Curriculum Update: February 8 - 11

Plot vs. Theme 
In every narrative there are various story elements to be considered. Among these elements, two are often regarded as the most important. These are the plot and the theme.

To put it simply, a plot is synonymous to the storyline, whereas the theme is more the moral or central message. The plot is what one would expect to happen in a story, or narrative. For example, the events that occur or what happens to the characters - what they will do, where they will go, and when they will make an appearance - are all part of the plot.

The theme is the life lesson or message that the author wants to impart to his or her audience. However, the theme does not just apply to the characters in the book - it is a universal idea that is bigger than the fictional world. The theme is not the same thing as a subject, such as love or courage. Instead, the theme is the idea that a writer expresses on a given subject, such as "Ordinary people are capable of showing great courage under great pressure." Themes express an opinion. Therefore, love would not truly be a theme - love stinks would be a theme. Furthermore, some authors have different styles in conveying the theme of the story. Many use different figures of speech to express their ideas more effectively, like similes, metaphors and personification, amongst others. Lastly, themes often unify the whole concept of the literary work.

Some students confuse the theme with the plot, and vice versa. The plot, as a whole, starts from the beginning of the story and ends when the story ends. It is the collection of events that justify the theme or subject. That’s why it is designed in several parts, which include: The exposition (beginning), conflict (where the problems are unveiled), rising action (leads to the climax), climax (the highest and often the most exciting part of the story), falling action (shows the outcome of the climax), and resolution (where the conclusion is reached).

Weekly Homefun: 

Monday: 
Typing Club
60 Minutes
DUE FRIDAY
Social Studies - Around the World in 3rd Grade
South America
Tuesday: 
Get a GOOD sleep and eat a HEALTHY breakfast! :)
Wednesday:
Math - Perimeter and Area Review
Thursday:
Have a wonderful 4 day weekend!

Weekly Assessments: 

Wednesday:
TN Ready Social Studies Part 1