Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
Subject: Literature (Dystopian Fiction, Technology & Society) Grade Level: 7-9 (depending on reading maturity and discussions about surveillance) Time Allotment: This lesson plan is designed for a unit of 2-3 weeks, with daily reading assignments and classroom activities.
Learning Objectives:
- Students will analyze the concept of a dystopian society and its impact on individual freedoms.
- Students will explore the ethical implications of government surveillance and technology use.
- Students will develop critical thinking skills by questioning authority and considering alternative perspectives.
- Students will understand the power of digital activism and online communities.
Materials:
- Copies of "Little Brother" by Cory Doctorow
- Whiteboard/Projector
- Markers/Pens
- Chart paper
- Computers with internet access (optional)
- Construction paper/Craft materials (optional)
Lesson Outline:
Week 1: Introduction to Dystopia & Surveillance
- Introduction (Day 1):
✵ Briefly discuss dystopian fiction and its characteristics (oppressive government, loss of freedoms, etc.).
✵ Introduce Cory Doctorow and "Little Brother" as a story set in a near-future society with advanced surveillance.
✵ Class discussion: What are some concerns surrounding government surveillance in today's world?
- The Department of Homeland Security (Day 2-3):
✵ Students read the opening chapters, focusing on Marcus (主角 jū角 main character) and his life before the terrorist attack.
✵ Class discussion: Analyze the portrayal of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its methods.
✵ How does the DHS limit individual freedoms?
✵ Introduce the concept of a "police state."
Week 2: Hacking & Online Communities
- Marcus' Detention & Introduction to X (Day 4-5):
✵ Students read about Marcus' detention and introduction to the hacker collective X.
✵ Class discussion: Explore the concept of hacking and its ethical implications (black hat vs. white hat hackers).
✵ Analyze the role of online communities like X in supporting activism.
- Privacy & Digital Rights (Day 6-7):
✵ Students delve deeper into the themes of privacy and digital rights in the digital age.
✵ Class discussion: How can technology be used for both good and bad purposes?
✵ What are some ways individuals can protect their privacy online?
✵ (Optional Activity) Research and present on current events related to online privacy or digital rights.
Week 3: Taking Action & The Power of Words
- Marcus' Fight Back & X's Mission (Day 8-9):
✵ Students explore Marcus' efforts to expose the DHS's surveillance program.
✵ Class discussion: Analyze the different tactics used by X to fight back (hacking, information sharing).
✵ Discuss the importance of speaking out against injustice and the power of collective action.
- Themes & Wrap-up (Day 10-11):
✵ Class discussion: Identify major themes in the novel (freedom, surveillance, activism, friendship).
✵ How does "Little Brother" challenge readers to think critically about their relationship with technology?
✵ (Optional Activity) Create a graphic organizer or poster depicting the novel's themes.
Differentiation:
- Provide scaffolding for struggling readers by summarizing key chapters or offering audiobooks.
- Challenge advanced students with research on real-world hacking groups or privacy advocacy organizations.
- Kinesthetic learners can benefit from activities like building a model of a secure computer system with construction paper.
Extension Activities:
- Have students write a persuasive essay arguing for or against increased government surveillance.
- Research and discuss current examples of digital activism around the world.
- Create a fictional online community with its own rules and purpose, inspired by X.
- (Optional, with parental permission) Explore online resources about digital privacy and security for teenagers.