theme statement for education

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Win a $500 Oriental Trading Gift Card ✨

50 of the Best Quotes About Education

Learn as if you were to live forever.

Being an educator is not always the easiest job, but knowing you have made an impact on students’ lives can be so rewarding. Through all of the good times and bad, you continue to persevere and provide education to students of all backgrounds and abilities. We collected 50 of the best quotes about education to celebrate the best parts of teaching, learning, and the impact they have on the world.

Our Favorite Quotes About Education

“education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs only to the people who prepare for it today.” — malcolm x.

“Education is one thing no one can take away from you.” — Elin Nordegren

“Education’s purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one.” — Malcolm Forbes

“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” — Sydney J. Harris

“Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.” — Abigail Adams

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” — Benjamin Franklin

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela

“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. … Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

“A person who won’t read has no advantage over a person who can’t read.” — Mark Twain

“Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire.” — Unknown

“Education is the key to unlock a golden door of freedom.” — George Washington Carver

“The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.” — Herbert Spencer

“The goal of education is the advancement of knowledge and the dissemination of truth.” — John F. Kennedy

“The great difficulty in education is to get experience out of ideas.” — George Santayana

“The roots of education … are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” — Aristotle

“Education must not simply teach work, it must teach Life.” — W.E.B Du Bois

“Education then, beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of men, the balance-wheel of the social machinery.” — Horace Mann

“I believe that education is all about being excited about something. Seeing passion and enthusiasm helps push an educational message.” — Steve Irwin

“Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.” — Sidney Hook

“All real education is the architecture of the soul.” — William Bennett

“Education is the key which will unlock the door of opportunity for you.” — Gordon B. Hinckley

“I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” — Maya Angelou

“Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don’t.” — Bill Nye

“The highest result of education is tolerance.” — Helen Keller

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” — Aristotle

“To teach is to learn twice.” — Joseph Joubert

“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” — Plutarch

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin

“Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.” — Confucius

“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.” — Mark Van Doren

“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.” — Margaret Mead

“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” — Henry Ford

“A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” — Henry Brooks Adams

“They may forget what you said but they will never forget how you made them feel.” — Carl W. Buehner

“A good teacher must be able to put himself in the place of those who find learning hard.” — Eliphas Levi

“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” — Malala Yousafzai

“Teachers are the one and only people who save nations.” — Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

“Self-education is, I firmly believe, the only kind of education there is.” — Isaac Asimov

“Real education must ultimately be limited to one who INSISTS on knowing, the rest is mere sheep-herding.” — Ezra Pound

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.” — Marian Wright Edelman

“It is only the ignorant who despise education.” — Publilius Syrus

“A writer should get as much education as possible, but just going to school is not enough; if it were, all owners of doctorates would be inspired writers.” — Gwendolyn Brooks

“I do not want art for a few, any more than education for a few, or freedom for a few.” — William Morris

“Real education should educate us out of self into something far finer; into a selflessness which links us with all humanity.” — Nancy Astor

“It makes little difference how many university courses or degrees a person may own. If he cannot use words to move an idea from one point to another, his education is incomplete.” — Norman Cousins

“The child who desires education will be bettered by it; the child who dislikes it disgraced.” — John Ruskin

“Education is our only political safety. Outside of this ark all is deluge.” — Horace Mann

“Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know.” — Daniel J. Boorstin

“Instruction ends in the schoolroom, but education ends only with life. A child is given to the universe to be educated.” — Frederick William Robertson

“Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army. If we retrench the wages of the schoolmaster, we must raise those of the recruiting sergeant.” — Edward Everett

Like these quotes about education? Check out these team-building quotes for classrooms and schools .

Come share your favorite motivational quotes about education in the we are teachers helpline group on facebook .

You Might Also Like

64 Inspirational Quotes for Teachers To Brighten Your Day

Because teachers make the world a better place. Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

• Our Mission

A Handy Strategy for Teaching Theme

Analyzing the themes in a literary work can be tricky for students, but a simple formula can scaffold the process.

Theme is slippery. As with irony, we know it when we see it, and though it’s easier to define than irony, it still poses a challenge for students. Discussions of theme, then, can be times when students feel they’re not up to the challenge of literary analysis—and this is true particularly for students who tend to struggle with reading and writing.

This presents ELA educators with a challenge, since students as early as fourth grade are asked to identify and analyze themes in text.

So what is a teacher to do? How can we teach our students about theme in such a way that we’re not skipping over reading comprehension, insisting on a “correct” answer, or unintentionally doing the heavy lifting for our students?

Over the course of more than a decade in the classroom, I developed a methodology for empowering students with a process for not only identifying a text’s thematic components but also constructing original thematic arguments.

Thematic Triads

The first thing students need to know is that, generally, works of literature are about ideas that are larger than the actions or events involving the characters, and very often these ideas pop up over and over again. One place to start with thematic analysis is to create ever-growing lists of these ideas, called thematic components—love, revenge, and so on.

The process I came to call thematic triads boils down to this: Have students identify many thematic components in a text, put them into groups of three, turn one of these triads into a sentence, and voilà, they have an original thematic argument.

This gives students a systematic process for identifying thematic components and thematic statements, a process that enables them to build their skills, and one that shifts analyzing theme away from something intimidating to something that is doable.

But what does this actually look like? The process starts with a definition of a thematic component—a large idea present within a text—and a brainstormed list of some common thematic components: love and revenge, as mentioned above, but also power, greed, freedom, corruption, fate, free will, ambition, lust, violence, youth, family, pain, fear, etc. The list of possibilities is probably endless.

It’s very useful to have anchor charts with lists of these ideas in classrooms so that students can, as they read, refer to the charts and identify thematic components as they arise in texts. As students read, they can transfer these thematic components to the inside back cover of their book, for instance, ensuring that the themes are always at hand and student-generated.

The next step in the process is to turn these thematic component lists into groups of three, or triads. When beginning this process, it’s important to emphasize that there are not correct and incorrect triads, and that the goal is not to find a single correct thematic statement. This can empower students, particularly those who have struggled in ELA classrooms in the past. Let students know that it can be highly instructive to choose a triad at random, see whether it works or not, and then try again.

An Example of a Thematic Triad

For the sake of illustration, let’s imagine that we’re reading Animal Farm with students, and that a classroom discussion surfaces these thematic components: power, greed, freedom, corruption, law, and camaraderie. Students might decide to group together greed, freedom, and corruption.

The final step is to turn the triad into a sentence—the thematic statement. Students often struggle with this, wondering in particular how to start. I would advise them to start each sentence with the word when , and think of the thematic statement as running along the lines of “When this happens, then that happens.” This is a great time to model a think-aloud strategy that gets students to see and hear how a scholar goes about using this process to identify theme.

Let’s take a look at what a thematic statement for Animal Farm might look like, using the triad that students chose. One possibility: “When one’s greed overtakes one’s desire for freedom, it can lead to corruption.”

This may not be the most insightful, original thematic statement in the world, and in all likelihood the first few times students go through this exercise, they will struggle and not be satisfied. That’s good—it means they’re invested in the process and will try again, and improve every time they try.

What all of this requires of teachers is a thorough, insightful, and nuanced understanding of any text they’re teaching. We cannot stay one chapter ahead of our students and expect to guide them to an authentic level of analysis—we need to know what thematic components are located in the text, and which thematic statements are viable and which are not. In short, we must be the literary scholars we are grooming our students to be.

10 Thematic Statement Examples for High School Students

Nov 10, 2022

Think of the last book you read… what was it about? When you go to answer this question, do you focus on a summary of the plot or do you boil it down to a statement that focuses on the overall message of the book? The answer to that question may depend on whether you’re an English teacher or not!  If you’re doing the latter for the many books you read, which most often I think we – English teachers – unconsciously do, then you’re sharing thematic statement examples .

You are providing an overarching idea of what that book is about without providing many details about what happens with the plot and characters. But this is a skill that’s learned and honed; it’s a skill that you, as an English teacher, were taught when you were a student and now likely teach your own students!  

And teaching theme and how to write thematic statement examples is important. Not just because it’s a great way to provide an overview of a book during small talk, but because it provides a clear way to check reading comprehension and understanding, it is a way to work on a different facet of summarizing, and it guides students to more analysis of the overall text.

Need help with Test Prep? Check out this FREE Pack of 3 Test Prep Activities to help students achieve success on standardized tests!

Table of Contents

How To Teach With Thematic Statement Examples

What is theme.

Theme in general is the deeper meaning of a story. It is often a recurring central idea that leads to a take-away message for the reader. Different parts of a story contribute to that message and different texts may share a theme, but how they’re communicated could be very different. 

What is a thematic statement and what are the elements of thematic statement examples? 

A thematic statement is an overall message from the story in the form of a short sentence. Some might boil it down to the big idea of a particular text, whether that’s a poem, short story, or novel. 

What’s noteworthy is that a theme – and thus a thematic statement – is not always singular in a text. There could be multiple themes in a piece of literature. Students could look at characters, setting, and plot, in addition to conflict and resolution in any given story. Through all of these elements, different themes might emerge though they are usually closely related. 

To teach students how to write strong thematic statements, a formula is helpful: Topic + Message = Thematic Statement. With this, students can use textual evidence to ground their thematic statements.

To help your students really ‘get’ the idea of theme check out this fun activity with graphic organizers to create different thematic statements .

Want to teach your students how to write a  LITERARY ANALYSIS essay? Check out >>> Use Literary Analysis Examples in 5 STEPS!

10 Thematic Statement Examples

Whether you’re teaching short stories, poetry, drama, or film, here are 10 thematic statement examples to use with your students:

3 Short Story Examples

• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is the story of a yearly tradition that proves deadly in a small town.  The story also provides several options for thematic statements such as a mother’s love develops over time or people should avoid participating in a harmful tradition, or even parents must encourage their children to listen to the law. This bundle of activities for “The Lottery” ensures students’ clear understanding of the story through Common Core-style questions before they dive into determining the theme of the story.
• “The Masque of the Red Death” by Edgar Allan Poe is about Prince Prospero who attempts to avoid a plague by hiding out from the inhabitants of his town. Like most Poe stories, it’s dark and twisted and absolutely perfect for engaging students!  The exploration of these themes and the textual evidence to support each one would allow you to differentiate for the students in your classroom. You could provide a variety of theme statements such as “Fear is an important part of human relationships” or “Having a positive attitude eliminates panic.” Students can read the story to find textual evidence for support. These examples and more are included in the activity pack for this amazing Poe story .

• “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” by Ambrose Bierce is about a civilian during the Civil War who is facing death as a result of his actions. It also has a twist that will capture students’ attention. Students can brainstorm one or two thematic statement examples and then use highlighters to color-code textual evidence. For example, a blue highlighter for evidence of “fantasies can be deceptive” and a green highlighter that supports “bravery will sometimes lead to success.” Once complete, students can review their color-coded stories to see which statement is best supported.

3 Poetry Examples

• “Annabel Lee” by Poe is about the love the narrator has for a woman in his life, however, it’s Poe so it also focuses on death!  Before diving into thematic statements make sure students have a strong comprehension of the poem using these poetry activities for this Poe poem .  Once they understand the poem, they can shift to writing thematic statement examples about it. What statement is best? What textual evidence would they use?
• Death cannot stop a person’s love.
• Beware the jealousy of the angels in heaven.
• Separation causes the heart to yearn for love.
• Love will ultimately cause gloom and despair.
• “Death, Be Not Proud” by John Donne tries to convince the reader to not fear death. To help with any lesson using this sonnet, check out these activities for visualization, comprehension, and writing . Then students can debate which thematic statement example is best: 
• People should understand that dying is momentary.
• People deserve the consequences of their actions.
• People must consider how to live effectively.
• People eventually must die.

