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 isnt
  hers, breaks a chair, and sleeps in a bed that
  isnt hers. Shes 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, Whats the Big Idea?

• Under the Same Sky
• Racial Prejudice
• Popularity
• Family
• Money
• Friendship

• Stargirl
• Prejudice
• Popularity
• Service
• Names
• Friendship