The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus

Literature Lesson Plans - Sykalo Eugen 2024

The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus

Grade Level: This lesson plan is intended for High School English, ideally 9th or 10th grade.

Subject: Literature

Time Allotment: One class period (approximately 50 minutes)

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will be able to identify key symbols and figurative language in "The New Colossus."
  • Students will be able to analyze the poem's theme of immigration and the role of the United States as a welcoming nation.
  • Students will be able to discuss the poem's historical context and its enduring relevance.
  • Students will be able to consider the poem's connection to the Statue of Liberty.

Materials:

  • Copies of "The New Colossus" by Emma Lazarus
  • Whiteboard or projector
  • Markers or pens
  • Handout with poem excerpt and discussion questions (optional)
  • Images of the Statue of Liberty (optional)

Lesson Procedure:

  1. Introduction (10 minutes):
  • Briefly introduce Emma Lazarus and her role in writing "The New Colossus."
  • Show an image of the Statue of Liberty and ask students what they know about the statue and its symbolism.
  1. Activation Activity (5 minutes):
  • Ask students to brainstorm words or phrases associated with immigration.
  • Briefly discuss the concept of a "colossus" and its potential meanings.
  1. Close Reading Activity (20 minutes):
  • Distribute copies of "The New Colossus."
  • Guide students through a close reading activity, focusing on:

✵ Figurative Language: Identify metaphors, similes, and personification used in the poem.

✵ Symbolism: Analyze the symbolic meaning of the "New Colossus," the "golden door," and the "wretched refuse."

✵ Structure: Discuss the sonnet form and how it shapes the poem's message.

  1. Theme Discussion (15 minutes):
  • Lead a class discussion based on the close reading activity:

✵ What is the central theme of the poem related to immigration?

✵ How does Lazarus portray the United States and its role in welcoming immigrants?

✵ How do the poem's symbols contribute to its message?

  1. Historical Context (5 minutes):
  • Briefly discuss the historical context of the poem's creation (late 19th century, rise of immigration to the U.S.)
  • How might this context have influenced Lazarus's writing?
  1. Enduring Relevance (5 minutes):
  • Discuss the poem's continuing relevance in today's world.
  • How do the themes of immigration and the role of the U.S. remain important?

Differentiation:

  • Provide scaffolding for close reading by offering guiding questions or a graphic organizer focusing on figurative language and symbolism.
  • Allow students to choose a specific line or stanza for deeper analysis.
  • Offer alternative assessment options, such as creating a visual representation of the poem's imagery or writing a letter to the speaker of the poem.

Extension Activities:

  • Students can research the history of immigration to the United States and different waves of immigrants.
  • Explore other poems or works of art that address the topic of immigration.
  • Have students write their own short poem inspired by "The New Colossus," reflecting on themes of welcome, displacement, or hope.

Assessment:

  • Participation in close reading activities and class discussions
  • Short reflection essay on the poem's meaning and its connection to the Statue of Liberty
  • Optionally, a one-page analysis of a specific symbol or figure of speech used in the poem