Learning Intention: Analyzing the characters of Mickey and Eddie in Blood Brothers, including key quotes, to understand their contrasting personalities and the impact of their upbringing on their lives.

Lesson Plan:

Introduction: 1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they are familiar with the play Blood Brothers by Willy Russell. Briefly explain the plot and the main characters, Mickey and Eddie. 2. Share the learning intention with the students: Today, we will be analyzing the characters of Mickey and Eddie in Blood Brothers, including key quotes, to understand their contrasting personalities and the impact of their upbringing on their lives.

Character Analysis: 3. Divide the class into two groups, assigning one group to analyze Mickey and the other group to analyze Eddie. 4. Provide each group with a character analysis worksheet that includes the following sections: a. Personality Traits: Students should identify and describe the main personality traits of their assigned character. Encourage them to support their descriptions with evidence from the play. b. Quotes: Students should select at least three key quotes that reveal important aspects of their character’s personality or experiences. They should explain the significance of each quote and how it contributes to the understanding of the character. c. Upbringing and Background: Students should explore the impact of the character’s upbringing and background on their personality and choices. They should consider factors such as social class, family dynamics, and education. d. Contrasting Personalities: After analyzing their assigned character, students should compare and contrast their character with the other character (Mickey group with Eddie, and vice versa). They should identify key differences in personality, behavior, and choices, and explain how these differences contribute to the overall themes of the play.

Group Discussion: 5. After completing the character analysis worksheet, bring the class back together for a group discussion. 6. Ask each group to share their findings about their assigned character, focusing on the personality traits, quotes, upbringing, and contrasting personalities. 7. Encourage students to ask questions and engage in a respectful discussion about the characters and their experiences.

Reflection and Extension: 8. Conclude the lesson by asking students to reflect on the impact of upbringing and environment on an individual’s life. Discuss how Mickey and Eddie’s different upbringings shaped their personalities and choices. 9. As an extension activity, students can write a short essay or create a visual representation (such as a poster or a comic strip) that highlights the contrasting personalities of Mickey and Eddie and the impact of their upbringing on their lives.

Conclusion: 10. Summarize the main points discussed in the lesson, emphasizing the contrasting personalities of Mickey and Eddie and the influence of their upbringing on their lives. 11. Remind students of the importance of analyzing characters and their quotes to gain a deeper understanding of a play’s themes and messages. 12. Encourage students to continue exploring the characters and themes of Blood Brothers in their own time, as it will enhance their appreciation of the play.