Lesson Plan: The Blind Men and the Elephant
Subject: English
Grade: 7
Length: 30 minutes
Topic: The Blind Men and the Elephant (Udana 68-69 - Buddhist)
TEKS: 110.5(B)(9)(C), 110.5(B)(10)(A), 110.5(B)(10)(B), 110.5(B)(11)(A)
Lesson Objective
Students will explore the fable "The Blind Men and the Elephant" to understand the importance of perspective and interpretation. They will engage in reading, discussion, and analysis, followed by a creative homework task.
Materials Needed
- Copies of "The Blind Men and the Elephant"
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector (optional for videos or images)
- Paper and colored pencils for drawing
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin with a brief introduction to the fable and its origins in Buddhist literature.
- Explain the moral of the story: how different perspectives can lead to different interpretations of the same object or truth.
Reading Activity (10 minutes)
- Hand out copies of "The Blind Men and the Elephant."
- Read the story aloud to the class, encouraging students to follow along.
- Pause occasionally to ask comprehension questions:
- What does each blind man think the elephant is based on his experience?
- How does this relate to the moral lesson of the story?
Group Discussion (10 minutes)
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Divide the class into small groups.
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Provide discussion questions:
- Why do you think the blind men were unable to understand the whole elephant?
- How can this story apply to real-life situations where people have disagreements?
- Can you think of a time when you had a misunderstanding due to a lack of perspective?
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After 5 minutes, regroup and have each group share their thoughts on the discussion.
Reflection and Closing (5 minutes)
- Summarize the key points from the discussion.
- Ask students how they can apply the lesson of perspective in their daily lives.
Homework Assignment
Task: Create a short comic strip (4-6 panels) that illustrates a modern scenario in which different people interpret the same situation in completely different ways. Make sure to include speech bubbles to convey dialogue or thoughts.
Homework Guidelines
- The comic strip should convey a clear narrative and moral similar to that of "The Blind Men and the Elephant."
- Use colorful drawings.
- Write a short paragraph (3-5 sentences) explaining the moral behind your comic strip.
Correct Answers for Homework Reflection
- Look for themes of misunderstanding or different perspectives in the comic strip.
- Ensure the comic portrays a moral that encourages looking at situations from multiple viewpoints.
- Verify that the written explanation connects the comic's moral back to the lesson of the elephant story.
Assessment
- Participation in group discussions.
- Engagement during the reading and reflection.
- Creativity and understanding shown in the homework assignment.
Make sure that students understand the moral lessons carried by the fable and how important it is to consider multiple perspectives in any disagreement or misunderstanding.