Read this paragraph.

Sophie believed that she deserved a raise. She had been earning the same wage for two years, and her work responsibilities had greatly increased. She was often asked to train new waitstaff, and she knew her employer valued her expertise. When her employer arrived at work, Sophie started the conversation.

What theme is introduced through Sophie's actions?

Sophie has become a responsible employee.

It is important to train new employees.

People in positions of power should treat others kindly.

People must assert themselves to get what they want.

People must assert themselves to get what they want.

The main action in this text is Sophie's effort to start a conversation with her employer about the raise she feels she has deserved. All the information about why she deserves the raise is background information to show the audience that she has valid reasons for beginning this conversation about the raise. The reasons are not the main actions or purpose for the paragraph. Since Sophie is the one starting the conversation about the raise that she wants, she is asserting herself. This is the best theme choice.

Remember that a theme is a universal idea that can be applied across many situations. The first option, Sophie has become a responsible employee, only applies to this text. It is not a theme. The second is not a good choice because there is no proof that training employees is important in this paragraph. The third option is also not correct because there is no evidence that this paragraph is about treating others kindly.