Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Subject: Literature (American Literature, Historical Fiction) Grade Level: 11-12 (due to mature themes) Time Allotment: This lesson plan is designed for a unit of 4-6 weeks, with daily reading assignments and classroom activities.
Learning Objectives:
- Students will analyze the historical context of the American Civil War and Reconstruction era as depicted in the novel.
- Students will develop close reading skills to identify literary devices, themes, and character development.
- Students will explore the complex societal issues of race, class, and gender presented in the novel.
- Students will engage in critical discussions and debates about the novel's portrayal of history and its characters.
Materials:
- Copies of "Gone With the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell
- Whiteboard/Projector
- Markers/Pens
- Chart paper
- Handouts with discussion prompts/analysis worksheets
- Access to historical resources on the Civil War and Reconstruction (optional)
Lesson Outline:
Week 1: Introduction & Setting the Stage
- Introduction (Day 1):
✵ Introduce Margaret Mitchell and the historical context of the novel (pre-Civil War South).
✵ Discuss the genre of historical fiction and its challenges/interpretations.
✵ Briefly discuss the controversy surrounding the novel's portrayal of race and history.
- Antebellum South (Day 2-3):
✵ Students read the opening chapters, focusing on the social dynamics and values of the pre-war South.
✵ Class discussion: Analyze character introductions like Scarlett O'Hara and Ashley Wilkes.
✵ Identify literary devices used by Mitchell (simile, metaphor, foreshadowing).
Week 2: The Civil War & Its Impact
- The Outbreak of War (Day 4-5):
✵ Students read through the outbreak of the Civil War and its impact on the characters' lives.
✵ Class discussion: How does the war change the characters' priorities and perspectives?
✵ Analyze Scarlett's motivations and actions throughout the war.
- Loss & Devastation (Day 6-7):
✵ Students focus on the hardships faced by civilians during the war and Reconstruction.
✵ Class discussion: How does Mitchell depict the physical and emotional toll of war?
✵ Explore themes of survival, resilience, and loss.
Week 3: Reconstruction & Social Upheaval
- The End of the War & Reconstruction (Day 8-9):
✵ Students read about the aftermath of the war and the challenges of Reconstruction.
✵ Class discussion: Analyze the societal changes brought about by Reconstruction, particularly regarding race relations.
✵ Discuss how characters like Rhett Butler navigate the new social order.
- Race, Class, & Gender (Day 10-11):
✵ Students engage in a critical analysis of the novel's portrayal of race relations, class structures, and the role of women in Southern society.
✵ Group discussions: How does the novel perpetuate or challenge existing stereotypes?
✵ Encourage students to consider the author's perspective and potential biases.
Week 4 & 5: Character Analysis & Themes
- Character Development (Day 12-13):
✵ Students focus on specific characters and their journeys throughout the novel.
✵ In-class writing assignments: Analyze the development of a chosen character.
✵ Consider how their motivations, actions, and personalities evolve over time.
- Themes & Enduring Questions (Day 14-15):
✵ Class discussion: Identify major themes in the novel (war, survival, ambition, love, loss).
✵ How does Mitchell use these themes to convey her message?
✵ What are some enduring questions raised by the novel (war and memory, societal change, individual vs. society)?
Week 6 (Optional):
- Film vs. Novel (Day 16-17):
✵ If time allows, compare and contrast the novel with the film adaptation.
✵ Class discussion: How does the film portray the story and characters differently?
✵ Analyze the effectiveness of storytelling in both mediums.
- Research & Presentations (Day 18-19):
✵ Students can choose a topic related to the novel or the historical period for further research.
✵ Allow time for students to present their findings to the class.
Assessment:
- Class participation in discussions and debates
- Written assignments analyzing characters, themes, and literary devices
- Quizzes or short essays testing comprehension of plot and historical context