Lesson Plan: Roald Dahl
Subject: English
Duration: 30 Minutes
Year Group: Primary (5th/6th Class)
Lesson Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Identify the characteristics of Roald Dahl’s writing style.
- Discuss themes and morals in his stories.
- Analyze specific excerpts from Roald Dahl’s works.
- Engage in creative writing inspired by Dahl’s storytelling methods.
Materials Needed
- Excerpts from Roald Dahl's books (e.g., Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Chart paper and markers
- Individual notebooks or writing paper
- Projector and screen (if applicable)
Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Begin with a brief introduction to Roald Dahl:
- Discuss his background and contributions to children's literature.
- Ask students if they have read any of his books and to share their favourite stories or characters.
Presentation (10 Minutes)
Group Activity (10 Minutes)
- Excerpt Analysis:
- Divide the class into small groups and distribute selected excerpts from Dahl's books.
- Each group will read the excerpt, discussing:
- What makes the excerpt humorous or engaging?
- How does Dahl develop his characters?
- What themes are present in the passage?
- Groups will present their thoughts to the class.
Creative Writing Activity (5 Minutes)
- Instruct students to write a short paragraph or story inspired by Roald Dahl’s style.
- Encourage them to use imaginative plots, create unique characters, and incorporate a humorous tone.
Conclusion (5 Minutes)
- Invite a few students to share their creative writing with the class.
- Wrap up the lesson by emphasizing the joy and creativity found in Roald Dahl’s stories.
- Assign students to read a Roald Dahl book of their choice for the next lesson, prompting a discussion that will follow about different interpretations and favourite moments.
Assessment
- Monitor group discussions during the activity for participation and understanding.
- Review the creative writing exercise to assess students' ability to emulate Dahl’s style.
Extension Activities
- Encourage students to illustrate their creative writing or create a comic strip based on their stories.
- Organize a “Dahl Day” where students come dressed as their favourite characters from his stories and share their insights about the characters with their peers.
This lesson plan is designed to engage students with Roald Dahl’s fascinating world and foster their love for reading and creative writing.