Dear Parent/Guardian,

Your child is currently working on the literacy strategy, Recognize literary elements (genre, plot, character, setting, theme, problem, resolution), which helps with the overall goal, Comprehension.

When we read, we often recognize common elements of a story that include plot, character, setting, and theme. We use these elements to help us infer what will happen next. As readers, when we identify and understand these elements, we store this information to help us remember and comprehend what the story is about.

Literary elements work together to form the story and make it interesting. We learn literary elements separately, but we combine them when reading to give us a better understanding of the story. It is important that children specifically look for these elements as they first learn them. It is through exposure and practice that readers become good at using these elements to comprehend text.

How can you help your child with this strategy at home?
  1. When reading a story with your child, discuss the character. Begin by asking your child who or what the story is about.
  2. After determining the character, see if your child is able to tell you where and when the story occurs. Ask your child how they were able to determine the setting? Did they use pictures, words, or infer to establish the setting?
  3. Continue to read the selection and discuss with your child important events that occur in the story. Ask your child what the problem is in the story and how the problem was solved.
  4. Conclude the story by talking about the theme of the story. The theme is the underlying message, or meaning, of the story. Encourage your child to use what they know about the characters, setting, and plot to help determine the theme.
Thank you for your continued support at home!

—Mrs. Boushey

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