First Look at 1984

First Look at 1984

Grade 10th Grade · ELA · 50 min

What's Included

Learning Objective

I can identify the key themes and context introduced in the opening of 1984.

Warm-Up Video

TED-Ed · 5:32

What "Orwellian" really means - Noah Tavlin

Guided Notes

3 key concepts

  • 1

    The term "Orwellian" comes from George Orwell's novel 1984, which depicts an oppressive society under a totalitarian government.

  • 2

    Orwell was concerned with how ideologies spread, emphasizing the importance of language in shaping our thoughts and opinions.

  • 3

    In "1984," the government uses techniques like doublespeak and Newspeak to control language, manipulate meaning, and limit critical thought, leading to doublethink.

Practice Questions

12 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

Quick comprehension check

According to the video, what is the key theme of 1984, and how does the government of Oceania control its people?

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts