Theme

Theme teaches a life lesson.  It is what the author or the narrator wants the reader to learn.  It is always a complete sentence.  Choosing a topic first and "extending it into a life lesson" helps identify theme more easily.

The theme can also be found through the plot.  Here is a plot of the 3 Little Pigs outline.  Based on the conflict, I can identify a theme.  Taking your your time in the beginning and doing a little extra work, can be helpful in the end.