• “A Poison Tree” by William Blake is a short poem about anger and, ultimately, murder. Get students to look closer at the emotional language in this poem with this group of activities to make teaching poetry stress-free . Then, they can shift to writing about any of these thematic statement examples for “A Poison Tree” with confidence! Which would they choose?
• Anger that is not dealt will escalate into harmful actions.
• Beware how you treat your enemies and your friends.
• Growing a tree takes time and careful planning.
• People deserve the consequences of their acts.

Need ideas for short stories for applying thematic statement examples ? Click below!

2 Play Examples

• A scene from Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare that is perfect for analysis of theme is Tybalt’s death and the Prince’s speech in Act 3, Scene 1. These activities are simple yet rigorous to ensure students’ understanding! Through close reading, students can then focus on generating ideas about the theme of this scene. They’ll likely come up with words such as revenge, friendship, and consequences. Use these theme statement development activities with graphic organizers to scaffold the analysis for all students.
• In Act 3, Scene 2 of Julius Caesar , Brutus makes a speech where he attempts to justify his murder of Caesar and Antony responds. Working closely with this scene using these comprehension activities can ensure students’ understanding before they develop a thematic statement for it. In fact, the comprehension activities will help to find textual evidence for any number of thematic statement examples and options.

2 Film Examples

Incorporating film analysis is another option to explore and create thematic statement examples. 

Two favorite films to feature in class are the 1990 fantasy-romance film Edward Scissorhands by Tim Burton and Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 Shakespearean adaptation Romeo + Juliet . Before focusing on thematic statement examples, teach a bit about film techniques and analysis with these activities that can be used with any film !

Students can add another layer of analysis with film-focused vocabulary. In Edward Scissorhands , students might notice that after Edward meets Peg the visuals illustrate that some people may never be accepted for who they are. With Romeo + Juliet , the different camera angles and chosen shots strengthen the message that contention between people will ultimately affect others and lead to their destruction.

Why Teach With Thematic Statement Examples?

No matter the text, students often struggle with theme and creating thematic statement examples. Too often, the theme of a particular story, movie, or song is misunderstood. In order to be successful with thematic statements, students need to focus their analysis and find relevant textual evidence. These are skills that students must learn and practice year after year! With these 10 options, you’ll hopefully have lots to choose from as you teach your students! 

Once students learn to write accurate and specific thematic statements through using thematic statement examples , you can take the next step by exploring several texts linked by theme. Check out this post that examines particular topics for themed units such as taking revenge or death and dying .

Need more fun lessons and activities that incorporate thematic statement examples? Check out my store Kristin Menke-Integrated ELA Test Prep !

Hi, I’m KRISTIN!

I primarily focus on  integrating multiple disciplines and subjects. The goal is to make teaching simplified and effective!

Let's Connect

• Follow Follow

Click below to download “13 Simple Strategies to make test prep a breeze!”

How to Teach Theme to High School Students

Are your students struggling to understand theme no matter how many ways you try to teach it to them?

I must admit, I too struggled with theme in high school, mainly because none of my teachers clearly taught me the difference between a theme topic and a theme statement.

If I really reflect, my struggles with theme started way before I entered high school.

Throughout elementary and middle school, I was taught that theme was a main  idea  repeated throughout a text. So, when I would identify a theme in a text it would usually be one word like adventure or justice.

It wasn’t until I entered high school that theme was introduced to me as a message or lesson that is repeated throughout a text, but I never really learned how to go from a one-word topic to a full statement explaining a message or lesson.

This was a concept that I was expected to already know, when in fact I did not, and it heavily impacted my ability to analyze texts.

It wasn’t until I started my teaching career that I gained a full understanding on theme and how to teach it after seeking help from my colleagues.

I learned that the simplest way to teach theme is to introduce students to the difference between a theme topic and a theme statement.

Theme Topic vs Theme Statement

A theme topic is a broad idea repeated throughout the text that is usually 1-2 words.

Examples: Adventure, Love, Human Nature, Justice, Loyalty, Death etc.

A theme statement is a sentence stating the lesson/message the author tries to teach the reader.

Get your FREE copy and learn the best technique to use when teaching theme to your students!

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy .

Newsletter Permissions

Want more content like this? Keep in touch!

By clicking below to submit this form, you acknowledge that the information you provide will be processed in accordance with our Privacy Policy .

In order to provide you the content requested, we need to store and process your personal data. I consent to allow my personal data to be stored and processed for the purpose of receiving the content.

Your content is on its way to you inbox!

Once I understood this concept, I was able to see how one could go from a theme topic to a theme statement:

When creating a theme statement the reader must ask themselves, what lesson or message is the author trying to teach me through the theme topic __________?

Something else that had not been stressed to me while in school that is very important regarding theme, is that theme statements are meant to be universal truths and thus no characters or events should be included!

Final Thoughts

Once I began teaching theme this way to my students, it was so much easier for them to:

• Understand theme.
• Be able to identify a message/lesson that is presented in the text!

The struggles that I had faced with theme, most of my students weren’t going through. They had a strategy they could use that broke down theme into two parts: the main topic idea and the message/lesson!

This breakdown helped my students identify the broadest ideas they saw repeated in the text and then think critically about the message the author wants the reader to learn from that main idea.

I hope this article was helpful and that you use the theme resource with your students!

You Might Also Like:

Let's Connect!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Top 7 global education themes in 2019

Subscribe to the center for universal education bulletin, emiliana vegas and emiliana vegas former co-director - center for universal education , former senior fellow - global economy and development rebecca winthrop rebecca winthrop director - center for universal education , senior fellow - global economy and development.

December 20, 2019

With protests in places as disparate as Paris, Beirut, and Santiago, 2019 saw civil unrest around the world. The role of education in building more democratic societies and informed citizens capable of reaching their full potential, while always important, has never been more critical in a time rife with inequality and discord.

As yet another year comes to a close, we at the Center for Universal Education (CUE) reflect on seven key education trends and themes that give us hope for a more prosperous future in the next decade. These seven themes and trends, listed in no particular order, draw on research from both inside CUE and external colleagues.

1. The potential of civic education to develop citizens. Startlingly, the OECD found that, on average globally, approximately nine out of 10 15-year-old students can’t tell the difference between fact and opinion. Civic engagement groups are taking note of this worrying trend and have launched coalitions to teach youth digital literacy, civility, and community engagement to foster good around the world; books with lessons on the history of education and democracy ; and campaigns to recommit to democratic, nonpartisan values and institutions .

2. Rethinking the education workforce. Teacher quality is a key determinant of student success, but teachers are undersupported and in short supply, particularly in certain regions such as sub-Saharan Africa. Two marquee reports that published this year—“ Learning to leapfrog: Innovative pedagogies to transform education ” and “ Transforming the education workforce: Learning teams for a learning generation ”—consider how to widen the pool of individuals who are considered educators, with an aim of unburdening teachers from administrative tasks and creating a broader education workforce.

3. Innovative ways to measure student learning. To help students thrive in the 21st century, a broader definition of learning and skills is needed. To this end, the World Bank, in coordination with the UNESCO Institute for statistics, announced the Learning Poverty target , the goal that all children should be able to read by age 10. In addition, with support from CUE, countries in Africa and Asia are developing new ways to learn and assess 21st century skills such as creativity and problem-solving to ensure that all children have the breadth of skills needed to reach their full potential and thrive in our rapidly changing world.

4. Blending urban and child development. Children spend a full 80 percent  of their waking hours outside of school, and cross-disciplinary solutions to better take advantage of this time in urban areas are growing in popularity. Brookings launched the Playful Learning Landscapes initiative and gained new expertise through the appointment of Fellow Helen Shwe Hadani . Large-scale events, such as the Conscious Cities Festival in NYC and the Urban95 festival in Rotterdam, contemplated how to transform public spaces into playful learning opportunities.

5. Scaling quality education to increase impact. Scaling quality education programs doesn’t happen automatically—rather, it requires deliberation and strategy from the start. With the launch of numerous Real-time Scaling Labs (applied research projects to learn from, document, and support education initiatives as they scale) by CUE and partners around the globe, and reports considering how to pay for education outcomes at scale in places like India, expanding and deepening the impact of small-scale initiatives was a priority focus.

6. Preparing for a changing work environment. While robots are unlikely to wholly replace workers, concerns about technological advancements eliminating jobs in some industries while expanding others abound. The “ World Development Report 2019: The Changing Nature of Work ” found these fears to be largely unfounded, but other reports offer guidance on industrial development strategies to grow “good” jobs and to upgrade low-wage workers’ career prospects.

7. Leaving no learners behind. Ambitious Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 has been around for years, but outside-the-box thinking is needed it if we are to achieve it by the target date of 2030. Whether looking at a country’s investment in girls’ education and rights or how a “leapfrog” mindset can help the most marginalized students catch up to the learning levels of today’s highest achievers, ensuring no one is left behind must remain high on the agenda over the next 10 years.

Looking ahead into the new year and next decade, we are hopeful that progress in these seven areas continues. We look forward to collaborating with colleagues across Brookings and around the world to help create a more just, equitable society where everyone can develop the full breadth of skills needed to lead healthy, productive lives.

Related Content

Emily Gustafsson-Wright, Izzy Boggild-Jones

November 6, 2019

David Istance, Alejandro Paniagua, Rebecca Winthrop, Lauren Ziegler

September 19, 2019

Jenny Perlman Robinson

October 24, 2019

Global Education

Global Economy and Development

Center for Universal Education

August 2, 2024

Modupe (Mo) Olateju, Grace Cannon, Kelsey Rappe

July 29, 2024

Sweta Shah, Donald Wertlieb, Charlotte Vuyiswa McClain-Nhlapo, Ruchi Kulbir Singh, Kathy Hirsh-Pasek

July 24, 2024

Bell Ringers

4 tips for teaching theme in middle school.

A few years ago, I had one of those moments in the middle of a reading lesson where you think, “I am really not explaining this right.” My middle school students kept shouting out all the wrong answers, and I was trying to guide them towards the goal – without simply giving the answer away. Have you ever been there?

It was during that lesson that my middle schoolers were learning about theme. For me, as the teacher, theme is a pretty simple concept that my brain can easily wrap around. For my students however, having to dig deep and think beyond the text is a skill they are often still mastering.

So, how can you get your middle school students to grasp theme? How can you teach them to think critically and use those oh-so important inferencing skills?

Tip #1: Get Clear on Theme

Naturally, when introducing theme to students, you want to start by giving them the definition. Theme is the message or moral the author wants to convey through the text. The biggest struggle students have with theme is being able to think beyond the literal meaning of the text and label the hidden message.

Before you dive straight into having students create their own themes, start with giving them examples of themes or having them choose a theme that fits a text. This will provide them with a “template” of how a theme looks and how it relates to the text.

Tip #2: Start with a Topic

To guide students to theme, it is sometimes best to have them start with a topic. Some students may want to jump straight into the theme, but if they are struggling at all with defining the message, encourage them to start with the topic. A  topic  is a main idea, conflict, or characteristic they see in the story. A topic is only one word, and doesn’t yet give us any details on the moral or message of the story.

Students can uncover topics by thinking about a few questions:

• What are the key ideas in the text?
• What is the main conflict or problem in the story?
• What characteristics or qualities does the main character display?

For example, if students were to think of topics for  Cinderella , they may come up with the following: love, acceptance, family, fairness, or bravery. These can all be traced back to the story of  Cinderella  in some way.

Have students make a large list of these topics. They will then use them to create a theme. (P.S. If your students are struggling, give them a list of random topics. Have them choose the ones that relate to the text they are reading.)

Tip #3: Construct a Theme

After students have come up with a list of topics, then they can create a theme. The idea is that by starting with a list of topics, students have a place to begin to critically think. Essentially, we have narrowed down their thought process. 

Instruct students to look at their topics and ask the following questions:

• What message is the author giving me about this topic?
• What did I learn about this topic from the text?
• What moral or message can I take away from this topic?

