Unit 4 Test Review Theme is the meaning

Unit 4 Test Review

Theme is the meaning behind a story- the story’s message.

Identify Themes 1. 2. 3. 4. The theme of a story is not stated. The subject of a story is not theme. A theme is a writer’s insight about a subject. A theme statement should not summarize a story’s theme is a single word or phrase. 5. A short story usually has one theme. FYI

Symbol is a person, place, object, or activity that stands for something beyond itself.

Symbol FYI Examples of symbols – 1. A fork in the road symbolizes an important decision. 2. The color red symbolizes a character’s anger at the world. 3. A rainstorm symbolizes an emotional upheaval.

Six clues to a story’s theme • title • plot and conflict • characters • setting • symbols • important statements

Universal Theme Universal themes deal with emotions and experiences that are common across all time periods and cultures.

Theme FYI Examples of universal themes: a. People can learn from the past. b. Family can be a source of strength. c. There are no winners in war. d. Difficult choices are part of growing up. e. Revenge doesn’t pay. f. Love binds people together.

Sequence of events A story does not have to be written in chronological order – the sequence of events can be altered based on the writer’s preference. 1… 2… 3… 4… 5 5… 2… 1… 3… 4

Vocabulary The Scarlet Ibis • imminent – about to occur • doggedness – persistence; stubbornness • reiterate – to repeat • precariously – insecurely; in a dangerous or unstable way • exotic – excitingly strange

Vocabulary Math and After Math • dialect – a variety of a standard language unique to a certain region or social group • scenario – a description of a possible course of action or events • intuitive – based on what seems to be true without conscious reasoning; instinctive • analytic – using logical reasoning or analysis

Vocabulary Marigolds • futile – having no useful result • perverse – wrong; harmful • bravado – a false show of courage or defiance • exuberance – condition of unrestrained joy • squalor – a filthy, shabby, and wretched condition, as from poverty

Review of Poems • Poem on Returning to Dwell in the Country: He was once materialistic and ambitious but has given up these entrapments (“barred cage”/ “dusty net”). He will return to the country and live simply. • My Heart Leaps Up: The speaker feels joy when he sees a rainbow (he has since childhood). He would rather die than lose his ability to feel joy in nature. • The Sun: She describes the pleasure the sun gives to those who are open to its beauty. She asks the reader if he/she is able to enjoy nature or is consumed by power and material objects.

Themes • Marigolds: Poverty limits people’s lives and deprives them of life’s beauty. • People can find ways to create beauty in the ugliness of life. • The Future in my Arms: A community has a responsibility to raise its young and prepare them for life. • Two Kinds: Unrealistic expectations can create bitterness, stifle talent and freedom, and cause rebellion.

Themes • Math and After Math: Gender stereotypes lead to poor performance, which in turn contributes to low expectations for success. • The Scarlet Ibis: Cruelty mixes with love in each of us. • Selfish pride causes more harm than good. • Cherish what you have, for you never know when it will be taken from you.

STUDY!