ELA6R1d EQ: How do I determine a story’s theme?

THEME The message or lesson about life that the author wants YOU as the reader to walk away with.

Try It Out Once upon a time there was a large mountain called Tai-Ying which sat between Old Man Yu and the nearest village. Every day, Old Man Yu had to walk many extra miles in order to circle around Tai-Ying, and finally he decided to simply move the mountain out of his way. Old Man Yu called together his children and grandchildren. “I am giong to move Tai-Ying.” The family cheered. The youngest stood and asked where the mountain could be moved. Old Man Yu thought for a second. “I will dump it in the sea.” Again the famly cheered and promised to help make his dream a reality. Now, as everyone knows, it is no small matter to move a mountain, and this mountain was no exception. After a year, only a tiny portion of Tai-Ying had been carted to the sea. A shopkeeper in the village laughed at Old Man Yu. “Your dream is foolish. You are old, and Tai-Ying is monstrous.” Old Man Yu shook his head and smiled. “You are right, but your vision is short. I have children who have children who will bear more children. As time goes on, I get stronger and the mountain grows weaker. Tai-Ying will be moved.” And so it was.

Try It Out What is the theme of this story? A. It is best to quit when someone says your dream is foolish. B. Do not make a mountain out of a molehill. C. Persistence can wear down even a large obstacle. D. Old men can do things that young men cannot.

Try It Out What is the theme of this story? A. It is best to quit when someone says your dream is foolish. B. Do not make a mountain out of a molehill. C. Persistence can wear down even a large obstacle. D. Old men can do things that young men cannot.

Try It Out Think about your favorite animated Disney movie. What is its theme?

Try It Out Listen to the song Instead by Stacie Orrico. Identify the theme of the song.