MONOMYTH: The Characters

Grade and Subject:

9-10, English Language Arts: Reading, Writing, and Understanding Literature

Common Core State Standards (CCSS):

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.3a Engage and orient the reader by setting out a problem, situation, or observation, establishing one or multiple point(s) of view, and introducing a narrator and/or characters; create a smooth progression of experiences or events.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.3b Use narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, description, reflection, and multiple plot lines, to develop experiences, events, and/or characters.

Essential Questions:

1. What makes a well-rounded character?

2. In addition to elements of monomyth, what elements must be present in a story to make it compelling to readers? Consider use of dialogue, exposition, character development, and sensory language.

Measurable Objectives of Lesson (SWBAT: Students Will Be Able to):

1. Students will write their stories according to their outline.

2. Student stories will employ the following techniques: Dialogue, exposition, character development, and sensory language.

3. Students will demonstrate working knowledge of each archetype and stage of the Hero's Journey through development of their outline and character sketch.

4. Students will be able to speak with understanding about their assigned individual archetype during group discussion.

Evidence of Differentiated Instruction:

Kinesthetic students might enjoy the stand-up archetype presentations or assisting with diagramming on the board as necessary. They will also be able to continue their outlines and character sketches using art techniques, as desired.

Grouping strategies:

1. Whole Group 

2. Small Group

3. Individual

Modalities:

1. Visual

2. Auditory

3. Kinesthetic

Materials:

1. Different colors of dry erase markers for board diagram

2. Art supplies as needed for diagram design

Key Vocabulary:

1. Dialogue

2. Exposition

3. Character Development

4. Sensory Language

Hook/Anticipatory Set: 

(15 minutes) Opening video clips and discussion—How many archetypes can you spot in these small clips from The Court Jester?

Teacher Instruction:

(15 minutes) Group discussion about archetypes identified. Segue into directive for short stories and discussion of key vocabulary as it relates to writing. 

Student Practice:

(20 minutes) Short presentations from each archetypal "group" about their archetype research. Individual writing if time allows. 

Assessment/Student Feedback: 

Formative assessment during discussion 

Closure:

Favorite story analysis is added to portfolio upon which summative assessment is based.