1. 7.3 A: Describe multiple themes in a work of fiction
7.3 C Analyze how place and time influence the theme or message of a literary work.

2. Theme
The Central message or lesson from a literary text. There can be more than one if it can be supported with evidence to prove it’s validity.
What it is NOT?
A summary of the story
Specific to the story
More than 2 sentences
One word
What it is?
A life lesson, moral or message about life
Something the reader can connect to
General and universal
1-2 sentences
Associations: morals, lesson, proverb

3. When identifying theme, ask yourself…
What lesson did the character learn?
How did the character change?
How did the setting affect the character’s struggle?
What obstacles did the character overcome?
What message is the author trying to express without directly stating it?
What symbols or ideas repeat throughout the story?

4. Theme Sentence Starters:
Sometimes in life you should…
Sometimes in life you shouldn’t…
In life…
The author’s message to the reader is…

5. Common Themes Honesty is the best policy.
Don’t be afraid to try something new.
If at first you don’t succeed, try , try again.
Don’t out off until tomorrow what you can do today.
Don’t pretend to be something you’re not.
Appearances can be deceiving.
Silence is golden.
All that glitters is not gold.

6. Be kind to people, even if it means going against what others do.
Class Practice
Another new kid. Melissa had seen it before – the new kid sitting awkwardly in the corner while the class began to whisper. She could hear it now, the jeers and jibes rustling around him like autumn leaves stirred by an icy wind. Poor new kid. Melissa thought ahead to lunch. She knew the ritual. Everyone would abandon the new kid, making sure he sat completely isolated at a table by himself. It was just a rite od passage for any kid. The bell rang and Melissa trotted up to the new kid on the way out of class. “Lunch is next,” she said. “You can sit with me, if you want.”
What is the theme of the passage? How can you tell?
Be kind to people, even if it means going against what others do.