Encourage students to think beyond the text and use critical thinking. For example, with  Cinderella , students would not want to say a theme is the family treated her badly. This would be an explanation of events that occurred in the story, not a theme. Help students understand that a theme should not  reference  events from the story but make an  inference .

Let’s look at the  Cinderella  example again. Here are a few themes you could gather from the topics we chose.

• Love can help you overcome struggles.
• Being brave can lead to amazing opportunities.
• Life is not always fair.

Tip #4: Dig Deeper with Analysis

Once students have gotten the hang of theme, it is time to move even further into analysis.  Literary analysis  is a great way for students to expand on their critical thinking because they must prove how they came up with the theme using textual evidence and analysis. When you first begin writing literary analysis of theme, have students craft one to two paragraphs.

You want to guide students through the literary analysis by providing some sort of rubric or outline for what they should include. Here are the expectations I give my students for analysis writing:

• State the theme of the story and why you believe it is the theme.
• Provide text evidence and analysis to support the theme you have determined.
• When citing evidence, put the author’s last name and the page number inside parentheses after you quote the text

Before writing, it is also best to give your students an example of what a literary analysis for theme might look like. You can break down this example together using the expectations you have set, so students have an idea of how to write.

Want your students to write a theme literary analysis, but not sure where to start?  I have all of the resources you need to take your students from struggling to critical thinkers.  

In this literary analysis unit, we will explore topics such as theme, author’s craft, symbolism, and more. This unit comes with lessons plans, printables for students, and exemplars to model with students.  Grab the resource here .

• Read more about: Middle School Reading

You might also like...

3 Independent Reading Strategies for Middle School

4 Tips to Keep Student Reading Notebooks Organized

Independent Reading Activities for Middle School ELA

Get your free middle school ela pacing guides with completed scopes and sequences for the school year..

My ELA scope and sequence guides break down every single middle school ELA standard and concept for reading, writing, and language in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Use the guides and resources exactly as is or as inspiration for you own!

Meet Martina

I’m a Middle School ELA teacher committed to helping you improve your teaching & implement systems that help you get everything done during the school day!

Let's Connect

Member login.

PRIVACY POLICY 

 TERMS OF USE

WEBSITE DISCLAIMERS

MEMBERSHIP AGREEEMENT

© The Hungry Teacher • Website by KristenDoyle.co • Contact Martina

How to write a theme statement

When you get done with a reading assignment for school, usually an essay, novel, or short story, you'll sometimes be asked to write a theme statement.

The definition of a theme statement can vary, but essentially it's asking you to state what the piece of writing was about — not the plot, but what sort of insight or perspective does it give on life/the world/human nature?

Theme is also sometimes known as the "main idea" of a story.

But how do you find the theme of a story? And how do you write a theme statement?

To write a theme statement, follow these 3 steps:

• Pick the main topic addressed in the story
• Pinpoint the author's view on the topic
• Format that perspective using a theme statement template

Let's dive a little deeper:

Finding the theme of a story using topics

After you're finished reading the book, story, or essay (you did read it, right?!), think back on the main character or characters.

Did they undergo some kind of change throughout the journey? Did their outlook on life evolve in some way?

That's usually a pretty good place to start looking for the theme.

For example, maybe the story deals with the broad topic of "love." Well "love" by itself isn't a theme, but a specific perspective on love could be.

Try this exercise once you've found your topic. Fill in the blank:

"This author believes _____ about (topic)."

In our example about love, maybe the story's about how love conquers all. Or maybe it's about how love is fleeting and fickle.

Your theme at this point might look something like this:

"The author believes that true love doesn't really exist."

(A little dark, but hey, it's just an example!)

Using a theme statement template

Every teacher or instructor is going to have their own way of wanting you to present your theme statement, so be sure to get clarity on that directly from them.

That said, there are some agreed upon "rules" of writing theme statements.

• Don't include specific characters or plot points. This perspective on life should apply to people and situations outside the story.
• Don't be obvious. "War is bad," is not a theme. Dig a little deeper using details from the story. (What specifically is bad about war? How does it negatively impact the characters or the world of the story?)
• Don't make it advicey. "You should always be there for your family," isn't a theme, it's a suggestion. Keep your theme statement objective and based solely on evidence from the story ("The bond between family can overcome any obstacle.")
• Don't use cliches. "Once a cheater, always a cheater," or "Actions speak louder than words," aren't themes. They're just expressions people use all the time and have very little power or real insight.

Here is a general template you can use based on what we learned above:

"The central theme of (piece of writing) is (author's position on topic) ."

Alternatively, you could try: "In (piece of writing), (author) presents the idea that (position on topic)."

You may also be asked to use supporting details from the story to back up your theme statement. In that case, your full theme statement might look something like this:

"The central theme of (piece of writing) is (author's position on topic). When (event from the story) happens, it results in (blank), which demonstrates (some element of the theme)."

You're going to have to tweak and adjust this based on how much detail the assignment calls for and which examples from the text you choose to use, but it should be a good starting point!

Theme statement examples

OK, so what does it look like in action?

Here are some example theme statements from stories you're probably already familiar with (I'm doing these mostly to demonstrate how to use the template. I hope you'll put a lot of thought into your own theme statements and play around with different ideas before committing to one) :

In 'The Dark Knight Rises', Christopher Nolan presents the idea that true heroism requires complete and utter selflessness.

The central theme of 'Finding Nemo' is that fear is sometimes more dangerous than danger itself.

In 'Romeo and Juliet', Shakespeare presents the idea that love is more powerful than hate.

Hope this helps! And good luck!

Questions? Let me know in the comments.

Now Read This: Every method imaginable for finding and fixing your typos

You might also like..., flex your muscles: 7 creative exercises for copywriters & content marketers, member discussion.

Education Thesis Statement

Ai generator.

Crafting a strong thesis statement is essential for any successful educational essay or research paper. This one or two-sentence assertion forms the backbone of your argument, providing a concise summary of the point you intend to make. Whether you’re exploring the impact of technology in classrooms or analyzing the effectiveness of early childhood education, a well-structured thesis statement serves as a roadmap, guiding both.

What is Education Thesis Statement – Definition

An education thesis statement is a concise, focused, and arguable statement that presents the main idea or argument of an essay, research paper, or academic work related to the field of education. It outlines the scope of the study and provides a roadmap for the reader to understand the purpose and direction of the paper.

What is a Good Thesis Statement about Education

A comprehensive integration of technology in classrooms enhances students’ engagement, knowledge retention, and critical thinking skills, ultimately transforming traditional educational paradigms.”

What is an Example of an Education Topic Thesis Statement

“Implementing inclusive education policies in primary schools leads to improved academic outcomes for students with disabilities, fostering a more diverse and supportive learning environment.”

Remember, a good thesis statement is specific, debatable, and gives a clear indication of the focus of your paper. It should also be supported by evidence and analysis throughout the essay.

100 Education Statement Examples

Size: 220 KB

Crafting effective education thesis statements is pivotal in academic writing. These succinct sentences encapsulate the core concepts of your research, guiding your paper’s trajectory. From dissecting teaching methodologies to examining education’s societal impacts, a well-structured thesis statement is a beacon that illuminates your scholarly journey.

• Technology in Education : Integrating personalized digital tools in classrooms enhances collaborative learning, preparing students for a tech-driven world.
• Early Childhood Education : High-quality preschool programs significantly improve children’s cognitive development, ensuring a strong foundation for future learning.
• Inclusive Education : Adapting curriculum and teaching methods to diverse learning styles fosters equitable and enriching classroom experiences for all students.
• Education Policy : Reforms in standardized testing systems promote a more holistic evaluation of students’ abilities and potential.
• Online Learning : The surge in online education democratizes access to knowledge, revolutionizing traditional notions of learning environments.
• Critical Pedagogy : Empowering students to think critically about societal issues cultivates active citizenship and social change.
• STEM Education : Prioritizing STEM subjects in curricula prepares students for the demands of a technology-driven workforce.
• Arts Integration : Infusing arts into education not only enhances creativity but also nurtures a deeper understanding of core subjects.
• Parental Involvement : Engaged parental participation positively correlates with students’ academic success and overall well-being.
• Higher Education Costs : Exploring alternative funding models is crucial to make higher education accessible and affordable for all.
• Global Education : Fostering cross-cultural awareness in schools cultivates tolerance, empathy, and a broader worldview among students.
• Special Education : Tailoring teaching strategies to the needs of students with disabilities empowers them to achieve their full potential.
• Motivation and Learning : Understanding motivational factors improves teaching methods and student engagement in the classroom.
• Physical Education : Incorporating regular physical activity into the curriculum promotes not only fitness but also cognitive and emotional development.
• Education and Employment : Analyzing the relationship between education levels and job prospects reveals the role of education in economic mobility.
• Bilingual Education : Studying the effects of bilingual instruction on cognitive development highlights the benefits of multilingualism in education.
• Gender Disparities in Education : Addressing gender biases in curricula and teaching practices contributes to more equitable educational experiences.
• Teacher Training : Enhancing teacher preparation programs leads to more effective classroom management and student engagement.
• Education and Social Media : Analyzing the impact of social media on students’ learning habits reveals new avenues for interactive and self-directed learning.
• Education and Mental Health : Integrating mental health education into the curriculum helps reduce stigma and promotes students’ psychological well-being.
• Education and Sustainability : Incorporating environmental education empowers students to become responsible stewards of the planet.
• Literacy Development : Investigating early literacy interventions highlights the importance of foundational reading skills in later academic success.
• Civic Education : Teaching civics fosters active participation in democratic processes and shapes informed and responsible citizens.
• Education for Special Needs Students : Creating individualized education plans (IEPs) enhances the learning experience for students with diverse abilities.
• Globalization and Education : Exploring how globalization affects educational policies and practices prepares students for a globalized world.
• Education and Poverty : Investigating the link between education and poverty reduction underscores the role of education in breaking the cycle of disadvantage.
• Character Education : Nurturing qualities like empathy, integrity, and resilience in students contributes to holistic personal and ethical development.
• Standardized Curriculum vs. Personalized Learning : Evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of standardized versus personalized learning approaches in classrooms.
• Education Technology Ethics : Examining the ethical implications of using student data in educational technology applications.
• Education and Immigration : Studying the educational challenges and opportunities faced by immigrant students in host countries.
• Critical Thinking Education : Integrating critical thinking skills into curricula prepares students to analyze and evaluate information independently.
• Education and Cultural Heritage : Incorporating cultural heritage education preserves traditions and fosters cultural pride among students.
• Education Funding Allocation : Investigating the impact of equitable distribution of funding on educational outcomes in different communities.
• Education and Neurodiversity : Creating inclusive classrooms that accommodate neurodiverse students promotes a more accepting society.
• Sexual Education : Implementing comprehensive sexual education equips students with vital knowledge for making informed decisions.
• Education and Democracy : Understanding the role of education in nurturing informed citizenship and active participation in democratic processes.
• Education and Indigenous Knowledge : Integrating indigenous knowledge systems into curricula honors diverse worldviews and promotes cultural understanding.
• Home Schooling vs. Public Schooling : Comparing the academic and social outcomes of students educated at home versus traditional schools.
• Peer-to-Peer Learning : Exploring the effectiveness of peer mentoring programs in enhancing students’ academic performance and social skills.
• Education and Artificial Intelligence : Analyzing the potential of AI to personalize learning experiences and address individual student needs.
• Vocational Education : Promoting vocational education as a viable pathway to skill development and successful career opportunities.
• Education and Ethical Dilemmas : Investigating ethical challenges faced by educators and students in modern educational settings.
• Education and LGBTQ+ Inclusivity : Creating safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students through policy changes and awareness programs.
• Education and Aging Population : Adapting educational strategies to meet the learning needs of an aging workforce.
• Assessment Methods : Exploring innovative assessment techniques that provide a more comprehensive understanding of student learning.
• Outdoor Education : Utilizing outdoor and experiential learning to enhance students’ practical skills and environmental awareness.
• Education and Artificial Reality : Harnessing the potential of virtual and augmented reality in creating immersive educational experiences.
• Emotional Intelligence in Education : Integrating emotional intelligence training in schools contributes to students’ interpersonal skills and emotional well-being.
• Education and Gifted Students : Tailoring instruction to meet the unique learning needs of gifted students supports their intellectual growth.
• Education and Nutrition : Recognizing the link between proper nutrition and cognitive development for optimal student learning.
• Education and Language Acquisition : Examining strategies for effective language acquisition among non-native speakers in educational settings.
• Education and Political Socialization : Investigating how education shapes students’ political beliefs and participation in civic activities.
• Education and Political Socialization : Investigating how education shapes students’ political beliefs and participation in civic activities
• Education and Digital Literacy : Evaluating the importance of teaching digital literacy skills to navigate the information-rich online world.
• Teacher-Student Relationships : Investigating the impact of positive teacher-student relationships on academic motivation and achievement.
• Education and Social Justice : Analyzing the role of education in addressing societal inequalities and promoting social justice.
• Education and Multilingualism : Exploring the benefits of a multilingual approach in education for cognitive development and cultural awareness.
• Education and Learning Disabilities : Implementing tailored strategies to support students with learning disabilities enhances their academic success.
• Education and Environmental Awareness : Integrating environmental education fosters a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
• Education and Entrepreneurship : Promoting entrepreneurial education equips students with skills for innovation and economic contribution.
• Student Engagement Strategies : Investigating effective methods to enhance student engagement and participation in the learning process.
• Education and Artificial Intelligence Ethics : Examining ethical considerations when using AI in educational settings to ensure data privacy and equity.
• Education and Emotional Well-being : Creating emotionally supportive environments positively impacts students’ mental health and academic performance.
• Education and Cultural Assimilation : Analyzing how education can either preserve or dilute cultural heritage among immigrant communities.
• Distance Learning Challenges : Exploring the challenges and benefits of distance learning, especially in the context of global events.
• Education and Creativity : Fostering creative thinking skills in students through innovative teaching approaches and curricular design.
• Education and Student Autonomy : Investigating the benefits of allowing students more autonomy in their learning processes.
• Education and Gaming : Exploring the potential of educational games in enhancing learning outcomes and student engagement.
• Teacher Burnout : Examining the factors contributing to teacher burnout and strategies to promote educator well-being.
• Global Education Disparities : Analyzing the disparities in access to quality education across different regions of the world.
• Education and Learning Styles : Tailoring instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles enhances students’ comprehension and retention.
• Education and Brain Development : Studying the correlation between educational experiences and brain development in children and adolescents.
• Education and Ethics Education : Integrating ethics education cultivates morally responsible decision-making among students.
• Education and Socioeconomic Mobility : Examining how education can be a catalyst for upward social mobility in disadvantaged communities.
• Education and Peer Influence : Investigating how peer interactions shape students’ attitudes, behaviors, and academic choices.
• Education and Indigenous Language Revival : Promoting the revitalization of indigenous languages through education preserves cultural heritage.
• Teacher Evaluation Methods : Exploring effective methods for evaluating teacher performance and their impact on educational quality.
• Education and Critical Media Literacy : Developing media literacy skills equips students to critically analyze and navigate the digital information landscape.
• Education and Online Privacy : Raising awareness about online privacy and digital citizenship in educational settings.
• Education and Parental Expectations : Analyzing the effects of parental expectations on students’ academic motivation and achievements.
• Education and Gender Stereotypes : Exploring how education can challenge or reinforce traditional gender stereotypes and roles.
• Education and Mindfulness : Incorporating mindfulness practices in schools enhances students’ focus, emotional regulation, and well-being.
• Education and Aging Workforce : Adapting teaching methods to address the unique learning needs of mature students in continuing education.
• Education and Postcolonialism : Analyzing the influence of colonial history on education systems and curriculum development.
• Education and Lifelong Learning : Promoting the idea of education as a continuous process that extends beyond formal schooling.

