Othello by William Shakespeare

Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

Othello by William Shakespeare

Grade Level: This lesson plan is adaptable for high school (9th-12th grade) depending on the complexity of activities chosen.

Subject: Literature

Time Allotment: This lesson plan is designed for 4-6 weeks, depending on how in-depth you want to go with the play and activities.

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to summarize the plot of Othello.
  • Students will be able to analyze the characters and their motivations.
  • Students will be able to understand and interpret Shakespearean language.
  • Students will be able to identify and discuss themes in the play, such as jealousy, prejudice, manipulation, and deception.

Materials:

  • Copies of Othello (there are many student-friendly editions available)
  • Whiteboard or projector
  • Markers/pens
  • Construction paper or other materials for activity props (optional)
  • Internet access (optional)

Lesson Outline:

Week 1: Introduction & Setting the Stage

  • Day 1:

✵ Introduction: Begin with a brief introduction to William Shakespeare and his importance in English literature. Discuss the historical context of Elizabethan theater.

✵ Building Background Knowledge: Brainstorm ideas about prejudice and racism. Briefly discuss the concept of Moors in Elizabethan society.

✵ Act I Introduction: Read Act I, Scene 1 as a class, discussing the characters and plot points introduced.

  • Day 2:

✵ Act I Analysis: Divide students into small groups and assign different scenes from Act I. Each group will analyze their assigned scene, identifying key characters, plot developments, and any foreshadowing they can find.

✵ Class Discussion: Have each group present their analysis to the class. Discuss as a whole class the themes and conflicts emerging in the play.

  • Day 3:

✵ Shakespearean Language: This lesson focuses on helping students understand Shakespearean language. Introduce key vocabulary terms and concepts like iambic pentameter, soliloquies, and asides.

✵ Activity: Students can rewrite a short excerpt from the play in modern English to solidify their understanding of the language.

Week 2 & 3: Delving Deeper

  • Days 4-8: Continue reading the play, Act by Act.

✵ Close Reading: Assign specific scenes for close reading, focusing on character development, symbolism, and dramatic irony.

✵ Activities:

  • Mondegreen Madness: Have students create a "Mondegreen" version of a famous soliloquy from the play, where they intentionally mishear the words to create a humorous new meaning. This helps with memorization and understanding the original text.
  • Character Portraits: Students create visual representations of the characters, including descriptions of their personalities, motivations, and relationships with others.
  • Discussions: Throughout the week, dedicate time for class discussions to ensure comprehension and analyze the play's themes. Encourage students to support their claims with textual evidence.

Week 4: Climax & Resolution

  • Days 9-10: Read Acts IV and V.

✵ Focus on the Tragedy: Discuss the elements of tragedy present in Othello. How does Othello fall from grace?

✵ The Role of Iago: Analyze Iago's character and motivations. Why does he manipulate Othello?

Week 5 & 6: Analysis & Reflection

  • Day 11:

✵ Final Discussion: Hold a final class discussion to summarize the play, revisit the main themes, and answer any lingering questions.

✵ Essay Prompt: Assign an essay where students analyze a specific theme in the play and its relevance to contemporary society.

  • Days 12-13 (Optional):

✵ Creative Projects: Students can choose from various creative projects to demonstrate their understanding of the play. Options include:

  • Modern Retelling: Rewrite a scene from the play in a modern setting.
  • Film Scene Analysis: Choose a film scene with similar themes to Othello and analyze the characters' motivations and actions.
  • Monologue Performance: Students can choose a character and perform a significant monologue from the play.
  • Day 14 (Optional):

✵ Extension Activity:

  • Research and discuss famous actors who have portrayed Othello throughout history.
  • Watch a film adaptation of Othello and compare it to the play (several film versions are available).