Theme can be confusing for students. It is often confused with the topic of the story. It’s important to teach students the difference between the topic and theme of a text.

One process that can be used to identify the theme in a story is to recognize the topic of the story’s theme. Once the topic has been identified, students can then determine the author’s message that is being conveyed throughout the story. This process helps students easily identify the theme.

A topic is a broad, general concept that can usually be stated in one word. Sometimes a story’s message may relate to more than one topic. In this case one must determine how the topics are related in the story.

This huge 30 poster set includes common theme topics that are perfect for any classroom! These posters include the most common topics found in children’s literature. It also includes posters that describe the difference between topic & theme and how to identify each one in literature.

Each poster includes a description and mini reference card (perfect for a key ring)!

All posters and reference cards are included in both color and ink-saving black and white versions.

Posters and reference cards included in this download:

1. What Theme Is
2. What Theme Is NOT
3. Theme vs. Topic
4. Theme
5. Topic
6. Friendship
7. Kindness
8. Responsibility
9. Courage
10. Survival
11. Cooperation
12. Overcoming Adversity
13. Perseverance
14. Compassion
15. Honesty
16. Jealousy
17. Acceptance
18. Family
19. Hope
20. Loyalty
21. Growing Up
22. Respect
23. Greed
24. Patience
25. Heroism
26. Love
27. Death
28. Equality
29. Hard Work
30. Taking a Stand