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

Education is the cornerstone of societal progress, and an argumentative essay thesis statement can explore its multifaceted impact. A thesis statement could be: “Mandatory financial literacy education in schools should be implemented to empower students with essential life skills, promoting responsible financial decision-making.

• Mandatory Financial Literacy Education : “Mandatory financial literacy education in schools should be implemented to empower students with essential life skills, promoting responsible financial decision-making.”
• Comprehensive Sex Education : “The integration of comprehensive sex education into curricula is imperative to address the rising rates of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.”
• Bilingual Education : “Bilingual education programs positively contribute to cognitive development, cross-cultural understanding, and global communication skills among students.”
• Diverse Perspectives in History Education : “The inclusion of diverse perspectives in history education fosters critical thinking and promotes a more accurate understanding of past events.”
• Importance of Arts Education : “Arts education should remain a fundamental component of the curriculum, as it enhances creativity, cognitive abilities, and emotional intelligence.”
• Media Literacy Education : “Promoting media literacy education equips students to navigate the complexities of the digital age, fostering critical analysis of information sources.”
• Restorative Justice in Education : “Implementing restorative justice practices in schools nurtures conflict resolution skills, reduces disciplinary disparities, and creates a more inclusive learning environment.”
• Environmental Education : “Environmental education cultivates a sense of responsibility for ecological sustainability, preparing students to address pressing global environmental challenges.”
• Mental Health Education : “Education about mental health and emotional well-being should be integrated into curricula to reduce stigma, enhance self-awareness, and support student mental health.”
• Coding and Computer Science Education : “Teaching coding and computer science in primary education enhances problem-solving abilities, technological literacy, and prepares students for a technology-driven future.”

Importance of Education Thesis Statement Examples

Highlighting the significance of education, a thesis statement like, “Access to quality education equips individuals with the tools to break the cycle of poverty, fosters critical thinking, and cultivates informed citizens essential for a thriving democracy.”

• Access to Quality Education : “Access to quality education equips individuals with the tools to break the cycle of poverty, fosters critical thinking, and cultivates informed citizens essential for a thriving democracy.”
• Education and Innovation : “Education empowers individuals to challenge societal norms, fostering innovation and progress through the exploration of new ideas and perspectives.”
• Early Childhood Education : “Investing in early childhood education yields lifelong benefits, promoting cognitive development, emotional intelligence, and academic success.”
• Education for Social Cohesion : “Education plays a pivotal role in promoting social cohesion, bridging cultural divides, and fostering mutual respect and understanding among diverse communities.”
• Education and Economic Growth : “An educated workforce drives economic growth by fostering innovation, increasing productivity, and attracting investment in a knowledge-based economy.”
• Empowerment through Education : “Education is the foundation of personal empowerment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health, finances, and overall well-being.”
• Education in a Technological Era : “Quality education equips individuals with the skills to adapt to rapid technological changes, ensuring they remain competitive in a dynamic job market.”
• Education and Social Mobility : “Education serves as a catalyst for social mobility, enabling individuals to transcend their socioeconomic backgrounds and achieve upward mobility.”
• Education and Public Health : “In societies with higher levels of education, there is a positive correlation with improved public health outcomes, lower crime rates, and overall well-being.”
• Right to Education : “Education is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or geographical location.”

Lack of Education Thesis Statement Examples

Examining the consequences of inadequate education, a concise thesis statement might state: “The lack of accessible education perpetuates social inequality, limits economic mobility, and hinders personal and societal development, underscoring the urgent need for educational reforms.”

• Impact of Inaccessible Education : “The lack of accessible education perpetuates social inequality, limits economic mobility, and hinders personal and societal development, underscoring the urgent need for educational reforms.”
• Cycle of Poverty : “In regions with limited educational opportunities, there is a heightened risk of perpetuating cycles of poverty, resulting in diminished life prospects for generations.”
• Lack of Comprehensive Sex Education : “The absence of comprehensive sex education contributes to uninformed decisions, leading to higher rates of unintended pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted infections.”
• Educational Inequality and Civic Engagement : “Communities with inadequate educational infrastructure experience reduced civic engagement, hampering their ability to advocate for their rights and interests.”
• Challenges in Special Needs Education : “Without inclusive education practices, students with disabilities are often marginalized, denying them opportunities for holistic development and societal contribution.”
• Environmental Ignorance : “The lack of emphasis on environmental education results in a lack of awareness about sustainable practices, exacerbating environmental degradation and climate change.”
• Mental Health Education Gap : “A dearth of education around mental health perpetuates stigma, preventing individuals from seeking help and contributing to a global mental health crisis.”
• Gender Disparities in Education : “In societies where gender equity in education is not prioritized, women and girls face limited opportunities, reinforcing gender disparities in various sectors.”
• Education and Ignorance : “Communities without access to quality education struggle to break free from cycles of ignorance and misinformation, hindering progress and social cohesion.”
• Digital Literacy Divide : “The absence of education tailored to the digital age leaves individuals vulnerable to misinformation, cyber threats, and challenges presented by rapid technological advancements.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for College

For a college-focused context, a thesis could be: “Integrating practical skills training into higher education curricula prepares students for real-world challenges, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and employability.”

• Practical Skills in Higher Education : “Integrating practical skills training into higher education curricula prepares students for real-world challenges, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and employability.”
• Interdisciplinary Learning in College : “College education should prioritize interdisciplinary learning, fostering a holistic understanding of complex global issues and encouraging innovative solutions.”
• Experiential Learning in College : “Promoting student engagement through experiential learning opportunities in college enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and prepares students for lifelong learning.”
• Soft Skills Development in College : “Colleges should emphasize the development of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, essential for success in diverse professional environments.”
• Entrepreneurship Education in College : “Incorporating entrepreneurship education in college equips students with the mindset and skills needed to create and navigate their own career paths.”
• Cultural Competence in College : “College education should encourage cultural competence, promoting empathy and understanding in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.”
• Technology-Enhanced Learning in College : “Embracing technology-enhanced learning methods in college empowers students to become digitally literate, adaptable, and well-prepared for the modern workforce.”
• Research-Oriented College Education : “Fostering a research-oriented approach in college education cultivates critical inquiry, creativity, and advances our understanding of various academic disciplines.”
• Mental Health Support in College : “Colleges should prioritize mental health and well-being services to support students during a transformative period, ensuring their holistic success.”
• Flexible Learning in College : “Offering flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses, accommodates diverse student needs and promotes lifelong learning beyond traditional campus settings.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Students

Directing attention to students, a thesis might read: “Implementing personalized learning approaches in schools caters to diverse learning styles, enhances student engagement, and fosters a lifelong love for learning.”

• Personalized Learning for Students : “Implementing personalized learning approaches in schools caters to diverse learning styles, enhances student engagement, and fosters a lifelong love for learning.”
• Student-Centered Education : “Student-centered education that encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking nurtures independent thought and prepares students for active citizenship.”
• Project-Based Learning for Students : “Incorporating project-based learning in schools develops problem-solving skills and empowers students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.”
• Student Agency in Education : “Encouraging student agency in educational decisions fosters a sense of ownership, boosting motivation, and promoting self-directed learning.”
• Learning from Failure for Students : “Education that emphasizes the value of failure as a stepping stone to success helps students develop resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset.”
• Collaborative Learning for Students : “Promoting collaborative learning experiences in classrooms cultivates teamwork skills, enhances communication, and exposes students to diverse perspectives.”
• Extracurricular Involvement for Students : “Student involvement in extracurricular activities and community service fosters character development, empathy, and a sense of responsibility to society.”
• Arts and Creative Expression for Students : “Integrating arts and creative expression into education sparks imagination, enhances emotional intelligence, and encourages students to think outside the box.”
• Digital Literacy for Students : “Cultivating digital literacy skills equips students to navigate the digital landscape responsibly, critically evaluate information, and contribute positively online.”
• Mindfulness in Education for Students : “Education that incorporates mindfulness and well-being practices helps students manage stress, build emotional resilience, and maintain overall mental wellness.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Essay

In the context of an essay, a case study thesis statement could be: “Exploring the evolution of educational technology reveals its role as a transformative force in modern classrooms, reshaping traditional teaching methods and enhancing student outcomes.”

