Free High School ELA Lesson Plan

I. Lesson Overview

This lesson will focus on identifying and analyzing symbolism in the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. Students will explore how Lee uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings and themes within the text. This lesson aims to enhance students' critical thinking and interpretative skills.

II. Grade Level

9th Grade

III. Duration

1 Week (5 Class Periods)

IV. Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Understand the concept of symbolism in literature.

• Identify examples of symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird".

• Analyze how Harper Lee uses symbolism to develop themes and convey messages.

• Express their interpretations of symbolic elements in the novel through discussions and written analysis.

V. Materials Needed

• Copies of "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

• Notebook/journal for note-taking and assignments

• Whiteboard and markers

• Projector and computer for video clips and presentations

VI. Lesson Activities

Day 1: Introduction to Symbolism

1. Begin with a whole-class discussion on the concept of symbolism in literature. Define symbolism and provide examples from well-known texts.

2. Introduce "To Kill a Mockingbird" and discuss its historical context and major themes.

3. Assign chapters 1-3 for reading as homework. Ask students to note any potential symbols they encounter.

Day 2: Identifying Symbols in Early Chapters

1. Facilitate a discussion based on students’ homework notes. Identify and list potential symbols from chapters 1-3.

2. Introduce the symbol of the mockingbird. Explain its significance and ask for students' initial interpretations.

3. Assign chapters 4-7 for reading. Ask students to continue identifying symbols and take notes in their journals.

Day 3: Analyzing the Mockingbird Symbol

1. Focus today's discussion on the mockingbird symbol. Use specific passages to illustrate its role in the text.

2. Divide the class into small groups. Each group will analyze a different character who represents the mockingbird symbol (e.g., Tom Robinson, Boo Radley).

3. Have groups present their findings and discuss how these characters embody the qualities of a mockingbird.

4. Assign chapters 8-11 for reading. Ask students to pay attention to how the symbolism of the mockingbird is further developed.

Day 4: Broader Symbolic Elements

1. Discuss other symbols in the novel, such as the Radley house, the camellia flowers, and the courtroom.

2. Use a projector to show clips from the film adaptation of "To Kill a Mockingbird" that highlight these symbols.

3. Engage students in comparing their interpretations of the symbols in the text to their representations in the film.

4. Assign chapters 12-15 for reading, instructing students to keep track of symbols in a T-chart format.

Day 5: Culminating Activity and Assessment

1. Conduct a class debate on how effectively Harper Lee uses symbolism to address social issues. Provide specific examples from the text.

2. Conclude with a written assignment where students choose one symbol from the novel and write an analytical essay (2-3 pages) on its significance to the overall themes of the book.

3. Allow time for students to share their essays in small groups, providing peer feedback.

VII. Assessment

Students will be assessed based on:

• Participation in class discussions and group activities

• Completion and quality of reading notes and T-charts

• Contribution to class debate

• Final analytical essay on symbolism in "To Kill a Mockingbird"

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