Lesson Plan
A Midsummer Night's Dream
| Subject: | Literacy |
| Grade span: | 6 to 8 |
| Duration: | 55 minutes |
Description:
This lesson is one example of how you can implement a book discussion group. After reviewing key themes and new vocabulary, students read a short story, a book, or a play together. Discussion questions encourage students to engage the material, making connections to their own lives, to other things they've read, and to the world around them.Learning Goals:
- Read with understanding and respond thoughtfully to the text
- Connect literature to oneself and the world
- Participate in a discussion, giving everyone a chance to speak
- Listen, ask questions, and respect others' opinions
Materials:
- A Midsummer Night's Dream from Shakespeare for Kids
- Chart paper with names of main characters and key vocabulary
Preparation:
- Review selection and identify key themes and any new vocabulary
- List main characters and vocabulary words on chart paper
- Come up with three or four discussion questions
What to Do:
- Introduce key themes and new vocabulary
- Introduce main characters and practice pronouncing names
- Read the selection aloud (take turns reading)
- Discuss reading selection, emphasizing connections to students' lives and the world around them. For example, Do you think this would ever happen to you? Why or why not? What would you do if you were in this character's position?
Evaluate (Outcomes to look for):
- Fluency in reading aloud
- Pronunciation that demonstrates understanding of what's being read
- Comments and answers that reflect understanding of literature, themes and vocabulary
- Comments and answers that reflect students' ability to make connections to themselves and the world
- Full participation in discussion, listening, taking turns speaking, and showing respect for others' opinions
