Overarching Theme

Today in Grade 7, one representative from each literature circle group presented to the rest of the class a mini summary of their novel thus far. As the students were sharing, I was recording words that they were using to describe the characters and plot. Here is the word splash of many words used to summarize: 

After each group shared, we discussed what our overarching theme for our Lit Circles is, based upon the words seen on the board. I had the students stand up if the main character in their novel was labelled with any of the words in blue, all students stood. We discussed the author's purpose for writing a novel from the perspective of a main character who may be labelled with these qualities. Now that the students know there is a overarching theme within our Lit Circles, it will guide or discussions in a meaningful way- relating many thoughts, opinions and feelings to the theme.