What is an important skill in 5th-grade literature regarding character challenges?

Determining a theme based on character responses is a vital skill for 5th graders as it encourages readers to think critically about the narrative. When students examine how characters react to various challenges and conflicts, they can identify the underlying messages or ideas the author is conveying. This skill helps students connect the characters' experiences to broader themes that resonate with their own lives or societal issues, enhancing their comprehension and interpretation of literature.

Understanding character challenges allows students to delve into the motivations behind those challenges and consider the lessons learned through the characters' journeys. This analytical process fosters deeper engagement with the text and promotes discussions about values, relationships, and personal growth, which are pivotal in developing empathetic and reflective readers.