Thematic Statement

Master writing thematic statements with our 3-part formula: idea, assertion, and clause.

Thematic statements contain three parts:Thematic idea + assertion about the thematic idea + qualifying clause: when, because, unless, even, so that, if, etc.Here's an example:Thematic idea - courageAssertion - allows people to attempt difficult tasks in their livesQualifying statement - even when the possibility of failure is very highHere are all parts put together:Courage allows people to attempt difficult tasks in their lives even when the possibility of failure is very high. Choose one of the following thematic ideas: Growing up Making decisions Regret Sacrifice What is an assertion you can make about the above thematic idea based on your reading of "The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant"? An assertion is an opinion stated as a fact that is based on evidence. Consider the short story "The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant." What does the author want you to think about the thematic idea based on your reading? What "universal truth" is he trying to communicate? What is a qualifying statement you can make about your assertion that clarifies your idea even further? Themes in stories are complex ideas. Think about your assertion and see if you can make your idea more specific by adding a dependent clause using one of the subordinate conjunctions: when, because, unless, even, so that, if. Add all your parts together: Thematic idea + assertion about the thematic idea + qualifying clause: when, because, unless, even, so that, if, etc. Combine all parts to form one thematic statement.