Little Brother by Cory Doctorow

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

  1. 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?

  1. 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

  1. 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.

  1. 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

  1. 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.

  1. 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.