At the beginning of the novella, what does the repetition of the word 'sole' emphasize about Scrooge and Marley?

The repetition of 'sole' emphasizes the solitary and lonely nature of their lives.

The simile 'Hard and sharp as flint' is used to describe Scrooge. Explain what this suggests about his character and what potential might exist within him.

It suggests he lacks warmth and is merciless, but flint's ability to create fire implies a potential for warmth and change within him.

What does the simile 'solitary as an oyster' suggest about Scrooge's character?

It suggests that Scrooge has a tough exterior and is closed off from others, but also hints at a valuable 'pearl' or worthwhile quality hidden within him.

How does Dickens use humor in Scrooge's interactions, such as his comments to Marley's ghost, and why is this important for the reader's engagement with Scrooge's transformation?

Dickens uses wordplay and puns to make Scrooge less one-dimensional, encouraging the reader to engage with him and appreciate his transformation.

When Scrooge revisits his old school with the Ghost of Christmas Past, what contrasting words are used to describe him, and how does this develop the reader's empathy?

The juxtaposition of 'neglected' with 'friends' develops the reader's empathy by showing that Scrooge's isolation was not always his choice.

Reward and the Road Back

8th GradeELA45 min

aligned to Ccss Ccss.ela-literacy.rl.8.3

Learning Objective

I can analyze how a character responds to a reward and the challenges they face afterward.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

6 min

Ebeneezer Scrooge: Character Analysis - 'A Christmas Carol'

Mr Bruff

Guided Notes

9 min

Key concepts students will learn:

•
Dickens uses the simile ‘Hard and sharp as flint’ to describe Scrooge, implying a potential for a spark of warmth within him.
•
Scrooge is described as ‘solitary as an oyster’, suggesting a tough exterior but also hinting at something worthwhile to be discovered within.
•
Scrooge's transformation begins when he shows empathy towards the Ghost of Christmas Past, realizing that relationships, not money, bring happiness.

Practice

14 min

10 questions • Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Describe how Scrooge changes after he vows to honor Christmas. Provide at least two examples from the text that show his changed behavior and what challenges he might face maintaining this change.”

Teacher Guide

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Answer keys for all questions
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Reward and the Road Back

Learning Objective

Lesson Flow

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Guided Notes

Practice

Exit Ticket

Teacher Guide

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