• Effective Study Habits : “Exploring effective study habits and time management strategies equips students with the tools to optimize their learning experience and achieve academic success.”
• Role of Teachers in Student Motivation : “Analyzing the pivotal role of teachers in motivating students through innovative teaching methods and supportive mentorship enhances the learning journey.”
• Educational Technology Integration : “Examining the integration of educational technology in classrooms highlights its potential to enhance engagement, collaboration, and personalized learning.”
• Impact of Standardized Testing : “Investigating the impact of standardized testing on curriculum, instruction, and student stress provides insights into the complexities of assessment-driven education systems.”
• Importance of Early Literacy : “Highlighting the significance of early literacy development in shaping future academic achievements emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and support.”
• Holistic Assessment Approaches : “Exploring alternative assessment methods beyond exams, such as project-based assessments and portfolios, offers a comprehensive view of student learning.”
• Cultural Competence in Education : “Analyzing the importance of cultural competence in educators for creating inclusive classrooms and fostering diverse student perspectives.”
• Critical Thinking in Education : “Investigating the cultivation of critical thinking skills through interdisciplinary learning encourages students to question, analyze, and form independent viewpoints.”
• Ethics Education : “Examining the integration of ethics education across disciplines prepares students to navigate ethical dilemmas and make informed moral decisions.”
• Education and Sustainable Development : “Exploring the role of education in promoting sustainable development addresses its contribution to environmental awareness, social responsibility, and global citizenship.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples about Online Learning

Regarding online learning, a thesis might state: “The rapid expansion of online education presents opportunities for global access to quality learning, yet challenges persist in ensuring equitable access and maintaining educational rigor.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples about Online Learning:

• Rise of Online Education : “The rapid expansion of online education presents opportunities for global access to quality learning, yet challenges persist in ensuring equitable access and maintaining educational rigor.”
• Hybrid Learning Models : “Examining the effectiveness of hybrid learning models highlights the potential of combining online and in-person elements to enhance engagement and flexibility in education.”
• Synchronous and Asynchronous Online Interactions : “Investigating the role of synchronous and asynchronous online interactions in virtual classrooms reveals their impact on student engagement, peer collaboration, and instructor feedback.”
• Online Assessment Methods : “Analyzing the role of online assessments in measuring student performance raises questions about the fairness, security, and authenticity of remote evaluation methods.”
• Digital Divide in Online Learning : “Exploring the digital divide’s impact on online learning access emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to bridge technological disparities among students.”
• Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) : “The rise of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) challenges traditional education paradigms by offering large-scale, accessible learning experiences to diverse global audiences.”
• Artificial Intelligence in Online Education : “Examining the role of artificial intelligence in personalized online education sheds light on its potential to adapt content, pacing, and assessment to individual student needs.”
• Virtual Communities and Online Learning : “Investigating the social aspects of online learning environments explores the ways virtual communities, discussions, and collaborations contribute to a sense of belonging.”
• Online Simulations and Virtual Labs : “Analyzing the benefits of online simulations and virtual labs in science education showcases their role in providing experiential learning opportunities outside traditional labs.”
• Long-Term Effects of Online Learning : “The exploration of online learning’s long-term effects on students’ social skills, time management, and self-regulation offers insights into the broader impacts of digital education.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Parental Involvement

Focusing on parental involvement, a thesis could be: “Active parental engagement in a child’s education significantly impacts academic performance, creating a collaborative learning environment and fostering holistic development.”

• Active Parental Engagement : “Active parental engagement in a child’s education significantly impacts academic performance, creating a collaborative learning environment and fostering holistic development.”
• Early Childhood Parental Involvement : “Investigating the influence of parental involvement in early childhood education emphasizes its role in shaping cognitive, emotional, and social foundations for lifelong learning.”
• Parent-Teacher Partnerships : “Analyzing the impact of parent-teacher partnerships on student motivation and behavior management highlights the importance of consistent communication and shared goals.”
• Parental Involvement in Remote Learning : “Exploring strategies to involve parents in remote and online learning environments addresses the need for adaptable approaches to maintain strong home-school connections.”
• Parent-Led Initiatives in Schools : “Examining the impact of parent-led initiatives in schools reveals their potential to enhance school facilities, resources, and extracurricular opportunities for all students.”
• Challenges of Parental Involvement : “Investigating the challenges faced by parents from diverse backgrounds in engaging with school activities emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive communication and support.”
• Parent Education Workshops : “Analyzing the role of parent education workshops in enhancing parenting skills, communication, and support systems contributes to positive student outcomes.”
• Parental Involvement and Absenteeism : “Exploring the impact of parental involvement on reducing absenteeism, dropout rates, and disciplinary issues underscores its potential as a preventive measure.”
• Parental Involvement in Curriculum Decisions : “Investigating the effects of parent participation in curriculum decisions and policy-making highlights their valuable insights and contributions to shaping educational priorities.”
• Technology and Parental Involvement : “Exploring the intersection of technology and parental involvement unveils the potential of digital platforms to facilitate communication, updates, and collaboration between parents and educators.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Special Needs

Addressing special needs education, a thesis might read: “Inclusive education practices empower students with diverse abilities by providing tailored support, promoting social integration, and challenging stigmas surrounding disabilities.”

• Inclusive Education Practices : “Inclusive education practices empower students with diverse abilities by providing tailored support, promoting social integration, and challenging stigmas surrounding disabilities.”
• Assistive Technology in Special Education : “Examining the impact of assistive technology in special education classrooms showcases its role in enhancing communication, learning experiences, and independence for students.”
• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) : “Analyzing the effectiveness of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) emphasizes their significance in providing personalized learning pathways for students with special needs.”
• Parental Experiences in Special Education : “Exploring the experiences of parents of children with disabilities within the education system sheds light on the challenges they face and the importance of collaborative partnerships.”
• Educator Training for Inclusive Classrooms : “Investigating the training and professional development needs of educators in inclusive classrooms addresses the necessity of equipping teachers with diverse teaching strategies.”
• Peer Support Programs : “Analyzing the benefits of peer support programs in fostering positive relationships between students with and without disabilities underscores their role in promoting empathy and understanding.”
• Accessible Learning Materials : “Examining the impact of accessible learning materials, such as Braille, a resources, and captioning, highlights their contribution to equitable educational experiences.”
• Sensory-Friendly Environments : “Investigating the role of sensory-friendly environments in schools demonstrates their ability to create inclusive spaces that accommodate the needs of students with sensory sensitivities.”
• Transition from School to Post-School Life : “Analyzing the transition process for students with special needs from school to post-school life underscores the importance of vocational training and community integration.”
• Mental Health Support in Special Education : “Exploring the intersection of mental health support and special education reveals the need for comprehensive strategies that address the unique emotional needs of students with disabilities.”

Education Thesis Statement Examples for Gender Equity

Exploring gender equity in education, a thesis statement could be: “Implementing gender-sensitive policies and curriculum reforms is essential to eliminate gender disparities in education, empowering all students to fulfill their potential regardless of gender.

• Gender-Sensitive Education : “Implementing gender-sensitive policies and curriculum reforms is essential to eliminate gender disparities in education, empowering all students to fulfill their potential regardless of gender.”
• Gender Bias in Educational Materials : “Examining the impact of gender bias in textbooks and educational materials underscores the importance of representation and accurate portrayals of diverse gender identities.”
• Gender-Responsive Pedagogy : “Analyzing the role of gender-responsive pedagogy in promoting equitable learning experiences challenges traditional teaching practices that perpetuate gender stereotypes.”
• Teacher Expectations and Gender : “Exploring the influence of teacher expectations on student performance highlights the need to address unconscious biases that can hinder gender-equitable educational outcomes.”
• Single-Sex Education vs. Coeducation : “Investigating the impact of single-sex education versus coeducation on academic achievement and personal development offers insights into the effects of different learning environments.”
• LGBTQ+ Students in Educational Settings : “Analyzing the experiences of LGBTQ+ students in educational settings emphasizes the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces that respect and celebrate diverse identities.”
• Gender-Balanced Leadership : “Examining the impact of gender-balanced leadership and decision-making in schools addresses the need for role models and equitable representation at all levels of education.”
• Gender-Based Violence Prevention in Schools : “Investigating the effects of gender-based violence prevention programs in schools emphasizes their role in fostering respectful relationships and safe learning environments.”
• Parental Attitudes and Gender Roles : “Analyzing the influence of parental attitudes toward gender roles on children’s educational and career aspirations underscores the need for comprehensive family and community involvement.”
• Culture, Gender Equity, and Education : “Exploring the intersection of cultural norms, gender equity, and education in diverse societies reveals the complex factors that shape educational opportunities and challenges for different genders.”

What is a Good Thesis Statement about the Lack of Education?

A strong thesis statement about the lack of education should succinctly capture the essence of the issue while outlining its significance and potential consequences. Here’s a guide to crafting a powerful thesis statement on this topic:

Example Thesis Statement: “The pervasive lack of accessible education in underserved communities perpetuates cycles of poverty, limits economic mobility, and hampers societal progress, necessitating urgent reforms to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all.”

• Identify the Issue : Clearly state the problem you’re addressing – in this case, the lack of education.
• Highlight Significance : Express why the issue matters by emphasizing its impact on individuals and society as a whole.
• Show Consequences : Indicate the adverse effects of the lack of education, such as perpetuating poverty and hindering progress.
• Mention Urgency : Communicate the importance of addressing the issue promptly, as well as the need for reform.

What is an Example of a Thesis Statement in Inclusive Education?

A thesis statement on inclusive education should emphasize the importance of creating learning environments that cater to diverse learners’ needs. Here’s a guide to crafting such a thesis statement:

Example Thesis Statement: “Inclusive education, through its emphasis on diverse learning styles, individualized support, and community engagement, fosters a holistic and equitable learning experience that empowers all students to reach their fullest potential.”

• State Inclusion as a Goal : Clearly mention that the thesis is about inclusive education.
• Highlight Diverse Learning Styles : Emphasize the importance of accommodating various learning styles and needs.
• Emphasize Individualized Support : Stress the role of personalized assistance and adaptations in inclusive education.
• Mention Community Engagement : Indicate how involving the community contributes to a successful inclusive education environment.
• Discuss Empowerment : Express how inclusive education empowers all students to achieve their best outcomes.

How Do You Write a Thesis Statement for Education? – Step by Step Guide

• Identify Your Topic : Determine the specific aspect of education you want to address.
• Understand the Issue : Gain a deep understanding of the topic’s significance, challenges, and potential impact.
• Craft a Clear Idea : Develop a concise and focused main idea or argument related to education.
• Make It Debatable : Ensure your thesis statement presents an argument or perspective that can be debated or discussed.
• Address Significance : Highlight why the topic is important and relevant in the context of education.
• Consider Counterarguments : Acknowledge potential opposing viewpoints and consider incorporating counterarguments.
• Keep It Concise : Your thesis statement should be a single, clear, and well-structured sentence.
• Reflect Your Essay’s Scope : Make sure your thesis aligns with the scope of your essay or paper.
• Revise and Refine : Review and revise your thesis statement to ensure its clarity and accuracy.
• Seek Feedback : Share your thesis statement with peers or instructors for feedback and suggestions.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement on Education Topics

• Be Specific : Clearly state what your paper will address within the broad topic of education.
• Avoid Generalizations : Avoid overly broad or vague statements that lack focus.
• Express a Strong Position : Your thesis should convey a clear stance on the issue.
• Consider Your Audience : Tailor your thesis to resonate with your intended audience.
• Use Precise Language : Choose words that convey your message concisely and accurately.
• Make It Unique : Craft a thesis that sets your essay apart by presenting a unique perspective.
• Reflect Your Essay Structure : Your thesis should mirror the overall structure of your essay.
• Be Open to Revisions : Be willing to adjust your thesis as your research and writing progress.
• Proofread Carefully : Ensure your thesis statement is free of grammatical and typographical errors.
• Revise as Needed : It’s okay to revise your thesis as you refine your arguments and analysis.

