A theme is a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a story.

To convey means to communicate a message to the reader directly or indirectly.

Transformation is the process of significant change, often resulting in a big shift in character, beliefs, or behaviour.

Exploring and engaging with themes in 'A Christmas Carol'

English

In the current unit, pupils write a shorter narrative based on a film. In 'The Robin’, pupils write a narrative based on a film clip from beginning to end.

In 'The Firework Maker's Daughter', pupils developed the skill of writing speech sentences. In this unit, pupils will learn to write a short narrative based on a film.

'A Christmas Carol': narrative writing and reading

a big idea, topic or message that recurs within a story

to communicate a message to the reader directly or indirectly

What does Scrooge promise to do to help Bob?

True or false? Considering actions and characteristics of people within the text is a good way to identify a theme.

Which of these are themes from 'A Christmas Carol'?

After his transformation, Scrooge treats Bob like a close friend.

Scrooge eventually realises that he can be accepted by others.

For a long time, Scrooge treats others very badly.

Match the theme with how it's conveyed in the text.

At the beginning of the story, Scrooge is miserly and mean. Which words describe him at the end?

Which of these does the theme of love link to?

working out how a character might be feeling

Scrooge refuses Fred's offer for Christmas dinner.

Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his business partner.

Scrooge starts to realise the error of his ways.

Scrooge wakes up on Christmas day and he is transformed.

Order the following events from 'A Christmas Carol'.

True or false? Poverty in Victorian London was worse than in London today.

Which of these reactions suggest you are happy to see someone?

True or false? The moral of a story is the lesson it teaches you.

Starter Quiz