Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

Grade Level: 10-12 (This lesson plan explores themes relevant to mature audiences and uses witty language that may require higher reading comprehension)

Subject: English Language Arts

Time Allotment: Three class periods (can be adjusted based on class discussion and activities)

Learning Objectives:

Students will be able to identify and analyze the use of satire and social commentary in the play.
Students will be able to explain the significance of key characters and their actions in relation to the play's themes.
Students will be able to appreciate the use of wit, paradox, and epigrams in Wilde's writing style.

Materials:

Copies of Act I of The Importance of Being Earnest (focusing on the introduction of characters and central themes)
Whiteboard or projector
Markers or pens
Chart paper or handout for brainstorming
(Optional) Background information on Victorian society and social etiquette

Lesson Procedure:

Day 1:

Introduction (10 minutes):

Briefly introduce Oscar Wilde and his work, highlighting his wit, use of satire, and association with the Aesthetic movement.
Provide a short context of Victorian society, mentioning its emphasis on social status, reputation, and proper conduct.

A World of Frivolity (20 minutes):

Distribute copies of Act I of The Importance of Being Earnest.
Have students read Act I silently, paying attention to character introductions and dialogue.

Deconstructing the Surface (20 minutes):

Facilitate a group discussion about Act I. Ask questions to guide students' analysis, such as:

✵ What is the overall tone of the play in Act I?

✵ How do characters like Jack and Algernon use language and wit to establish their social standing?

✵ What are some of the social anxieties or concerns hinted at in their conversations?

✵ Identify specific examples of satire and explain what aspects of Victorian society Wilde might be critiquing.

Day 2:

The Importance of Being... (20 minutes):

Focus on the central theme of identity.
How do Jack and Algernon create alternative identities (Ernest) to escape their social obligations?
What does their need for these alter egos reveal about their true selves and Victorian societal expectations?
How does the play explore the concept of truth versus appearances?

Wit and Paradox (20 minutes):

Highlight Wilde's use of wit, paradox, and epigrams in the play.
Define these literary devices and provide examples from Act I.
Discuss how these elements contribute to the overall humor and satirical message of the play.
(Optional Activity) Have students identify and explain their favorite epigrams from Act I.

Day 3:

Beyond the Frivolity (20 minutes):

Explore the underlying themes beneath the comedic surface.
How does the play critique social class divisions and the obsession with reputation?
Are there any deeper messages about love, marriage, or societal hypocrisy?

Modern Connections (20 minutes):

Discuss the play's relevance to contemporary society.
How do themes of social status, identity performance, and the pursuit of appearances resonate with modern audiences?
Encourage students to find connections between the play and their own experiences or observations.

Creative Project (20 minutes):

Have students write a short dialogue scene in the style of Wilde, introducing two original characters who engage in witty banter and social commentary.

Differentiation:

Provide annotations or a glossary for students unfamiliar with Victorian vocabulary or slang.
Challenge advanced readers to research the Aesthetic movement and its influence on Wilde's work.

Extension Activities:

Students can create a visual representation of a key scene from Act I, focusing on the characters' interactions and the setting.
Have students compare and contrast The Importance of Being Earnest with another satirical comedy play or film.