Remember, a strong thesis statement sets the tone for your entire essay and guides your readers in understanding the focus and direction of your work. You may also be interested in our  thesis statement for informative essay .

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

• Teacher Must-Haves
• Writing Ideas
• Get to Know You Ideas
• Procedures Checklist
• Review Procedures
• Morning Work Ideas
• Classroom Management
• Character Traits
• Compare and Contrast
• Read Alouds
• Point of View
• Reading Response Ideas
• Summarizing
• Text Features
• Text Structures
• Find the Fib
• Reusable Ideas
• Disclosure Policy
• Dollar Deals
• Lifetime Access

Teaching Theme So Students Actually Understand

Teaching theme to 3rd grade, 4th grade, or 5th grade students is just plain HARD. Theme is an abstract idea, making it really hard for teachers to put into words and even harder for students to grasp.

If your students are struggling with understanding theme, rest assured that they are not alone!  Teachers all over the world have this same struggle.

Teachers often teach theme by creating anchor charts that list common themes or that list questions students should ask themselves when trying to determine the theme of a passage or story.  These are helpful and good strategies to use, but most students will still have no clue how to determine the theme independently just through the anchor charts.

There are other strategies you can use to help scaffold student understanding.

Why Teaching Theme is So Hard

Students struggle with theme because it is unlike anything else they have learned in their ELA classroom.

In order to identify the theme of a text, students must also have the ability to summarize important parts of a text so that they have a clear understanding of what an entire passage says.  Students must be able to distinguish the theme from the main idea.   They must understand what lesson the author is trying to teach and recognize that they can disagree with the author's point of view.   They must have a solid grasp of story elements and how characters change. They must be able to make inferences.

On top of all of that, students must understand how to actually determine the theme, which is a challenge in itself.  No wonder teaching theme is so hard!

Make Sure Students Have a Solid Foundation

If your 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th grade students struggle with summarizing or determining the main idea, then figuring out how to determine the theme of a story will be almost impossible.

If you have students that are still struggling with these skills, then check out these tips for teaching students to summarize so that they actually understand,  and how to determine the main idea so that they actually understand. 

Introduce Theme With Shorter Text

Shorter texts allow for plenty of opportunities for you to model how to find the theme of a story and plenty of opportunities for students to practice.

Shorter texts keep students from being overwhelmed and getting frustrated.

Shorter texts allow you to focus primarily on finding the theme, and less on decoding words and difficult vocabulary.

Shorter texts make it easier for you to determine where your students are struggling and how to reteach.

Shorter texts for practicing theme can be hard to find.  Use this no prep theme freebie with short texts to help make your theme lesson planning easier.

Shorter texts are simply a must-have when introducing your students to theme.

Teach Confusing Aspects of Theme in Isolation

Often theme instruction is limited to explaining what theme is, providing examples of theme, and modeling to students how to find the theme of a story.

But there are many aspects to theme that can be confusing for students.  By teaching each of these in isolation, you can more easily figure out where your students are struggling.

The aspects of theme that I have found confuse students the most -  as well as ideas for teaching each aspect - are below.

• Themes aren't usually stated in the passage.   To help students better understand this, have students read a paragraph with a clear theme.  Tell students the theme of this paragraph, using a think aloud to explain how you figured it out.  Go back and reread the passage, showing students that the theme was not stated anywhere in the passage.
• Completely different stories can have the same theme.  Seeing the same theme played out with a variety of different characters and plots can really help students better understand how to determine the theme.  Read several very different paragraphs, each with the same theme to students.  This resource contains 16 different short stories, each with one of 4 themes,  to make teaching this aspect of theme easy on you.
• Theme and main idea are different.  This is essential for students to understand, but very hard to teach. To help students understand this, have them read a short passage with a clear theme.  Then, write 5 statements - 3 details from the passage, the main idea of the passage, and the theme of the passage.  Do not tell students what is what, but instead have them figure that out.  Doing this activity repeatedly really helps solidify students' understanding of the difference between main idea and theme. If your students are still struggling with main idea, then this activity will also help them be better able to differentiate between main idea and details.  (This is one of the most popular activities in my Teaching Theme Bundle.)

• You don't have to agree with the theme.   This is particularly important in a world where biased information is available everywhere.  Students need to know that they do not have to agree with everything they read.  A good way to do this is to show students two paragraphs with opposing themes and have students discuss which theme they agree with more.  For example, you could have a paragraph with the theme of "You can always trust your friends" and another paragraph with the theme of "If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself."
• A reading passage or text can have more than one theme.   This can be confusing to students, as not all passages have more than one theme, while novels almost always do.  Build up to determining the theme of novels by showing students shorter passages with at least two themes.
• Themes are meant to apply to real life.   This is an important aspect of theme - themes are not just a lesson for the characters in a story.  The author intends for people to learn from the theme of a story.  To practice this, read short passages with clear themes and, after identifying the theme, ask students how they could apply it to their own lives.  (Or have them explain why they wouldn't want to apply it to their own life.)

Low Prep Resources to Help Your Students Understand Theme

Most theme resources simply provide students with more practice.  They don't help students better understand theme.

If you find teaching theme to be frustrated, or if you have students that just don't get it, then this no prep resource will make your life easier and leave your students with a much clearer understanding of how to find the theme of a story.

It includes activities to help students practice each of the confusing concepts listed above in isolation, and it includes plenty of shorter texts to keep students from feeling overwhelmed.

"I can't tell you how much I love this! Theme is so tough for fourth graders but this unit explained the nuances so well. I'll be using this every year!" " I have the main idea scaffolded resource and love it, so I knew this was a good choice for theme. Because theme is such a difficult concept for most students, I wanted something that really broke it down into manageable chunks, and this did that."

Download this cut and paste theme freebie here!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

What Is a Theme Statement?

What Is a Theme?

What is an example of a theme, what is the purpose of having a theme, understanding themes through titles, analyzing stories for theme, how to write a theme statement.

Many of today's great works of art – whether they are works of literature, movies or symphonies – use a variety of compositional tools to create a multifaceted meaning. These tools can be symbolism, metaphor, allusions, well-known quotations and a variety of other recognizable strategies and devices. They work together with the artwork’s main idea to illuminate a deeper universal meaning for the audience. That deeper meaning is called the theme, which is the backbone to all great works of art and literature.

​ The theme statement is a sentence or two that defines the theme of the piece of art, entertainment or literature. The theme is the subject of a piece, but it should not be confused with the main idea or plot. ​

​ The ​ ​ theme ​ ​ is ​ ​ the big idea an author is trying to convey. ​ This may sound complicated, but it is a concept that you run into on a daily basis. Themes are easier to see and recognize than the concept is to define.

The easiest way to think about the concept of the theme is to ask yourself this question: ​ What ​ ​ concept ​ ​ was ​ ​ the ​ ​ writer ​ (​ if ​ ​ you're ​ ​ studying ​ ​ a ​ ​ work ​ ​ of ​ ​ literature ​) ​ trying ​ ​ to ​ ​ express ​ ​ with ​ ​ her ​ ​ story ​? The concept we are talking about here is not the plot. Instead, it is more of a ​ ​ universal ​ ​ message ​, ​ one that would be recognizable to the average reader given the interplay of the plot and other story elements.

Sometimes the theme of a work of literature can be summed up with just a word like love, loneliness or death. A work in which a theme can be summed up so succinctly generally offers an exploration of that idea, expanding on it by using many aspects of that single concept.

Other works can have more complex themes, such as the alienation created by technology or the impact of gender roles on society. These works might offer various tableaux that explain the author’s point of view on that subject while still maintaining the plot.

The options authors have for themes are endless. While many authors attempt to incorporate a grain of universal truth with their theme, ​ most ​ ​ do ​ ​ not ​ ​ begin ​ ​ writing ​ ​ with ​ ​ a ​ ​ set ​ ​ theme ​ ​ in ​ ​ mind ​. Instead, they endeavor to ​ tell ​ ​ a ​ ​ story ​ ​ and ​ ​ allow ​ ​ the ​ ​ theme ​ ​ to ​ ​ develop ​ over the course of the story’s writing.

"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a book with multiple themes. If you have read the book, you probably remember that the titular character, Gatsby, has been pining for Daisy Buchanan for years. It would not be off base to say that one of the novel’s themes is love. A student could also interpret the same aspects of the novel as contributing to a theme of unrequited love or heartbreak.

The most famous theme of "The Great Gatsby," however, is the ​ American ​ ​ dream ​. In Fitzgerald’s day and well into the 21st century, the concept of the American dream was often defined by achieving financial independence. It was the attainment of the proverbial house with the white picket fence.

However, if you have read the book, you know that Fitzgerald's famous novel does not praise the American dream – ​ it criticizes it. ​ Striving for wealth and other things he did not have ultimately lead to Gatsby's tragic downfall. The way the plot works together with the novel’s major images and symbols shows that ​ “the downfall of the American dream” ​ is the novel’s most important theme.

The most famous theme of "The Great Gatsby," however, is the American dream.

​ The ​ theme statement ​ is a sentence or two that defines the theme of the piece of art, entertainment or literature. ​ Theme statements tend to be used in discussions regarding that work of art or literature, but the most common times you are likely to find them as a student is either when you’re reading a descriptive analysis of that work of art or literature or when you are writing a descriptive analysis (like a report or paper) yourself.

A theme statement usually ​ states the work’s theme succinctly, allowing for elaboration as the discussion or paper goes on. ​ In this way, a theme statement can act as a thesis statement, preparing the reader or listener for the rest of the journey through the analysis of that work.

Themes often develop even when the author or artist isn’t actively thinking about making them. Since defining a theme is often used to sum up the focus of a work of literature, ​ works of literature that are well formed and developed will almost always have one or more themes. ​

For readers, understanding the theme of a work can help the reader to ​ appreciate that work’s deeper meaning. ​ Themes also ​ allow authors to comment on humanity or society without being too obvious or on the nose. ​ There is an old adage for writers: Readers like to work for their supper. If the larger theme of the work is too conspicuous, the work as a whole may come off as trivial or too simple.

Working to understand a work’s theme also gives readers a chance to ​ flex their comprehension muscles ​. Interpreting a work’s theme requires reading between the lines and using critical thinking skills to decipher the author’s message from the text’s connotative meaning.

After you understand the background of a story, do a prereading exercise. Look over the story, starting with the title. Is the title symbolic? Of what does the title remind you? Make a note of that. ​ Titles are especially important in analyzing themes because many authors use them as clues to help the audience interpret the story. ​

Look for common symbols:

• ("Lonesome Dove" by Larry McMurtry),
• allusions ("East of Eden" by John Steinbeck)
• and quotations ("For Whom the Bell Tolls" by Ernest Hemingway).

If you discover hidden meaning in the story’s title, keep that meaning in mind as you continue reading. Write down every quote from the story that supports the title’s symbolism as the theme of the story. Don’t force it, though. If you can’t find anything to support the theme you discovered in the title, you may have to use a different interpretation for your theme.

After you have pondered over the title, read the story once for understanding. Jot down your first thoughts on reading it. What do you think the story is about? What do you think the author is trying to say?

After you have written down your first impressions, go back and read the story again. ​ Write notes in the margins (if you can) to help keep track of your thoughts. Look for symbols and motifs. ​ These striking images and repeating patterns will point toward the author’s meaning. For example, if the author repeatedly uses images, like crosses and doves, that remind you of Christian symbolism, then the author’s theme may be religious in nature.

