Understanding Theme
Theme: is a message about life or human nature that a writer wants
readers to understand.
ex: The Ugly Duckling is about a duck who doesn’t fit in. The story
of the ugly duckling is about being different.
 When you sum up the story in one or two words; that is a
topic.
 The THEME is the writer’s central idea or message about the
topic.
o Two possible themes for the ugly duckling would be…
1.
“It is important to accept people for who they are.”
2.
“Differences are what make people special.”
 REMEMBER: a topic is only 1 or 2 words, but a theme is a
complete sentence.
How to write a theme statement:
1.
Come up with a list of topics.
2.
Pick a topic you want to focus on.
Example:
3.
Friendship
Start off the theme statement like this:
“The author believes that...”
The author believes that a true friend remains loyal.
The author believes that a true friend remains loyal.
Theme: A true friend remains loyal.
Themes for
“The School Play”
by Gary Soto
“The School Play” by Gary Soto
Topics
1. Fear
Themes
1. Fears should be overcome.
Fear is a struggle that should
be faced.
2. Trying/Not giving 2. If mistakes are made, it is
up
not the end of the world.
3. Determination
3. Determination is the best
way to face fears.
Determination is the key to
facing fears.