Z Book Study: Reading & Discussing "Animal Farm" by George Orwell for Teens
A wise, compassionate, & illuminating fable for high school learners. A farm is overtaken by its overworked animals. With flaming idealism & stirring slogans, they set out to create a paradise of progress, justice, & equality. A 3 week homeschool or after school high school class.
Dr. Kai Kafferly, PhD
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(579)
Star Educator
Popular
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
I want to assure you that the homework assignments may seem extensive at first glance, but they are designed to be manageable, flexible, and adaptable to each student's individual needs and abilities. Your well-being and comfort are paramount in my class, and I'm more than willing to make accommodations as needed to ensure an enjoyable and effective learning experience for each student. The due dates for homework are intentionally flexible, allowing students to work at their own pace. No student should ever feel stressed or overwhelmed in my class. I understand that every student is unique and may have different capabilities and requirements. Here's an overview of the homework schedule: **Week 1: Chapters 1-4:** - Live Class for an introduction and instruction. - Read chapters 1-4. - Complete four short Chapter Assignments. - Submit one Review Quiz privately to the Teacher for homework. **Week 2: Chapters 5-7:** - Live Class for comprehension, discussion, and Q&A. - Lecture and introduction for the next week's material. - Read chapters 5-7. - Complete three Short Chapter Assignments. - Submit one Small Project privately to the Teacher. - Submit one Review Quiz privately to the Teacher for homework. **Week 3: Chapters 8-10:** - Live Class for comprehension, discussion, and Q&A. - Lecture and introduction for the next week's material. - Read chapters 8-10. - Complete three Short Chapter Assignments. - Submit one Small Project privately to the Teacher. - Submit one Review Quiz privately to the Teacher. - Complete a final project comparing the movie to the book for homework. **End of Week 3: Extra Meeting** - Final Live Class for comprehension, discussion, and Q&A. Additionally, we'll have fun by playing Kahoot games in our live meetings. I'm always available to help and support each student, both during live meetings and every day of the week through private messaging. Remember, the amount of effort a student invests in the class will determine their level of understanding and engagement. This class may be condensed and slightly accelerated, but I'm flexible with the due dates and the amount of homework assigned. Differentiated instruction and assessment are key here – your student's needs come first. If you find that the schedule doesn't align with your student's abilities or requirements after the first week, please reach out to me via private direct message. We can work together to tailor the class to your student's needs, ensuring they enjoy the learning process without feeling overwhelmed. Good time management skills and self-motivation are valuable in this class, as most of the work is self-study. Learning to create a schedule and practice time management will be beneficial. Rest assured that I'm here to provide support, answer questions, offer guidance, and even arrange private one-on-one live video meetings when necessary. Your success and enjoyment are my top priorities.Assessment
Even though I don't rely on standard assessments, tests, or quizzes, my approach is more akin to a "portfolio" system. I assess students on a weekly basis, taking into consideration the following criteria: 1. Participation in our live video meetings, held once a week. 2. Active engagement with the weekly assignments, along with their responsiveness to my feedback on their answers. 3. Thoroughness and dedication demonstrated in their work and research on the weekly projects (if assigned), as well as their responsiveness to my comments on their project. 4. Overall engagement in the class as a whole. It's important to note that these assessments are tailored to each student's unique needs, abilities, challenges, and issues. Just as instruction is personalized, assessments are also individualized and crucial for the progress of each student. Let's collaborate to foster a positive and enriching learning experience for your teen. If you have any concerns or suggestions, feel free to share them with me via a private message through your Outschool Parent Account at any time throughout the course! Together, we can ensure a supportive and conducive environment for your teen's education.Grading
We don't necessarily need to view high school in terms of a full year, long semesters, or any specific timeframe. This rigid approach often results in a lot of time being wasted. Instead, let's consider it in terms of grade levels and credits. Keep in mind that high school credit is earned based on the amount of work and knowledge gained, not on weeks, or months. By adopting this perspective, we can help our teenage learners progress more efficiently. It's essential to remember that while you have the freedom and flexibility to structure your homeschooling, you still need to adhere to your state's home education laws. Legally, parents are recognized as teachers by the Department of Education. However, within these guidelines, you have room for customization. I can issue a certificate of completion for this class along with a letter grade and one credit. You can easily copy, paste, and print the weekly schedule from the Class Description or Learning Outcomes sections to showcase your teenager's progress. As the class nears its end, simply send me a private message through your Outschool Parent Account to request the certificate of completion by the third day after our final meeting if you wish to have one. I refrain from providing grades during the class, but I encourage you to reach out privately for updates on your teen's progress as frequently as you'd like. I value and welcome ongoing parent engagement throughout the entire course. The cumulative grade at the conclusion of the class is determined by considering the following factors: 1. Participation in our once-weekly live video meetings. 