If you’re lucky, your story may have what’s called a ​ “mouthpiece character.” ​ A mouthpiece character is ​ a character who voices a strong opinion and may speak at length about it. ​ If the character is a true mouthpiece character, his speech will ​ ​ reflect the author’s opinion, ​ ​ and it may well clue you in to the story’s main theme.

Whenever you think you may have discovered the theme, it is important that you ​ find other evidence from the text to support your hypothesis. ​ Well-written stories will have many parts that echo the theme.

If you find that the story’s symbolism, characters, plot, motifs, language and message all ​ connect along the lines of a single idea ​, you’ve found your theme.

How to Find the Theme of a Short Story

To find the theme of a short story, first do some background research. Find out who wrote the story, when it was first published and what type of story it is. Knowing this background information will help you immensely in discovering the story’s theme. This is because many genres of story have the same themes.

For example, many horror stories have death as a theme. Certain authors also use the same theme throughout many of their stories. Many O. Henry stories use situational irony to comment on an aspect of society.

Themes also go in and out of fashion, so certain stories from certain time periods may share the same theme. This is especially true of works published during historical periods when the influence of religion permeated all aspects of society. Stories published in these times will often rely heavily on morality lessons, and their themes will reflect such sentiments.

How to Find the Theme of a Poem

Finding the theme of a poem can be trickier than finding the theme of a story, but you can use the same strategies to get the job done. Consider the poem’s:

• background,
• figurative language
• and message.

Just like with a story, the elements of a poem will all work together to contribute to one or more themes.

One strategy you can use to find the theme of a poem is to make lists.

• After you have read the poem through once, brainstorm a few ideas of potential themes.
• Make each theme idea the heading of a list.
• Now go through the poem to find elements, such as allusions or images, that would belong in each list.

The longest list will represent your major theme.

How to Find the Theme of a Movie

Did you know that movies have themes too? This is the kind of theme you probably have the most practice talking about. If you’ve ever tried to convince your friend to see a movie, you most likely mentioned the theme without even knowing it.

The theme of a movie is the deeper answer to the question “What is the movie about?” If you said, “It’s a romantic comedy, but it’s really about friendship,” then friendship is that movie’s theme.

Most movies don’t require deep analysis to understand their themes. Many boil down to universal ideas like:

• friendship,
• and others.

Look at the actions of the main characters, especially toward the end, in order to identify the movie’s theme. Some movies, however, are more complicated. For more artistic movies, you can identify their themes using the same strategies you use with literature.

To write a theme statement, you should first discover the theme of the work you are discussing. ​ Perform a complete analysis of the work before you begin to discuss it or write about it. ​

A theme statement can come in many forms. Above all, your theme statement should be ​ easy to understand. ​ It should state the ​ title of the work, its author and one clearly defined theme. ​ The best theme statements work like thesis statements, succinctly defining the attributes of the work that back up your interpretation of the theme.

Here is an example theme statement:

It is clear that the death of the American dream is the most important theme of "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald because Gatsby represents the American dream, and striving for wealth and success ultimately caused his tragic downfall.

Related Articles

How to Write an Eighth Grade Book Report

How to Write a Motif Paper

Tips on Writing an Explication Paper on a Short Story

Famous Tragic Stories in English Literature

How to Analyze a Poem in Middle School

How to Title Your Literary Analysis

How to Write a Film Report

How to Write About Irony in a Literary Essay

• South Dakota State University: Universal Themes
• Literary Terms: Theme
• LitCharts: Theme
• EasyBib: How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement

Rebecca Renner is a teacher and college professor from Florida. She loves teaching about literature, and she writes about books for Book Riot, Real Simple, Electric Literature and more.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
• Vague sentences
• Style consistency

See an example

The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

• Choosing Essay Topic
• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
• AI Detector
• Plagiarism Checker
• Citation Generator

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, August 15). How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 13, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/thesis-statement/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples, how to write topic sentences | 4 steps, examples & purpose, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".

I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”

• WordPress.org
• Documentation
• Learn WordPress
• Members Newsfeed

Philosophy of Education Statement: Everything You Need to Know

• Philosophical Foundations of Education

This refers to a written description of what is considered to be the best educational approach. It’s a reflective and purposeful essay about a prospective teacher’s teaching beliefs and practices. This individual narrative also includes solid examples of the ways in which the author enacts these beliefs and practices in the classroom.

A philosophy of education statement should comprise an introduction, body, and conclusion. However, there’re specific components that the author needs to include in the statement. These include:

Introduction: This should be the thesis statement where the authors discuss their general beliefs about education and ideals in relation to teaching. One should consider what the pupils will have learned once they depart the class, after having been guided by the person’s teaching philosophy and strategies.

Body: In this section of the statement, the authors should discuss what they see as the ideal classroom environment and how it makes them better teachers , facilitates parent/child interactions, and addresses student needs. This section should also discuss how they’ll facilitate age-appropriate learning and how they’ll involve students in the assessment process. The authors should explain how they’ll put their educational ideals into practice. They should clearly state their goals and objectives for students . This helps the reader understand how their teaching philosophy will play out in the classroom.

Conclusion: In this part, authors should talk about their goals as teachers, how they’ve been able to meet them in the past, and how they can build on those to meet future challenges. They should focus on their personal approach to classroom management and pedagogy and how they wish to advance their careers to support education further. While the authors don’t need to use an official citation style, they should cite their sources.

There’s no right or wrong method to write a philosophy of education statement. However, authors should follow some general rules when writing such a statement.

Keeping it brief: The statement shouldn’t be more than one to two pages.

Using present tense: Authors should write the statement in present tense and in the first person.

Avoiding jargon: Authors should use everyday, common language and not technical terms.

Creating a vivid portrait: Authors should try to write the statement in a way that helps the readers take a mental peek into their classrooms.

Additionally, it’s important to talk about the authors’ personal experiences and beliefs. Authors should also ensure the statement is original and truly describes the philosophy and methods they’ll employ in teaching.

Related Articles

At a small school in a close-knit community, the teachers knew how…

Introduction: Snow days are a double-edged sword in the world of education.…

Introduction: Teachers are the guiding force and primary source of knowledge for…

Pedagogue is a social media network where educators can learn and grow. It's a safe space where they can share advice, strategies, tools, hacks, resources, etc., and work together to improve their teaching skills and the academic performance of the students in their charge.

If you want to collaborate with educators from around the globe, facilitate remote learning, etc., sign up for a free account today and start making connections.

Pedagogue is Free Now, and Free Forever!

• New? Start Here
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Registration

Don't you have an account? Register Now! it's really simple and you can start enjoying all the benefits!

We just sent you an Email. Please Open it up to activate your account.

I allow this website to collect and store submitted data.

50 Theme Statement Examples

Thematic statements are common in literary work. Writers use them to express their attitude towards the theme of their work or their intention in writing the particular literary piece.

Authors employ thematic statements to address readers and establish themselves as experts on the subject matter. They do this by sharing their knowledge, revealing their opinions concerning the theme.

What is a Theme Statement?

A theme statement is a sentence that reveals the general idea of the content as it is written and presented on paper. A good thematic statement is often an idea that can be condensed into one sentence or a generalization based on the entire content.

Why are Theme Statements Important?

• A theme statement helps readers focus on the main idea. Readers can then get an insight into what they are about to read, avoid being distracted by side issues, and stay on track.
• Thematic statements can be used by anyone who wants to make a point about what they are expressing. Teachers, business professionals, or students can use them to describe a project they have been assigned to do.
• A writer’s thematic statement is a reflection of their attitude towards the topic. It’s used to show what perspective they are using in writing about it.
• A good theme statement can be used to remind a writer of the project they have to do. It also acts as a guide that can help readers stay on track with what they are reading.

50 Thematic Statement Examples

The following are ten categories of theme statements with five examples for each category:

Theme statements about death

Theme statements about love

Theme statements about change

Theme statements about life

Theme statements about nature

Theme statements about friendships

Theme statements about faith

Theme statements about character

Theme statements about parenting

Theme statements about failure

Steps for Writing a Great Theme Statement

Remember that a theme statement is the essence of what you are trying to say about your subject. There are no rules or guidelines for writing one, but the steps below will get you there:

Consider several theme topics

Before deciding the most suited theme statement, you must have a list of options to choose from. Make sure you have a good understanding of the most important topics. Brainstorm as many ideas as possible

You’re not limited to a few sentences. Write as many as you can think of, then choose those that resonate with you most and discard those that don’t.

Analyze the options

Read through all your brainstormed ideas and think about which one fits in with your theme better than others. This step is to help you choose between your options, not eliminate them.

Do your research

Read through several sources on your chosen thematic sentence to get a better understanding. This will help you analyze the possible impact it will have on your audience.

Check out other theme statements

Going through and analyzing what other writers have will help you build your own. Try to see how they put it together and what makes their statement effective.

Decide on the best thematic statement for you

The right thematic statement is the one that best encapsulates what you want to say. You should feel confident about it and know that it will work well with your article.

Write your thematic statement

Once you’ve chosen your theme, it’s time to write your thematic sentence. Keep in mind that it should be both effective and efficient.

Tips for writing a good theme statement are:

• Stay away from cliches. Readers have heard them way too many times, and they don’t make an impact anymore. Stay original.
• Use active verbs to help your statement come alive. Words like ‘can’ and ‘will’ make a world of difference.
• Your theme should sound well thought out, not spontaneous or random. It should be relevant to the article and not seem like it’s added in for good measure.
• Make your thematic statement relate to what you are writing about.
• Vary your sentence structure and length.
• Make sure the first words of your thematic statement are powerful enough to grab attention.
• Don’t be long-winded. Nobody likes a drag; keep your sentence concise and to the point.
• Make sure that there is a logical connection between your theme statement and the article. Don’t contradict yourself.

Themes versus Theme Statements

Many people will use the terms themes and theme statements interchangeably, but they are two very different things. The following are differences between themes and theme statements:

• Themes are what you write about, while your thematic statement is a summation sentence of what you want to communicate.
• A theme can be a word, while a theme statement is a complete sentence. E.g., a love theme can just be written as “love” while the statement goes like, “Love is a powerful emotion; it cannot be quenched.”
• A theme can be anything, while a theme statement needs to have more structure. It’s basically the essence of your work.
• A theme can be interpreted in many different ways. A theme statement is a more specific and overarching message that leaves no room for doubts or second thoughts.
• A theme can be found in the body, while a thematic statement is used in the introduction.
• A theme can help you understand what you’re writing about, but a theme statement will help your reader better understand your topic.
• A theme can be anything that gives some kind of meaning to your work, while a theme statement projects what you’re writing about.
• The chosen theme can be an idea, while a thematic statement is worded to show the reader if they agree or not.
• A theme can be about any part of your work, while a thematic sentence condenses what needs to be communicated in the beginning paragraph.
• Remember that your theme is what you write about, but your thematic statement helps you communicate it.

Examples of themes versus theme statements

Bottom Line

You want your theme statement to be the final piece that brings everything together. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your article, and it may take some tweaking. Having a clear idea of what your essay is about and who your audience is will help you.

I ‘m a freelance content and SEO writer with a passion for finding the perfect combination of words to capture attention and express a message . I create catchy, SEO-friendly content for websites, blogs, articles, and social media. My experience spans many industries, including health and wellness, technology, education, business, and lifestyle. My clients appreciate my ability to craft compelling stories that engage their target audience, but also help to improve their website’s search engine rankings. I’m also an avid learner and stay up to date on the latest SEO trends. I enjoy exploring new places and reading up on the latest marketing and SEO strategies in my free time.

