Main Idea vs. Big Idea (Topic) vs. Theme

Maria loved to play football with the guys, but she also loved dressing up in fancy clothes to go to parties.

The central message or moral of a story.

Family

One word or short phrase concepts evident in a story, poem, or novel (i.e. love, war, identity, friendship, etc.)

What the story is mostly about.

Even if someone has something else that you want, you should still be thankful for what you have.

Perseverance

Never give up on something that is important to you.

Even though it had been a terrible day, Terrence came home in a pleasant mood, hoping to have a good night.

Confidence

The boys never expected to get caught stealing the bag of chips, but the security camera caught the theft.

When Julia fell off the monkey bars and broke her arm, she was terrified to go the emergency room.

Power of Words

No matter the circumstances, a true friend will always be there for you.

When you aren't sure of a solution, use creativity and your imagination to solve the problem.

It is always important to put family first.

She knew she would have to work hard, but Jana had always wanted to win the spelling bee.

Facing Reality

It doesn't matter what type of clothes you wear. What matters is who you are on the inside.

Identity

It was a rainy day, and Mom had to get creative to keep the kids from getting too bored.