An In-Depth Exploration of Golding's Lord of the Flies: Navigating Human Nature
What's included
12 live meetings
10 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students will be assigned a chapter per week, response writings and a final assessment (optional)Assessment
The assessment will evaluate the students' mastery of skills presented in the 12 lessons in the unit.Grading
Written responses will be graded based on applicable rubrics. The assessment as the end will receive a number grade (optional).Class Experience
US Grade 7 - 9
In this class, students will explore "Lord of the Flies" with a focus on understanding the author's background and the historical context of the novel. Through engaging activities, they will analyze characters, explore symbolism, and navigate leadership dynamics while honing their writing skills. The course emphasizes creative expression, critical thinking, and discussions on themes such as human nature and morality. Join us as we embark on a captivating adventure, fostering a love for literature and enriching your child's language and analytical abilities. Our virtual classroom is structured to provide an engaging and collaborative learning environment, fostering meaningful discussions and connections among students. Each lesson is crafted to balance informative content with application activities, encouraging participation and active learning. Themes of human nature, morality, and spirituality are approached through age-appropriate discussions, ensuring a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all students. The virtual classroom structure includes interactive sessions, group discussions, and collaborative projects, allowing students to connect with their peers, share insights, and build a deeper understanding of the novel. Our goal is to make learning both enjoyable and enriching, fostering a love for literature while enhancing language skills and critical thinking abilities. Class Lessons Lesson 1: Introduction to the Novel Objective: Introduce students to the background of the novel, including the author's life and the historical context in which it was written. Devices/techniques: Historical context, authorship, background Writing Skill: Summarizing information in a paragraph Lesson 2: Character Analysis - Ralph and Piggy Objective: Analyze the characters of Ralph and Piggy, discussing their personalities, motivations, and contributions to the group dynamics. Devices/techniques:: Characterization, motivations, dynamics Writing Skill: Character analysis essay Lesson 3: Setting and Symbolism Objective: Explore the significance of the island setting and identify symbolic elements within the novel, such as the conch shell and the beast. Devices/techniques:: Symbolism, significance, elements Writing Skill: Descriptive writing - creating a setting Lesson 4: The Conch and Leadership Objective: Examine the role of the conch in establishing order and the development of leadership dynamics among the boys. Devices/techniques:: Leadership dynamics, hierarchy, order Writing Skill: Persuasive writing - defending a leadership style Lesson 5: The Beast Within Objective: Discuss the theme of the "beast within" as it relates to the characters' descent into savagery and the breakdown of civilization. Devices/techniques: Savagery, descent, civilization Writing Skill: Reflective essay on human nature Lesson 6: Jack and the Hunted Tribe Objective: Analyze the character of Jack and his transformation into a leader of the hunted tribe, exploring power dynamics and conflict. Devices/techniques:: Power dynamics, conflict, transformation Writing Skill: Dialogue writing - exploring conflicts between characters Lesson 7: The Fire and Rescue Objective: Explore the importance of the signal fire and its connection to the boys' hopes of rescue, discussing themes of hope and desperation. Devices/techniques:: Signal fire, rescue, desperation Writing Skill: Creating a persuasive argument for rescue strategies Lesson 8: Beastie or Human Nature? Objective: Explore the philosophical questions raised by the novel regarding human nature, morality, and the potential for evil within individuals. Devices/techniques: Philosophy, morality, potential for evil Writing Skill: Critical analysis of philosophical themes Lesson 9: The Lord of the Flies Objective: Analyze the symbolism of the "Lord of the Flies" and its role in representing the darker aspects of human nature. Vocabulary: Symbolism, representation, darker aspects Writing Skill: Symbolism in literature - analyzing and writing about symbols Lesson 10: Simon's Epiphany Objective: Discuss Simon's role as a Christ-like figure and analyze his epiphany in the forest, exploring themes of spirituality and enlightenment. Devices/techniques: Epiphany, spirituality, enlightenment Writing Skill: Creative writing - crafting a scene of spiritual revelation Lesson 11: The Rescue and Irony Objective: Examine the ironic twist in the boys' rescue and discuss the implications of their return to civilization. Devices/techniques: Irony, implications, civilization Writing Skill: Exploring irony in literature - writing a short ironic story Lesson 12: Themes and Reflection Objective: Summarize key themes and lessons from the novel, encouraging students to reflect on the broader implications of "Lord of the Flies" in relation to society and human nature. Devices/techniques: Reflection, implications, broader themes Writing Skill: Summative essay on themes and reflections
Learning Goals
Students will learn to read literature critically with a focus on how authors develop meaning and an experience for the reader. Students will further explore concepts and themes that transfer to our essential understanding of humanity in general.
Through application opportunities and written expression responses, students will further develop their ability to express thoughts through writing with a clear and concise thesis statement and supporting commentary.
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Students will need a copy of William Golding's Lord of the Flies (or access to an online pdf).
Reviews
Live Group Class
$12
weekly or $144 for 12 classes1x per week, 12 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-14
3-12 learners per class