Students sometimes read a book simply for pleasure. They take in the words and pictures and absorb what happens. Other times, they dive deeper into the book. For example, when teaching a theme, picture books allow students to learn an essential element and Social-Emotional skills simultaneously. Additionally, they explore figurative language, the main idea, and supporting details. This deep dive allows students to grasp what the book is about and how it relates to their lives. Since all of this can seem overwhelming, teachers plan fun lessons, such as activities for finding the theme of a story. Students will love working on a theme with picture books and fun activities!
When students identify the theme of a story, they focus on the meaning behind the words. They see what message the author seeks to convey and then take time to understand it. Many times, this is a broad message about life. It is something students need to keep in mind as respectful classmates and community members. While the theme may be part of a story, students use the message to learn more about life.
When teaching theme, picture books are essential! They allow students to see what is happening as they process the story. Luckily, there are so many incredible options to use.
Author Dan Santat created the perfect book to focus on the theme of friendship.
In this story, an imaginary friend is born. Sadly, child after child passes him by as they select an imaginary friend to bring home. He is overlooked, heartbroken, and depressed. Instead of staying sad, he sets off to the city and finds his perfect match! This is a heartwarming story about celebrating those around you.
Author Trudy Ludwig and illustrator Patrice Barton show the power behind small acts of kindness.
No one ever notices Brian. He is never included in groups or invited to birthday parties. However, everything changes when a new student named Justin joins the class. Since Brian knows what it feels like to be left out, he is the first to welcome Justin. When they team up on a project, the boys show true teamwork, and each one brings their positivity to the team.
Students will love seeing all the themes throughout this book! They will love all the activities for finding a story’s theme with this heartfelt message.
Honestly, this book contains a theme that all students need to know: how to stand up to bullying!
While listening, students will see how helpless and angry classmates feel when they see a classmate being mistreated. Thankfully, they see how one girl does not just stand by and watch it happen. Instead, she shows how a single act of kindness can lead an entire community to join in helping.
When teaching a theme, picture books help bring the story alive. This is absolutely the case in this picture-only story! Students will love learning about strength, kindness, and acceptance!
Every student is so different. While some students prefer hands-on assignments, others prefer paper-and-pencil. Thankfully, there are so many unique activities to help find the theme of a story! The list below helps ensure there are student-preferred assignments for many learning styles.
When students learn new information, reference charts are very helpful. Likewise, when they focus on many literary terms throughout the year, it is beneficial to have posters that provide definitions and examples. Honestly, this allows students to quickly recall what something is instead of getting confused or frustrated. Thankfully, this collection of anchor charts ensures students know what the word “theme” means.
Specifically, some charts define what a theme is. There are also examples that help students understand that the theme can be either a single word or a phrase. Since students often confuse the main idea with the theme, an anchor chart explains the difference. There is even an anchor chart for teaching theme picture books to provide continual reinforcement. It includes well-known stories and examples of the theme. Students will love having so many charts and posters to help them as they work through activities to identify a story’s theme.
Since every classroom has a different amount of space, the resource has multiple sizes and options! There are even digital versions.
When planning activities for finding the theme of a story, it is helpful to have a range of texts to use. Honestly, students need a lot of practice, so it is beneficial to offer different lengths to fit class time. Thankfully, this resource has everything you need!
Students will practice identifying the theme through 24 task cards. Each card contains an entire passage or a story. Then, there are 3 different answer sheet options, ensuring that lessons meet students where they are. This includes identifying the theme as one word, in a complete sentence, or as an open-ended response. Students will love working on the same topic, but at their level!
Additionally, there are even worksheets that are great for any story or passage!
Finding the right activities for a story’s theme can be difficult. Thankfully, these passages and worksheets support students wherever they are in their reading journey!
Specifically, there are 8 full-page sequential narrative passages. Additionally, there are theme questions for each passage. This is the perfect way to help students build their skills in reading passages and identifying key literary devices.
Identifying a theme is such an essential element when reading. Luckily, there are tons of activities for finding the theme of a story to help students with this challenging skill!
If you’re looking for a super easy (and FAST) way to assess your students or review for end-of-year testing, I’ve got you covered with these Teaching Theme Quick Checks. It has both printable and digital options.
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I am Kirsten Tulsian, an elementary educator with 18 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. My passion lies in empowering students to discover their inherent brilliance through the use of engaging, rigorous, and meaningful activities. I look forward to connecting with you!
