Plot vs Theme

1. Plot vs Theme Purpose: Differentiating between plot and theme, and inferring the big ideas or themes From: Harvey, S., & Goudvis, A. (2000). Strategies that work: Teaching comprehension. York, ME: Stenhouse.

2. Plot Simply what happens in the narrative Example: Goldilocks & the Three Bears Goldilocks wandering through forest and enters and empty house. She tastes porridge that isn�t hers, breaks a chair, and sleeps in a bed that isn�t hers. She�s caught when the bears return and she runs out, scared to death.

3. Theme The underlying ideas, morals, and lessons that give the story its texture, depth, and meaning. Example: Goldilocks� What do you feel? Selfishness, thoughtlessness�

4. Hey, What�s the Big Idea? Under the Same Sky Racial Prejudice Popularity Family Money Friendship Stargirl Prejudice Popularity Service Names Friendship