reached down to stroke him, and Patches looked up, blinking his green eyes. He started at Ajit with his knowing look-a look that seemed to offer so much and ask for so little in return.
Read the following passage: Mr. Pig and Mr. Dog were hanging out at the food court of the animal shopping mall. Mr. Pig was eating a huge feast of pizza and drinking a large jug of fruit punch and Mr. Dog was watching him eat. "Hey, Mr. Pig. If you give me a slice of your pizza, I'll let you have the next bone I find." Mr. Pig declined, even though it hurt his stomach to eat the last three slices of pizza. "I'm sorry, Mr. Dog," Mr. Pig said, "but I paid for this pizza and it's all mine." Mr. Dog sighed and waited for Mr. Pig to finish, and then they left the animal mall together. On the way out, a hunter spotted them and gave chase. Mr. Pig normally could have escaped the hunter but since he was weighed down by such a large meal, Mr. Pig collapsed and the hunter killed him. Mr. Dog easily escaped. Later that night while returning to the scene, Mr. Dog caught the scent of something delicious and began digging around a trash can. He found a large ham bone with lots of meat and marrow still stuck to the bone. Mr. Dog happily ate.
Read the following passage: As Tai strummed the guitar, Chelsea looked at her with pride. For so long, Tai's fingers had clumsily tripped over the strings, but now she played the song with ease. Getting to this point hadn't been easy for Chelsea, either. She sighed, trying to bury the memories of all the screaming tantrums Tai had thrown. Once, she nearly threw her guitar against a wall. But now when Tai smiled, and the tune of "Sweet Home Alabama" floated out of the instrument, Chelsea smiled too. It had been worth it
As you watch the Pixar's short film "Destiny," consider what objects, actions, and big ideas work as motifs. Remember to be considered a motif, it has to be repeated!
Excerpt from "Little Things" by Ebeneze Cobham Brewer Little drops of water, Little grains of sand, Make the mighty ocean And the pleasant land. Thus the little minutes, Humble though they be, Make the mighty ages Of eternity.
Determining Theme Activity
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Transcript
Start
Theme
What is Theme?
Think About This
Examples of Thematic Ideas
Identifying Theme Tips
Watch Destiny
Motif
Thematic Showdown
Thematic Statements 101
Welcome to
Let's Meet our Contestant!
Theme
Showdown!
Next
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to today's exciting episode of Thematic Showdown! Get ready to meet our first contestant! Please put your hands together for the one and only, Patty! Patty is a literature enthusiast with a passion for decoding themes like a master detective! She believes that every story has a hidden message waiting to be uncovered. Today, Patty is here to demonstrate that understanding themes is not just important—it's a thrilling adventure! So, buckle up, Patty! Are you ready to take on the challenge and prove that even the smallest elements in a story can pack a mighty punch? Let’s find out if you have what it takes to be our theme champion!"
The theme of a story is the...
A.. Main Character
B. Sequence of Events
C. Brief summary of what the story is about
D. Message about life that the author expresses
Correct! Theme is... A message about life that the author expresses
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
B. A brave young girl pretends to be a man takes her father’s place in the army
A.. Fear is more dangerous than any beast
C. A fear of heights
D. “I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too.”
Correct! A. "Fear is more dangerous than any beast" This is a universal theme about fear as a complex emotion, making it relatable, unlike the other choices that focus on specific events or characters.
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
A. A 35-year-old woman names Essie and her brother
B. A small apartment in Marfa, Texas
C. Telling the truth may cause pain, but in the end, it’s better than lying.
D. Essie lied to her brother about her identity for 2 years, but finally decided to tell him the truth
Correct! C. Telling the truth may cause pain, but in the end, it’s better than lying. This option highlights the moral value of honesty. The others focus on characters or settings without conveying a deeper message.
Which of the following could be the theme of a story?
A. Your past does not define you
B. Returining home after a long time
C. A man sees a group of people he used to work with a long time ago
D. An old man who used to be a farmer
Correct! A. Your past does not define you This option conveys a significant message that individuals can overcome their past. The other options focus on settings or events without providing a deeper insight.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. The difficulties of learning a musical instrument.
B. The impact of peer pressure on musical performance.
C. The importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving one's goals.
D. The fleeting nature of childhood friendships.
Correct! C. Hard work can bring great rewards This option highlights the rewards of dedication and effort, making it a strong theme. The other choices either summarize events or focus on specific challenges without conveying a broader lesson.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. The challenges of family communication over long distances.
B. The excitement of reunions and the anticipation of meeting loved ones.
C. The importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.
D. Pets can provide comfort & companionship in difficult times
Correct! D. The love of a pet is unlike any other This theme captures the unique bond between Ajit and his cat, emphasizing emotional support. The other options focus on events or challenges without conveying a deeper message about love and companionship.
