A yearbook theme is a unifying idea that creates a distinctive personality for the book and encourages staff to present events through a new perspective. The theme should be based on the characteristics of the school and reflect the audience. An effective theme includes a brief phrase that sums up the idea and creates an identity, graphics that enhance the phrase, and theme-related copy throughout the book. Developing the theme through the cover, endsheets, title page, opening/closing sections, and division pages helps explain the theme and its relation to the school year.

1. Unit 4: Theme Development A yearbook theme is a unifying idea that creates a distinctive personality for the book. Encourages staff to present events and activities through a new perspective and it challenges the imagination of readers. Based on characteristics of your school and should reflect an understanding of your audience.

2. Theme Phrase If a theme is an idea, the phrase, graphics and related copy are the devices which bring that idea to life. A brief phrase or slogan is the foundation of any theme package. It sums up the idea and creates an identity. Keep your phrase short. A phrase with many words is harder to remember and is a mouthful to say. BUT a theme phrase can be too short. One word statements tend to lack impact and are difficult to modify for use in various sections of the book.

3. How a theme is developed GRAPHICS: A visual tie will enhance the theme phrase and add to the total theme package. Should reflect the mood you wish to convey.

4. Theme-related copy Copies complete the understanding of the theme. The Cover The first exposure to the theme Include theme phrase, but not dominate the design. Name of the book and year should be incorporated. Design and colors should differ year to year. Using school colors is encouraged every few years. Look to television, fashion trends, magazines, newspapers and other printed materials for help. Consider the spine. Include name of your school, year and volume number of the book.

5. Endsheets The first place to DEVELOP your theme. May cost more to print on endsheet.

6. The Title Page Theme develop continues on this page 1. Should make a strong statement while providing the title information presented in Unit 3. Maintain the graphic style introduced on the cover and front endsheet here and throughout he opening section.

7. The Opening and Closing Sections Serves as the introduction Should clearly explain theme and how it relates Photos must be accompanied with captions Graphics must remain consistent Length can vary from 3 to 7 pages.

8. Division Pages Single or double page spread Should be designed similar, thought not necessarily identical, layout style. Consistent graphics and theme-related copy are also important. Sub-theme is preferred.

9. More Theme Development Plug theme into various sections of the book. Examples: Theme-related feature stories Student quotes Surveys Theme variation for an index

10. External Theme Development Increase yearbook sales Increase visibility of yearbook staff Promotes school spirit

11. Brainstorming Everyone should participate. Think positively. More is better. Build good ideas on top of each other.