Grade: 9 Subject: English Language Arts (ELA) Topic: Understanding Fables - “The Ant and the Grasshopper”

Objective: By the end of this lesson, students will be able to: 1. Define what a fable is and identify its key characteristics. 2. Analyze the moral lesson conveyed in the fable “The Ant and the Grasshopper.” 3. Apply critical thinking skills to compare and contrast the fable with real-life situations.

Materials: - Copies of “The Ant and the Grasshopper” fable - Chart paper and markers - Whiteboard and markers - Internet access (optional)

Procedure:

1. Introduction (10 minutes): a. Begin the lesson by asking students if they have heard of the term “fable” and if they can provide any examples. b. Explain that a fable is a short story that teaches a moral lesson and often features animals as characters. c. Write the definition of a fable on the whiteboard and ask students to copy it in their notebooks.

2. Reading and Analysis (20 minutes): a. Distribute copies of “The Ant and the Grasshopper” fable to each student. b. Ask students to read the fable silently and underline any unfamiliar words or phrases. c. After reading, facilitate a class discussion to analyze the fable:
   • What is the main moral lesson of the fable?
   • Who are the main characters? What are their traits?
   • How does the fable use animals to convey its message?
   • What are some examples of personification in the fable?
   • How does the fable’s structure contribute to its message?

3. Moral Lesson Reflection (15 minutes): a. Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with a large sheet of chart paper and markers. b. Instruct each group to write down the moral lesson of “The Ant and the Grasshopper” at the top of the chart paper. c. Ask the groups to brainstorm and write down examples of real-life situations that reflect the moral lesson. d. Afterward, have each group present their chart paper to the class, explaining their chosen examples.

4. Application and Discussion (15 minutes): a. Lead a class discussion to compare and contrast the moral lesson of the fable with real-life situations presented by the groups. b. Encourage students to share their thoughts on the relevance of the fable’s moral lesson in today’s society. c. Discuss the importance of planning, hard work, and responsibility in achieving success.

5. Extension Activity (optional): a. If time permits, ask students to research and find other fables that convey similar moral lessons. b. Have students write a short paragraph comparing and contrasting the moral lessons of “The Ant and the Grasshopper” with the fables they found.

6. Conclusion (5 minutes): a. Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson. b. Ask students to reflect on how the fable “The Ant and the Grasshopper” can be applied to their own lives. c. Provide an opportunity for students to ask any remaining questions.

Assessment: - Participation in class discussions and group activities. - Completion of the chart paper activity, demonstrating understanding of the moral lesson. - Optional: Evaluation of the extension activity paragraph comparing and contrasting moral lessons.

Note: Adjust the duration of each activity based on the class’s pace and needs.