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

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.

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.

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

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!)

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: ___________________

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)

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!

Think – Pair – Share! I LOVE SHARING!!