Theme Anchor Chart word search puzzle worksheet activity

Theme Anchor Chart word search puzzle worksheet activity

Theme Anchor Chart Word Search

I created this 2-page word search for my 4th grade ELA class when they kept confusing theme with main idea. Now they search for 24 common literary themes like "courage," "friendship," and "perseverance" hidden in all directions. The best part? Watching them connect the words to our read-aloud books ("Hey! Kindness is the theme of Wonder!").

What’s Inside:
✔ 2 printable pages (word search + answer key)
✔ Bonus "Match the Theme" challenge (link themes to book titles)
✔ Bookworm-themed clipart

Teacher Win:
"A student shouted ‘I found acceptance—just like in The Name Jar!’ and the whole class started making connections!" – Ms. L., ELA Teacher

Perfect For:
• Reading comprehension review
• Literature circles
• Test prep without the stress

Sample Words:

• bravery

• family

• growth

Teacher Hack:
Pair with your classroom library—students mark books with sticky notes when they spot a theme