Finding Theme in Literature

6th GradeELA30 min

aligned to 6.rl.2.2

Learning Objective

I can determine a theme of a literary text.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

Understanding theme | Reading | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Guided Notes

6 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • A theme is an important idea that is woven throughout a story; it is not the plot or the summary, but something a little deeper.

  • Themes are universal, meaning anyone can relate to them, and they can often be discovered by asking big questions about what the characters learned and how they changed.

  • In the story of Anansi, a theme could be that anyone can have a good idea or that wisdom is inside all of us.

Practice

10 min

3 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

What is one possible theme of the Anansi the Spider story described in the video? Explain your answer using evidence from the story.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts