I usually try to lecture on each play story or poem read during the year. There are weekly tests on which students are able to write from their lecture notes. Homework assignments are centered around the piece read and the students are to form essays from their notes.
Step One
I explain the elements of literature: plot, setting, character (main and subordinate), motivation, climax, theme, resolution, and conflict. I always try to use a copy of
Aristotle’s Poetics
. After each explanation, I write a short note on the board about each element and I either solicit questions or give several examples of each element from a story I spontaneously make up about the members of the class.
Step Two
Students read
Teacher
,
Teacher
. A lecture is given pointing out the main literary elements of this play. The students take notes on these elements as they are spoken and recorded on the board.
Step Three
Students write an essay (two paragraphs long) using their notes on
Teacher
,
Teacher
.
Step Four
Students read
Mr
.
Kincade
,
the Poet
. I lecture on the play without recording the notes on the board.
Step Five
Students write an essay on
The Poet
from their notes.
Step Six
In one paragraph students explain the elements of conflict in
Teacher
,
Teacher
. In another paragraph they discuss the theme of
The Poet
.
Step Seven
There is an oral discussion comparing the two plays.
N.B. All written assignments may be given as either classwork or homework.