TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

Which instructional activity for fourth graders best prepares students to understand the concept of literary theme?

1. Students work in small groups to prepare a dramatic enactment of a meaningful scene from a story

2. Students read familiar fables and fairy tales, discussing their moral or meaning

3. Students read an age-appropriate story and list events and characters

4. Students read the first half of a story, outline events, and predict the moral

The correct answer is: Students read familiar fables and fairy tales, discussing their moral or meaning

The choice to have students read familiar fables and fairy tales while discussing their moral or meaning is particularly effective in preparing fourth graders to understand the concept of literary theme. Fables and fairy tales often contain clear, concise themes or morals that are easily identifiable, making them ideal texts for young learners to analyze. This approach allows students to engage with the text on a deeper level by encouraging them to identify the underlying messages or lessons the stories convey. By discussing what these stories aim to teach about human behavior or societal values, students can begin to grasp the concept of a theme as a central idea that is woven throughout a narrative. Additionally, fables and fairy tales are often familiar to students, which aids comprehension and allows them to focus on the thematic elements without getting bogged down by complex plots or characters. This familiarity also encourages meaningful class discussions, fostering critical thinking and the ability to communicate their ideas effectively, further reinforcing their understanding of literary themes.