Similar Posts

Design of Research: A Definitive Guide

Research design is the framework for your research. It gives you a plan to follow to achieve your research goals. There are different types of research designs. These varieties are differentiated by their data collection and data analysis methods. Research design is a blueprint for your research. This article describes the different research designs and…

Case Study Research Method-Definition, Guide, and Examples

A case study is a research method in which the researcher collects data by observing and interviewing people. Often, the study is guided by a specific question or problem that needs to be answered. The goal of this type of research is not to answer broad questions about human behavior. It investigates a more narrow…

How to Write a Chemistry Lab Report

Chemistry is the study of matter and how it interacts with other substances. Chemistry Laboratory Reports are often used to analyze chemical reactions, test hypotheses, or explore scientific questions. A Chemistry Lab Report can be written using different formats depending on the type of experiment being conducted. For qualitative experiments (i.e., those not involving exact…

The Most Preferred Lab Reports Format

There are different report formats in a lab, but the most common lab report format is the “3-column” report. In this format, you have a column on the left side for your data and results, then another one in the middle for your methods and findings summary. The column on the right is for conclusions…

How to Write an Article Review

Article reviews are common practice in academia, and because of their importance, they need to be performed properly. Anyone can review articles as long as they understand the art. To learn how to write an article review, you should first understand what reviewing means. What is an Article Review? It refers to an analysis of…

100+ Cliché Examples in Writing

A cliché is an expression, idea, or element of an artistic work that has been overused to the point of losing its original meaning. ‘Cliché’ can also be used for phrases and words no longer regarded as authentic because they have been used too many times in different contexts. Clichés are often considered lazy writing….

Differentiate between themes and topics

Learning Center

Filter by Category:

Most would agree that a theme reveals a universal truth the author believes about people or a life lesson the reader should learn.

When standardized assessments challenge students to identify the theme of a passage, the prompt typically reads “ Which sentence BEST summarizes this text’s theme?” . It’s important to note that every answer listed is a sentence—not a single word or a phrase. Consequently, trust, obedience, perseverance in the face of adversity, etc. cannot be themes. Although, these recurring topics are a starting point, explicit instruction needs to guide students to infer thematic statements.

(The following 4-step process for inferring theme is based on a YouTube video created by middle school teacher Sara Johnson .)

STEP 1: Generate a list of topics relevant to the story.

Brainstorm a list of ideals that are representative of character actions. Consider the life skills characters demonstrated. Think about the admirable (or less than admirable) traits they revealed. Reflect on significant choices characters made. Such a list often includes words like: trust, obedience, perseverance in the face of adversity, etc.

Some teachers introduce these as “ universal themes .” Although such lists are a necessary first step, none of these words is a theme.

STEP 2: Complete the sentence: “The author believes that…”

As helpful as this sentence starter may be, many students initially just generate a vague sentence.

• The author believes that trust is important.
• The author believes that disobedience in bad.
• The author believes that perseverance is good.

To move beyond these broad statements, students need to focus on the why . More specifically, students need to extend the sentence to add more detail. This includes expounding on what about trust, perseverance, or obedience the author wants the reader to understand.

• The author believes that trust is important in order for people to grow deep relationships.
• The author believes that perseverance is good, even when an individual does not reach his goal.
• The author believes that disobedience is bad when it puts others at risk.

Notice that while elaborating on each ideal, specific references to character names, setting details, and individual actions are all avoided. A theme statement is a “universal” lesson, therefore it should not be specific to any one text. Rather, demonstrate how to use general references like a p erson, someone, an individual, people, etc.

STEP 3: Cross off the words “The author believes that.”

Practice only these first three steps, fine-tuning students’ abilities to craft a clear and focused theme that includes the what is important and why it is important. Eventually, add the expectation of textual evidence.

STEP 4: Add textual evidence.

All inferences require evidence. This is found in the additional sentences that support the theme. Using phrases like According to the text… One place the author shows this is…, students make specific reference to character names, events, actions, choices, settings, dialogue, etc. The first sentence is the broad theme and subsequent sentences are proof that the life lesson is learned in this text.

Provide for partnered practice

Once all four steps have been revealed, provide students numerous opportunities to practice. In her YouTube video, Sara Johnson shares a fabulous partnered activity.

• Generate an all-class list of “topics” described in Step 1.
• Pair up students and ask each to write a thematic statement following Steps 2-3.
• Each pair balls-up and tosses its wadded theme to another pair.
• Pairs read the new theme and add textual evidence to support it.
• Pairs ball-up and toss the themes a couple more times. Each time, a new pair jots additional textual evidence.
• Return the crinkled paper to the original pair to craft a constructed response .

View Related Articles

Related Articles

Identify and evaluate an author’s ideas

Distinguish main idea from theme

• Rating Count
• Price (Ascending)
• Price (Descending)
• Most Recent

Writing a theme statement

Resource type.

How to Find Theme and Write a Thematic Statement

Writing a Theme Statement Step-by-Step Digital Slideshow- Use with any text!

Reading Lesson: Writing a Theme Statement for Literature

End of the Year- Write a Theme Statement for your School Year! Narrative

How to Write a Thematic Statement : Theme of The Little Mermaid

How to Identify THEME & How to Write a THEMATIC STATEMENT

Theme Analysis Essay: Step by Step Writing Guide for Use With Any Text

Writing Theme Statements Mini-Lesson

Pixar Shorts for Teaching Theme - Determine Theme Practice Middle & High School

Teaching Theme and Topic

Theme Statement Writing with Short Films, Slam Poetry, and Music Videos!

Weather - Science through Art, Reading and Writing - Fabulous Weather

How to Write an Essay about a Literary Theme

Theme - Finding & Writing Thematic Statements : Slides, Worksheets, & Activities

The Theme is Theming: 3 Step How to Write a Thematic Statement Activity!

Narrative Imaginative Writing Unit 2023 Stage 2 Year 3 Year 4 Australian NSW

Disguise a Turkey Themed Write the Room Differentiated Writing Activities

A Lesson Before Dying Analysis Lesson: Topic, Theme , Thesis/Jefferson's Diary

Thesis Statement Bundle

Writing Theme & Thesis Statements : Pre- Writing Activity for Literary Analysis

Theme Statements & Evidence Card Matching Activity for "The Yellow Wallpaper"

Chalkboard Theme Common Core I Can Statements - Math- 5th Grade

Topic vs. Theme Write Thematic Statement Lesson Plan Worksheet HW Mini Project

Central Idea, Supporting Quotes, & Literary Analysis Writing Graphic Organizer

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

Search form

• Africa Dialogue Series
• Africa Dialogue Series 2024

ADS 2024, Permanent Representative of South Africa's statement

Text as delivered*

Thank you very much, ambassador. I wish to thank OSA and the AU Observer mission for this most timely event. It allows us to engage on some of the important issues that affect our continent's development, growth and prosperity. And I also wish to express my appreciation for the rich inputs we have received from our speakers in the last session. The timeliness of this high level meeting is that it empowers us to engage meaningfully in the ongoing processes at the UN that will shape the future of multilateralism, moving from a strong African base enables us to have a keen sense of how to show up and how to advance the interests of this beloved continent of ours. And showing up we are. And coming to the topic at hand, let me state upfront that the AU's annual theme of Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st century is most important.

It has also been carefully crafted to speak to lifelong learning, education at all stages of life and for various needs. Education is what takes nations forward and as Nelson Mandela said, education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. He further said, education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mine worker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farmworkers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another. My own mother, by the way, told me that education would be my best husband.

So when I respect coming to this theme in the 21st century that we have these challenges and opportunities, despite the many achievements that we have made as African countries so far in this century, there is still so much to do. And we heard earlier from our speakers and while our countries are doing their best, we all face the challenges of conflicts that are raging our planet that is under strain, the impact of climate and biodiversity that we so much depend on as Africa, the health challenges, including Covid. And we all know the impact of Covid 19 on the ability of our countries to continue making progress on agenda 2063 and the SDGs. Many of our resources had to be diverted to protect and save lives and livelihoods. Additional resources had to be sourced, forcing countries to incur debts at great cost. Today, many African countries are highly indebted and unfortunately, addressing sovereign debt has become one of the impediments to development and growth. And as I said, addressing the SDGs, and we have all seen the statistics that indicate the cost of servicing debt, Vis-a-vis budget allocation for health, education and infrastructure and I think that the SG spoke to that earlier today. Regardless, the current challenges should not get in the way of pursuing education with vigor. In fact, we need education to tackle all these challenges and hence Transforming Education Summit in 2022 was so critical and we need to implement its outcomes on digital transformation and its impact on education.

Excellencies, we know that the currency of the 21st century is digital, new and frontier technologies are the order of the day. Luckily, the AU has solid strategies. You've heard about CSR, you've heard about the one on science, technology and innovation and strategy for Africa. But further, we have in place the Digital Education Strategy Implementation Plan for 2023 to 2028. The challenge will be our commitment to implementing these strategies in all earnest and knowing the impediments and how to collectively tackle the impediments. The ongoing negotiations on the Global Digital Compact is part of the pact of the future, and the summit of the future gives us a good opportunity to ensure our needs of Africa, in their interest, are taken into account, and that our challenges are addressed. To date, the Africa Group has done its best encoding its input into the compact process that's underway. But we can do better for sure. And I just want to quickly recognize our own ambassador of Zambia who is the core facilitator for the GDC. As we negotiate the compact, the global digital compact. Let us look closely with an African lens at all the aspects of the compact, whether it's AI governance, rule of data, data governance, digital economies, green technologies, digital skills and capacities. Let's look at all of that with an African lens. And I just want to say it is meaningful participation of women and girls in digital transformation that we make the biggest difference. At a country level we need to look at our own government policies and strategies. Prioritizing Stem education, strong ecosystems for research and development in technology are needed. I always say instead of asking for technology transfer it instead of saying how do we create it ourselves? How do we invest in research and development so that we can come with our own technologies?

And we are doing that, but we can do more of that. Without these above elements the future of education and in a in a continent will be hamstrung. And I really believe that the current work that is being done by ECA on a country's roadmaps is essential. My last comments are on innovative financing for education.

At this juncture, we know of the SDG financing gap, and again, we hear about it and the fiscal constraints, that most of our countries have. It is therefore important that we explore other ways of accessing financing for SDG 4 quality education. There are currently instruments and mechanisms new and established that lend themselves to financing education. And some of those came out of the Transforming Education Summit in 2022 on new facilities and mechanisms. I just have two quick points to make. Firstly, we need to familiarize ourselves with the new tools and instruments like education bonds, debt swaps for education, loan buy downs and private sector impact investing in other global facilities. And one of them, the SG referred to. But understanding these it requires us to have the best skills and capacities in our own countries to negotiate access to such tools and mechanisms and possibilities in a way that we don't get shortchanged.

I've often heard about de-risking, and after we de-risk, we still don't get the benefit of that de-risking. Secondly, we need to look at our own domestic resources and prioritize education. Just understanding the percentage of funds spent in education vis-a-vis other SDGs and the impact and the return on that education and on budget decisions that we make is an essential part of the puzzle and will take us further down the line.

The UNDP specifically has done work that assists Member States to look at the SDGs in an integrated fashion and find ways to accelerate achievement of such while accessing private sector funding. It is for us, Excellencies, dear colleagues, to understand our specific situations, research and understand the possibilities are referred to and pursue opportunities and what's possible wisely. I thank you.

*This text is an AI-generated transcript of the statement, which was obtained from an archived video recording of the event. It is not an official text of the statement.

General Information

• About the ADS
• ADS 2024 Home
• Concept Note

Launch Messages

• Ms. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations
• H.E. Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson, African Union Commission

Sub-theme 1: STEM Education for the Fourth Industrial Revolution: Generating Decent Jobs for Africa's Youth

• Documentary Video Screening
• Video Interviews with Experts
• International Webinar
• Youth Stage
• Arts and Culture

Sub-theme 2: Transforming Education in Africa by Leveraging Innovative Finance and the Digital Revolution

Sub-theme 3: education and learning in crisis-affected  areas.

• Youth Stage | La place aux jeunes

High-level Policy Dialogue

• HLPD Programme
• High-level Opening Segment
• Setting the Stage
• Interactive Roundtable on the Theme of ADS 2024
• Closing Segment
• Press Materials