Exploring Themes in British Literature
Learning Objective
I can analyze themes in British literature.
Lesson Flow
Watch Video
Mining literature for deeper meanings - Amy E. Harter
TED-Ed
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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Two crucial thinking steps that can lead us to deeper meaning in literature are practicing insight and acknowledging complexity.
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Insight is the ability to arrive at an intuitive understanding of a big idea using only small clues, like noticing how Mr. Darcy's eyes linger on Lizzy in <i>Pride and Prejudice<i>.
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Acknowledging complexity means refraining from making broad generalizations and instead exploring each facet of a subject carefully, considering multiple influences on events, like Sethe's actions in Toni Morrison's <i>Beloved</i>.
Practice
7 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“Consider the character of Heathcliff in Emily Brontë's *Wuthering Heights*. Describe a specific instance where Heathcliff's behavior reveals a conflict between his outward actions and his inner feelings. How does acknowledging the complexities of his situation (e.g., social class, past trauma) contribute to a deeper understanding of a major theme in the novel?”
Teacher Guide
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- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
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