Lesson Plan: A Walk in the Dark by Jane Godwin
Grade Level: Year 9
Duration: 30 Minutes
Subject: English
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Analyze themes and characters in "A Walk in the Dark."
- Discuss the author's use of language and imagery.
- Reflect on personal responses to the text and relate them to broader themes.
Materials Needed
- Copies of "A Walk in the Dark" by Jane Godwin
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector (optional for visual aids)
- Paper and pens for note-taking
Lesson Structure
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Hook: Start with a thought-provoking quote from the text. Ask students, “What emotions does this quote evoke?”
- Objective Overview: Briefly outline what students will learn in today’s lesson.
Reading Activity (10 minutes)
- Group Reading: Divide students into small groups and assign each group a specific section of "A Walk in the Dark."
- Task: Ask each group to read their section and discuss the following:
- Key events and plot development.
- Character behaviours and motivations.
- Use of imagery and descriptive language.
Class Discussion (10 minutes)
- Sharing Findings: Reconvene as a class and have each group share their insights.
- Guiding Questions:
- What themes emerge from the different sections?
- How does Godwin use language to develop suspense?
- What is the significance of the setting in the story?
Reflection and Personal Response (5 minutes)
- Journal Prompt: Ask students to write a brief reflection on the following prompt: "What would you do if you found yourself in a situation similar to the characters in 'A Walk in the Dark'? How would you feel?"
- Share Responses: Allow a few volunteers to share their reflections with the class.
Assessment
- Participation in Group Discussion: Observe students while they discuss their assigned sections.
- Reflection Journals: Collect journal entries to assess students' understanding of the text and their ability to engage with its themes.
Conclusion
- Recap of Key Points: Summarize the main themes and character insights discussed during the lesson.
- Next Steps: Briefly introduce the topic for the next lesson, focusing on the analysis of imagery in literature, which will tie back to Godwin’s work.
Extension Activities (Optional)
- Creative Writing: Students can write a short story set in a dark environment, using vivid descriptions and suspenseful elements.
- Art Integration: Create a visual representation of a significant scene from "A Walk in the Dark" using mixed media.
Homework
- Prepare a character analysis of either the protagonist or antagonist in “A Walk in the Dark,” focusing on their development throughout the story and their significance to the overall plot.
This lesson plan aims to engage Year 9 students with "A Walk in the Dark" through interactive discussion and reflective writing, adhering to Australian educational norms and standards.