Creating Thematic Statements

1. Creating Thematic Statements It’s as easy as 1 – 2 – 3!

2. Step 1 • Choose a word from the list of thematic ideas – let’s go with courage. • Write it down on your paper as the start of your thematic statement.

3. Step 2 • What can you say about courage? Think in general terms that can apply to everyone. • This is your assertion about the thematic idea. Write it down.

4. Step 3 • Finally, add a qualifying clause to your statement. • when, because, unless, even, so that, whether, if, etc.

5. One Step Further • Now let’s practice making a thesis statement about theme that is specific to a literary work. • Think of a novel, play, or short story you know well. • Think of the thematic ideas that are present (use your brainstorming list!)

6. Fill-in-the-blank • The assertion in this statement will be directly related to the ideas presented in the work of literature. • Copy this down: • Work: __________________________ • Thematic Idea: ___________________

7. Fill-in-the-blank • In ______________, _______________ (name of literary work) (name of author) presents the idea that ________________ (thematic idea) __________________________________ (assertion about what the literature teaches the reader about T.I.) _________________________________. (qualifying clause: when, because, even, so that, whether, if, etc)

8. Think – Pair – Share! • Think about what to write and write it. • Pair up with a person sitting next to you and read what you wrote. • Share what your partner wrote with the class!

9. Think – Pair – Share! I LOVE SHARING!!