harcourt journeys: comprehension skills copyright © 2011 kelly mott

Harcourt Journeys: Comprehension Skills

Copyright © 2011 Kelly Mott

Unit 1: Lesson 4Skill – Theme


Part 1: Introduce Comprehension


The theme is the main idea, moral, or message, of the story.


It’s the idea that the writer is trying to get across.


Part of your job as a reader is to understand what the author is trying to say.


Writers seldom come out and tell you, “Hey reader, this is what I want you to know.”


You have to figure out the theme on your own based on the clues from the story.


Here are some tips to help you identify theme.


TIP


ASK YOURSELF: What is the TOPIC or BIG IDEA?


Themes are usually about BIG IDEAS like…..


freedom


bravery


trust


courage


strength


http://www.clipartof.com/portfolio/ctsankov/illustration/brain-character-wearing-glasses-and-holding-a-thumb-up-1077577.html

friendship


family


teamwork


helping others


man vs. nature


good vs. evil



You can FIND these BIG IDEAS in the….

title


first paragraph


last paragraph


TIP


Pay attention to what the CHARACTERS say and do.


Characters’ actions can help readers determine the author’s message.



THINK:What life lessons are the characters trying to teach me?

TIP


After looking for BIG IDEAS and looking at the CHARACTER’S ACTIONS, DECIDE ON THE THEME.


Remember, the theme is not the topic, but a POINT made about the topic.


The theme is usually an important lesson that the author wants you to learn.


How did you do?


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