Shakespeare
Description:
During this unit, students will explore the world of William Shakespeare and evaluate how his upbringing contributed to his literary works. They will read Shakespearean sonnets, as well as excerpts and key scenes from several versions of Hamlet, one of the Bard's most famous plays. In addition, students will get the chance to see Shakespeare enacted, and will get to participate in bringing scenes to life themselves.
Essential and Subject Question(s):
Activities and Assessment(s):
Text Set:
Materials:
During this unit, students will explore the world of William Shakespeare and evaluate how his upbringing contributed to his literary works. They will read Shakespearean sonnets, as well as excerpts and key scenes from several versions of Hamlet, one of the Bard's most famous plays. In addition, students will get the chance to see Shakespeare enacted, and will get to participate in bringing scenes to life themselves.
Essential and Subject Question(s):
- How do authors use particular language to convey a message?
- How did the cultural and historical context in which Shakespeare wrote affect his writing?
- What are some themes of specific Shakespearean works? What themes cross works?
- How does Hamlet fit into the structure of a five act play?
- What is a tragic hero and how does Hamlet exemplify this role?
Activities and Assessment(s):
- Comprehension and Quote Analysis Questions
- Translation and Paraphrase Activities
- Hamlet Scenes: acting out scenes from Hamlet in groups
- Peer Assessment: assessing the writing, presentations, and performances of peers
- Summative Assessment: mock trial or debate
Text Set:
- Poetry: Shakespeare's sonnets
- Fiction: Hamlet; "Hamlet By Horatio," from Scholastic VOICE
- Nonfiction: "Shakespeare: The Man and His Theater," from Scholastic VOICE
- Film: Franco Zeffirelli's Hamlet; excerpts from Shakespeare Uncovered: The Stories Behind the Bard's Greatest Plays (PBS)
Materials: