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The Heart of the Story: Discovering Themes

SAT Score Range

3 sessions

🔥 7 spots left!

About

Have you ever read a story and thought, “Okay… but what does it really mean?” In this 3-part series, we’ll dig beneath the surface of short texts to uncover their deeper messages. You’ll learn how to identify both surface and depth themes, analyze how characters and conflicts develop those themes, and practice expressing your ideas clearly through strong literary commentary. Whether you’re new to literary analysis or want to sharpen your skills, this series will give you the tools to read with insight and write with confidence.


Tutored by

Alexia Elena A 🇷🇴

Certified in 1 topic

View Profile

I’m thrilled to be part of the Schoolhouse community. 📚✨ I’m here to share my learning journey and knowledge with others, and I’m equally excited to learn from everyone here! My passions span across literature, writing, and a variety of sciences. Also I love exploring how these subjects connect to the world around us. 🌍 Outside of academics, you’ll often find me on the tennis court 🎾 or planning my next adventure, as traveling and discovering new cultures constantly spark my curiosity. I look forward to connecting with fellow curious minds and diving into the world of learning together! As Serena Williams says, “Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up.” So let’s be those champions, keep pushing, and inspire each other every step of the way! 🤌🏻

Schedule

✋ ATTENDANCE POLICY

Since this series builds on skills from one session to the next, it’s highly recommended that you attend all three sessions so that everyone can stay on the same page. If something comes up and you can’t make it, please message me in advance. That way, I can help you catch up or share any materials you missed!

SESSION 1

6

Jun

SESSION 1

Other Topics

Other Topics

Fri 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM UTCJun 6, 4:15 PM - 5:00 PM UTC

What’s the difference between what a story says and what it means? In this session, we’ll explore surface themes (the obvious ideas) vs. depth themes (the underlying messages). Through short, engaging texts, you’ll learn how to spot themes and begin thinking about why they matter.

SESSION 2

8

Jun

SESSION 2

Other Topics

Other Topics

Sun 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM UTCJun 8, 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM UTC

Themes aren’t just hidden in the background—they’re built by what characters do and struggle with. In this session, you’ll analyze how character actions and conflicts help develop the main message of a text. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to “read between the lines.”

SESSION 3

13

Jun

SESSION 3

Essay Writing

Essay Writing

Fri 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM UTCJun 13, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM UTC

Now that you know how to find a theme, how do you explain it well? This session focuses on writing strong commentary about theme, using clear structure and specific evidence. You’ll write your own short paragraph and get friendly feedback to improve your analysis skills.


Public Discussion

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Jun 6 - Jun 13

1 week

45 - 60 mins

/ session

Next session on June 6, 2025

SCHEDULE

Friday, Jun 6

4:15PM

Sunday, Jun 8

2:15PM

Friday, Jun 13

2:00PM