Lesson Plan: The Hero’s Journey
Subject: English/Literature Grade Level: High School (9th-12th)
Introduction: - Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever heard of the term “hero’s journey” and what it means to them. - Explain that the hero’s journey is a common narrative structure found in many myths, legends, and stories throughout history. - Share examples of well-known heroes and their journeys, such as Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker, or Odysseus. - State the objectives of the lesson: to understand the stages of the hero’s journey and analyze its significance in literature.
Lesson Outline:
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Stage 1: The Call to Adventure - Introduce the first stage of the hero’s journey, where the hero receives a call to embark on a journey or adventure. - Show a video clip or use a visual aid to illustrate this stage (e.g., “The Lion King” - Simba’s call to adventure). - Discuss examples from literature or movies where the hero receives a call to adventure. - Engage students in a class discussion by asking questions like: - What are some common reasons for a hero to receive a call to adventure? - How does the hero typically respond to the call initially?
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Stage 2: The Road of Trials - Explain the second stage of the hero’s journey, where the hero faces various challenges and obstacles. - Show a video clip or use a visual aid to illustrate this stage (e.g., “The Hobbit” - Bilbo’s encounters with trolls, goblins, etc.). - Provide examples from literature or movies where the hero faces trials. - Engage students in a class discussion by asking questions like: - What are some common trials or challenges heroes face in stories? - How do these trials help the hero grow or change?
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Stage 3: The Abyss and Transformation - Introduce the third stage of the hero’s journey, where the hero faces a major crisis or ordeal. - Show a video clip or use a visual aid to illustrate this stage (e.g., “The Hunger Games” - Katniss’ confrontation with President Snow). - Discuss examples from literature or movies where the hero undergoes a transformation. - Engage students in a class discussion by asking questions like: - What is the significance of the hero’s transformation in the story? - How does the hero change as a result of the crisis or ordeal?
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Stage 4: The Return and Resurrection - Explain the fourth stage of the hero’s journey, where the hero returns to their ordinary world. - Show a video clip or use a visual aid to illustrate this stage (e.g., “The Wizard of Oz” - Dorothy’s return to Kansas). - Provide examples from literature or movies where the hero returns and faces a final challenge. - Engage students in a class discussion by asking questions like: - Why is the hero’s return important in the story? - What is the purpose of the final challenge or confrontation?
Questioning: - Throughout the lesson, ask open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and class participation. - Examples of questions to ask during the discussion: - How does the hero’s journey relate to real-life experiences or personal growth? - Can you think of any modern-day heroes who have gone through a similar journey? - How does understanding the hero’s journey enhance our understanding and enjoyment of literature?
Assessment: - Distribute a worksheet or handout that includes a short passage from a story or myth. - Ask students to identify and label the stages of the hero’s journey within the passage. - Collect and review the completed worksheets to assess students’ understanding of the hero’s journey.
Differentiation: - Provide additional support for struggling students by offering simplified examples or visuals to aid comprehension. - Challenge advanced students by asking them to analyze and compare multiple hero’s journeys from different stories or cultures.
Plenary: - Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson. - Ask students to reflect on how the hero’s journey can be applied to their own lives or experiences. - Encourage students to share their thoughts and insights with the class.
Resources: 1. Video: “The Hero’s Journey - Joseph Campbell” Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hhk4N9A0oCA
- Worksheet: “Identifying the Hero’s Journey” Link: [Insert link to worksheet resource]
Note: The video and worksheet resources provided are examples and can be substituted with other suitable resources based on availability and curriculum requirements.
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