The following words and their definitions were copied into notebooks and discussed:
Theme: a unifying idea that is a recurrent element in literary or artistic work
Ex: “Never give up.” “Accept what can’t be avoided.” “The need of the one outweighs the need of the many.”
Tone: a literary technique, that is a part of composition, that encompasses the attitudes toward the subject and toward the audience implied in a literary work. Tone may be formal, informal, intimate, solemn, sad, playful, serious, ironic, condescending, or many other possible attitudes.
Students tend to have a difficult time comprehending theme and tone. We talked about both in relation to music, paintings, TV shows, movies, etc. Also, the idea that human beings organize information in narrative terms: people tell stories, and those stories contain the attitude (tone) the storyteller wishes to communicate, as well as the lesson, or idea (theme).
They were then asked to consider their own lives as stories, and to determine what the theme and tone may be. They wrote in their journals for five to ten minutes. The majority of students were actively engaged in this task, leaving me very encouraged indeed.
I am aware that some, or more, may have had difficulty. They were told that we would return to this task in the next couple days for more work. Essentially, students will be required to expand this assignment into either a four paragraph essay:
*Introduction
*Discuss the "biographical" theme and supporting details. What is the theme of your life right now? Why? Themes may center around a conflict (you against _________.), desire (I want _________, but __________ is in the way.), good fortune, friendship, family, etc. If you have difficulty finding a them, please see me for guidance. One way to think about it is to ask yourself, "If my life is a story, what is the title?" The answer will lead you to the theme.
*Discuss your "biographical" tone. What is the primary feeling in your story? Why? Give examples.
*Conclusions: Did you learn anything from this exercise?
OR
Write an actual narrative... the story of this stage of your life. Use language that will imply the tone. Again, think of a title that will point you in the direction of a theme... but don't state the theme directly. Write this from either the first or third person.
Any question, hit the email link above, or see me. Again, this has not been officially assigned... but will be. Get a jump on it!
