1. English 10 16 October 2018 School Pictures Theme Topics Versus Themes
“Everyday Use” Theme Topics and Themes
Literary Criticism Pre-write

2. Themes and Theme Topics
A theme is an insight about life or human nature which gives a story meaning.
Themes must …
apply to everyone.
be written in complete sentences.
be written in prose (not metaphors).
connect to the details of the stories.

3. Themes and Theme Topics
A theme topic is usually a single word. It does not provide an insight about life or human nature.
What are some theme topics for “Everyday Use”?

4. “Everyday Use”Theme Topics
shyness
mothers
beauty
daughters
education
families
traditions
poverty
heritage
confidence
pride
love
stubbornness
fear

5. “Everyday Use” Themes
Using the theme topics, write at least two themes for “Everyday Use” in addition to the one we determined in class.

6. Short Story Elements Title Dynamic Character Setting Point of View
Resolution
Irony
Ambiguity
Conflict
Diction

7. Literary Criticism Pre-Write
Today, you will choose one of the following stories to analyze in a five paragraph essay:
“The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant” 31
“Harrison Bergeron” 38
“Lamb to the Slaughter” - handout
“Through the Tunnel” - handout
Prompt: Explain how readers can determine themes in a story by examining several elements of that story. For example, you may write about character terms, plot elements, irony, or point of view. Write in a formal voice, and avoid fragments and run-on sentences.

8. Literary Criticism Pre-Write
Complete the following outline:
Paragraph One:
What are some theme topics in the story?
Write the story’s name and author. The story’s title is written in quotes.
Write a sentence to explain how readers can discover themes by examining the three elements you chose. (complete sentences)
Write the themes you will explain in the essay (complete sentence).
Paragraph Two:
How does the first element show a theme? (Use two quotes to support)
State the theme. (complete sentences)
Paragraph Three
How does the second element show a theme? (Use two quotes to support)
Paragraph Four
How does the third element show a theme? (Use two quotes to support)
Paragraph Five
Restate the theme(s) the readers learn from the chosen story. (complete sentences)
How can people benefit from learning the theme(s)? (complete sentences)