Which of the following is NOT a theme?
A. It is better to give than to receive
B. Frog and Toad learn about friendship during their journey
C. You can't pleaseeveryone
D. Family must stick together no matter what
Correct! B. Frog and Toad learn about friendship during their journey This option describes a plot point rather than a thematic insight. The other choices convey broader moral lessons about giving, loyalty, and family unity, making them true themes.
What is the difference between theme and the main idea of a story?
A. The theme is the central topic or subject of the story, while the main idea is the underlying message or moral.
B. The theme is what happens in the story, while the main idea is the author's opinion about the story.
D. The main idea is the emotional response of the characters, while the theme is the overall setting of the story.
C. The main idea refers to the key events in the plot, while the theme represents the deeper meaning or insight about life.
Correct! The difference between theme and main idea is... C. The main idea refers to the key events in the plot, while the theme represents the deeper meaning or insight about life.
Read this passage Which of the following is most likely the theme of the story?
A. Greed can lead to unfortunate consequences.
B. True friendship means sharing everything.
C. Eating too much can make you weak.
D. Always be cautious of hunters in the mall.
Correct! A. Greed can lead to unfortunate consequences. This theme illustrates the negative impact of greed, providing a moral lesson. The other options either focus on friendship or specific behaviors without conveying a broader message about consequences.
You are one finalquestion away from becoming the next Theme Showdown Champion! Good Luck!
Read the excerpt from the poem, "Little Things" by by Ebeneze Cobham Brewer The poem conveys an important message to its readers. Which of the following choices best captures that message?
A) The minutes tick by slowly.
B) Never underestimate the power of a child.
C) Drops of water and grains of sand are very small.
D) Small things hold equal importance to big things.
Correct! D) Small things hold equal importance to big things. This theme conveys the significance of minor elements in life, highlighting their value. The other options either describe observations or specific ideas without offering a deeper message.
Congrats! You are a Theme Showdown Champion!
Bzzt...Wrong Answer! Try again!
Thematic Showdown
Play
Read the following passage: "Ajit is so excited to see you," he heard his mother shout into the phone. She always spoke louder on long-distance calls, as if raising her voice would help it travel across the Atlantic. "Aren't you, Ajit?" she demanded. Ajit slumped in his chair pushing wrinkled peas around on his plate. His suitcase stood at attention in the hallway, holding eight weeks' worth of shirts, pants, and socks. Suddenly, a loud crash sounded. "Patches!" His mother shrieked. In the hallway, Patches the cat stood next to an overturned suitcase and the remnants of a shattered vase. As Ajit's mother rushed to assess the damage, Patches sidled up to Ajit, rubbing his face against Ajit's leg. Ajit reached down to stroke him, and Patches looked up, blinking his green eyes. He started at Ajit with his knowing look-a look that seemed to offer so much and ask for so little in return.
Read the following passage: Mr. Pig and Mr. Dog were hanging out at the food court of the animal shopping mall. Mr. Pig was eating a huge feast of pizza and drinking a large jug of fruit punch and Mr. Dog was watching him eat. "Hey, Mr. Pig. If you give me a slice of your pizza, I'll let you have the next bone I find." Mr. Pig declined, even though it hurt his stomach to eat the last three slices of pizza. "I'm sorry, Mr. Dog," Mr. Pig said, "but I paid for this pizza and it's all mine." Mr. Dog sighed and waited for Mr. Pig to finish, and then they left the animal mall together. On the way out, a hunter spotted them and gave chase. Mr. Pig normally could have escaped the hunter but since he was weighed down by such a large meal, Mr. Pig collapsed and the hunter killed him. Mr. Dog easily escaped. Later that night while returning to the scene, Mr. Dog caught the scent of something delicious and began digging around a trash can. He found a large ham bone with lots of meat and marrow still stuck to the bone. Mr. Dog happily ate.
Read the following passage: As Tai strummed the guitar, Chelsea looked at her with pride. For so long, Tai's fingers had clumsily tripped over the strings, but now she played the song with ease. Getting to this point hadn't been easy for Chelsea, either. She sighed, trying to bury the memories of all the screaming tantrums Tai had thrown. Once, she nearly threw her guitar against a wall. But now when Tai smiled, and the tune of "Sweet Home Alabama" floated out of the instrument, Chelsea smiled too. It had been worth it
As you watch the Pixar's short film "Destiny," consider what objects, actions, and big ideas work as motifs. Remember to be considered a motif, it has to be repeated!
Excerpt from "Little Things" by Ebeneze Cobham Brewer Little drops of water, Little grains of sand, Make the mighty ocean And the pleasant land. Thus the little minutes, Humble though they be, Make the mighty ages Of eternity.