Discovering Story Themes Together
Grade 3 English Language Arts Finding the Big Ideas in Stories
What is a Story Theme?
A theme is the BIG IDEA or lesson in a story It's what the author wants us to learn We find themes by looking at problems, solutions, and how characters change Themes help us understand life better
Success Criteria - I Can Statements
I can identify the problem and solution in a story I can explain the lesson or moral the story teaches I can describe how a character changed and what they learned
Finding Themes: Our Strategy
Step 1: What is the character's PROBLEM? Step 2: How do they try to SOLVE it? Step 3: How does the character CHANGE? Step 4: What LESSON does the story teach?
Let's Practice Together!
{"left":"Lily lost her favorite ball in the park. She looked everywhere but couldn't find it. Then, she met a new friend who helped her search. Together, they found the ball under a bush.","right":"Problem: Lily lost her ball. Solution: A new friend helped her look. Change: Lily learned to ask for help. Theme: Asking for help can solve problems."}
Your Turn to Explore Themes!
Read stories with your family tonight Look for problems, solutions, and character changes Ask yourself: What lesson is this story teaching me? Share your discoveries with the class tomorrow!