1. Make sure that you are prepared for class. In your journal, In your journal, Think about The Outsiders as a whole. What are some of the life lessons that you can take away from the book as a reader? Do you have any specific connections to the characters or events in the book? Do you have any new insights on life after reading the book? Explain. When you are finished, take a moment to check your grades and reading progress for Tales of the Trail.

2. What is a topic? What is a theme?

3. Common Theme Topics/Concepts

4. Where can you look to find a theme?  Consider the following literary elements: Plot Setting Characterization Mood Symbolism Conflict

5. Writing a Thematic Statement 1. What is the main topic of the book? 2. What is the author trying to say to the audience about the topic ? Additional things to consider:  What did the character learn?  How did the character change? Theme Statement = Topic + Lesson

6. Things to Remember:  NOT the same as main idea  Should be more than one word  Should be universal

7. Write your theme statement in the box below.

8. Can you match the theme statement to it’s topic/concept?

9. Book Cover/Art Project  You will craft a theme statement for The Outsiders.  You will create an original book cover OR locate a piece of art that represents this theme.  Your book cover/art may be done digitally or on paper.  Possible digital platforms: http://covercreator.net/ http://covercreator.net/ http://covercreator.net/ https://www.canva.com/ https://www.canva.com/ https://www.canva.com/

10. Grading Criteria StandardPoints Theme statement reflects the characters and events in the book. 20 Book cover design/artwork is representative of the theme.10 Reflection Students will reflect on the theme and artwork, providing text evidence to support their explanation. Reflections should address the following questions: How did specific literary elements help you to determine the theme? How does the artwork/book cover design visually represent the theme? What insightful, well-reasoned connections can be made between the theme and the text evidence provided? 70