This class will take an in depth look at the novel Animal Farm by George Orwell and its purpose as an allegory that serves as a microcosm for real events in Soviet Russia.  Students will learn literary terms that are necessary for understanding the novel: fable, allegory, fairy tale, unreliable narrator, dramatic irony, and foreshadowing. Students will study propaganda techniques and be able to relate them to the novel as well as to identify them in real life.  Finally, students will explore the novel's theme and the author's purpose in writing the novel by learning the elements of writing a strong literary response essay.

Students will learn key definitions of literary devices used in the novel. Students will also explore the relationship between real history and the corresponding characters and events in the novel. The teacher will present information on the history of Soviet Russia and how the events and characters in Animal Farm are an extended metaphor for what happened. Students will participate and engage in a Nearpod presentation and videos provided by the teacher.

Students will make predictions about the outcome of the novel based on what they observe in the text and their knowledge of history.

They will have a reading comprehension check to make sure they are understanding both the literal and figurative meaning of the story as well as learn how to answer text based questions using logical answers and good writing skills.

Students will learn to identify propaganda techniques. They will participate in a Nearpod activity to observe and identify different techniques, how they are used, why they are used, and how the characters in the novel are able to persuade other characters to believe what they want them to.

Students will engage in exploring the theme and development of the plot. They will create a propaganda based speech based on the events in the novel which will be shared as a video or document with the teacher and other students to promote a deeper understanding of the theme and different techniques learned about.

Students engage in identifying key plot points and literary devices.

Students will have a reading comprehension check at the end of the novel to make sure they understand both the literal and figurative meaning of the story as well as continue practicing how to answer text based questions using logical answers and good writing skills. There will be an interactive, asynchronous Kahoot game they will participate in.

Students will be instructed in how to set up a strong literary essay. They will study elements of a literary essay and practice using good writing skills to convey their ideas. They will specifically look at thesis statement writing, topic sentences, and using textual evidence to support their claims.

Students will put everything together in an essay exploring the themes in Animal Farm. They will receive individual feedback from the teacher on how they can improve their essay writing skills in this area.

A digital copy of all materials will be provided, including access to the novel, which is in the public domain.