Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The Once and Future King by T.H. White

Grade Level: 9-12 (depending on reading level and historical context)

Subject: English Literature

Time Allotment: This lesson plan is designed for a 50-minute class period, but can be adjusted based on the needs of your students.

Learning Objectives:

Students will be able to identify key themes in the early chapters of "The Once and Future King," such as education, leadership, and the nature of power.
Students will be able to analyze the role of Merlyn the magician and his teaching methods.
Students will be able to discuss the significance of humor and anachronisms in the novel.

Materials:

Lesson Procedure:

Introduction (10 minutes):

Bell Ringer: Begin with a brainstorming activity. Ask students to write down what qualities they associate with a good leader and a good education system.
Background and Context: Briefly introduce the legend of King Arthur and the significance of the Arthurian mythos. Mention that T.H. White's novel offers a unique perspective by focusing on Arthur's upbringing and education.

Activity: Education and Power (25 minutes):

Divided Text Analysis: Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific passage from Chapters 1-3 focusing on Arthur's education under Merlyn. (Examples: Chapter 1 - Arthur's transformation into a goose; Chapter 2 - Merlyn's lesson on history through time travel; Chapter 3 - Arthur's discussion on the purpose of war).
Group Work: In their groups, students will closely read the assigned passage and answer the following questions:

✵ What methods does Merlyn use to educate Arthur?

✵ What are some of the lessons Arthur learns from these experiences?

✵ How does this approach to education challenge traditional expectations?

✵ How does the concept of power play a role in these lessons?

Class Discussion: After a set time, have each group share their analysis with the class. Facilitate a discussion about the key themes that emerge from the passages, such as:

✵ The importance of practical experience and diverse perspectives in education

✵ The challenges and responsibilities of leadership

✵ The complex relationship between power and knowledge

✵ The use of humor and satire to convey serious ideas

Charting (Optional): If time allows, you can create a chart on the board where students can list the themes and supporting quotes from the text.

Wrap-up and Assessment (15 minutes):

Exit Ticket: Have students write a short reflection in their notebooks to solidify their understanding. Prompts could include:

✵ What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Merlyn's educational methods?

✵ How do the anachronisms in the novel contribute to its humor and meaning?

Homework (Optional): Assign students to read Chapters 4-5 and continue to analyze Arthur's education and the development of the themes in the novel.

Differentiation:

For struggling readers, provide them with scaffolding questions or a shortened reading passage.
For advanced students, encourage them to consider the historical context of education and leadership during the time period associated with Arthurian legends.

Extension Activities:

Have students compare and contrast Merlyn's teaching methods with traditional classroom settings.
Research the concept of a "bildungsroman" (coming-of-age story) and discuss how it applies to Arthur's journey.
Conduct a mock debate on the effectiveness of Merlyn's educational approach.
Create a timeline depicting the different educational experiences Arthur has under Merlyn's guidance.

Assessment: