Lesson:
At this level, most lessons involve discussion of the reading and writing the students have been doing. This is what we did this lesson, as well, discussing how to understand and write about characters, conflict, symbolism, irony, and ambiguities in literature.
Assignment:
Students are to read a short novel and make notes for analysis. I am suggesting The Giver by Lois Lowry. Written for junior high and up, this controversial book has won more acclaim (ten prestigious awards) and stirred more challenges (efforts to ban) than perhaps any other work in recent times. Its delicate treatment of important but disturbing themes has made it a "must-read" in almost every curriculum in the nation, including among many Christian homeschooling programs. It is easy to read, yet difficult to digest. All of that makes it ideal for literary analysis at this level.
I am providing copies for students to borrow and parents to review. Any parents who object to The Giver may offer alternate titles for analysis.
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