1. Theme!
All year, every year.

2. A thing. (Usually an idea.)
Theme topic
A thing. (Usually an idea.)
Home
Technology
Loneliness
Bravery

3. Theme statement Home energizes all people.
Home weakens people and makes them lazy.
Technology will lead humans toward a healthy future.
Technology will cause humans to lose everything.

4. Theme statement rules
Starts with thing (idea, concept) from the text.
Avoids using “I,” “you,” “one,” and any other word that could be omitted.
States a universal, which could apply to anyone. (No references to specific texts.)

5. “Where I’m From” and theme
Think about your poem. What is it really about?
Start the theme statement with a theme topic; finish it with the poem’s message about the topic.

6. Theme as thesis Examine your evidence.
-what are the most powerful pieces?
Choose your idea.
-what is the best balance between creativity and provability?
Write your thesis.
-intro author, book
-theme and its importance (so what?)

7. Draft Themes
Solitude can lead to fake accusations. Strength comes from within. Feeling unworthy of herself. Helping others. Brains lead to success.