Unit 4 Test Review

Theme is the meaning behind a story- the story’s message.

Identify Themes FYI The theme of a story is not stated. The subject of a story is not the theme. A theme is a writer’s insight about a subject. A theme statement should not summarize a story’s theme is a single word or phrase. A short story usually has one theme. FYI

Symbol Symbol is a person, place, object, or activity that stands for something beyond itself. 

Symbol 2. The color red symbolizes a character’s anger at the world. FYI Examples of symbols – 1. A fork in the road symbolizes an important decision. 2. The color red symbolizes a character’s anger at the world. 3. A rainstorm symbolizes an emotional upheaval.  

Six clues to a story’s theme title plot and conflict characters setting symbols important statements

Universal Theme Universal themes deal with emotions and experiences that are common across all time periods and cultures.  

Theme FYI Examples of universal themes: a. People can learn from the past. b. Family can be a source of strength. c. There are no winners in war. d. Difficult choices are part of growing up. e. Revenge doesn’t pay. f. Love binds people together.

Sequence of events A story does not have to be written in chronological order – the sequence of events can be altered based on the writer’s preference. 1…2…3…4…5 5…2…1…3…4

Vocabulary imminent – about to occur The Scarlet Ibis imminent – about to occur   doggedness – persistence; stubbornness reiterate – to repeat precariously – insecurely; in a dangerous or unstable way exotic – excitingly strange

Vocabulary analytic – using logical reasoning or analysis Math and After Math dialect – a variety of a standard language unique to a certain region or social group  scenario – a description of a possible course of action or events intuitive – based on what seems to be true without conscious reasoning; instinctive analytic – using logical reasoning or analysis

Vocabulary futile – having no useful result perverse – wrong; harmful Marigolds futile – having no useful result perverse – wrong; harmful bravado – a false show of courage or defiance  exuberance – condition of unrestrained joy  squalor – a filthy, shabby, and wretched condition, as from poverty

Review of Poems Poem on Returning to Dwell in the Country: He was once materialistic and ambitious but has given up these entrapments (“barred cage”/ “dusty net”). He will return to the country and live simply. My Heart Leaps Up: The speaker feels joy when he sees a rainbow (he has since childhood). He would rather die than lose his ability to feel joy in nature. The Sun: She describes the pleasure the sun gives to those who are open to its beauty. She asks the reader if he/she is able to enjoy nature or is consumed by power and material objects.

Themes People can find ways to create beauty in the ugliness of life. Marigolds: Poverty limits people’s lives and deprives them of life’s beauty. People can find ways to create beauty in the ugliness of life. The Future in my Arms: A community has a responsibility to raise its young and prepare them for life. Two Kinds: Unrealistic expectations can create bitterness, stifle talent and freedom, and cause rebellion.

Themes Selfish pride causes more harm than good. Math and After Math: Gender stereotypes lead to poor performance, which in turn contributes to low expectations for success. The Scarlet Ibis: Cruelty mixes with love in each of us. Selfish pride causes more harm than good. Cherish what you have, for you never know when it will be taken from you.

STUDY!