2. Active engagement with the weekly assignment combinations and their responsiveness to my feedback on their answers. 3. Thoroughness and dedication demonstrated in their work and research on the weekly project (if assigned), as well as their responsiveness to my comments on their project. 4. Overall engagement in the class as a whole. Feel free to connect with me at any time if you have questions or if you would like an update on your teen's academic journey. I believe that open communication is key to fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. The certificate of completion will include the student's first name, "Outschool," the course name, the course's end date, my full name and title as the Outschool teacher, 0.5 credit (per certificate), and a final letter grade ranging from A to D-. It's worth noting that I don't fail any students, as I believe that everyone, regardless of their level of involvement, gains valuable knowledge from the class. It's important to note that these assessments are tailored to each student's unique needs, abilities, challenges, and issues. Just as instruction is personalized, assessments are also individualized and crucial for the progress of each student. A = Excellent B = Great C = Satisfactory D = Needs Improvement Let's work together to create a positive and enriching learning experience for your teen.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner - Intermediate Level
🚩 ATTENTION! 🚩 Please carefully read 👇 👉 This class is now offered as a self-paced class here on Outschool. Please copy and paste the following link to read more about it and to enroll: 🔗 https://outschool.com/classes/reading-studying-the-novel-animal-farm-by-george-orwell-for-teens-VQxAJsu9?usid=Uy0RiQEo&signup=true&utm_campaign=share_activity_link The self-paced class has recorded teacher videos, a PDF of the book, assignments, and asynchronous teacher and student interaction throughout the 3 weeks. ⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫ 🐷 Welcome to an exhilarating high school-level journey through George Orwell's masterpiece, "Animal Farm." In this imaginative setting where farm animals overthrow their human oppressors and establish their own rule, we embark on a thrilling exploration of the Russian Revolution and its contemporary relevance. Will all the animals share in the newfound freedom, or will some elite pigs dominate? Are the animals content with their liberation, and who ultimately seizes control of the farm? As we delve into the world of language arts, we'll also plunge into the depths of social studies, exploring inclusivity, equality, sociology, and history.
Learning Goals
1. Trace and analyze the elements of authoritarianism and totalitarianism throughout the text.
2. Analyze the novel as an allegory - a critical commentary on the dangers of distorted Socialism and Soviet Communism.
3. Analyze Orwell's use of irony and its effects on the reader throughout the text.
4. Examine the elements of the fable in the text and analyze the advantages of the fable format for conveying social and political criticism.
5. Evaluate and discuss the novel as a critical commentary on the shortcomings and flaws inherent in human nature.
6. Evaluate and explain the role of religion in the text and tie it to the role of religion in the Soviet Union.
7. Analyze the character of Boxer as a symbolic depiction of working classes in the early twentieth-century Soviet Union.
8. Analyze the elements and effects of propaganda.
9. As a result of this class, you will be able to analyze the allegorical significance of characters and events in Animal Farm.
10. Compare and contrast the story with current events in the USA and World Governments.
11. Analyze how the plot and characters of Animal Farm mirrored the events and people of the Russian Revolution
Other Details
Learning Needs
I support unique learning needs by incorporating various teaching methods, offer flexible assignments, flexible due dates, additional resources, & fostering an inclusive environment. I also communicate regularly with students & parents.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined February, 2019
5.0
579reviews
Star Educator
Popular
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 Degrees
Doctoral Degree in Religious Studies from Ashford University
Master's Degree in Education from Ashford University
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Ashford University
Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences from Ashford University
👋 Howdy, Aloha, Bonjour, Namaste, Oi, Kon'nichiwa, Hola, Bonsaw, Salve, Shalom, & G'Day, & Hello There,
✨️ Are you brand new to Outschool? Is this your teen's first class? If so, use promo code DRKAIKA2020 at checkout after enrolling your teen into ANY class on Outschool to instantly save $20.00! 💵👍
Welcome to the wonderful world of Outschool! I'm thrilled to be part of your teen's educational journey, and I'd like to extend a warm invitation for them to explore the exciting classes I offer. Whether you're new to Outschool or a returning student, there's something special waiting for your teen in my classes.
😊 I believe that learning should be an engaging and enriching experience, tailored to your teen's unique abilities and needs. Differentiated instruction and assessment are the cornerstones of my teaching approach, ensuring that every student gets the support they deserve. I am here to serve you and your teen to the best of my ability, and I welcome everyone with open arms.
🏤 With over two decades of experience, I have had the privilege of teaching a wide range of subjects, from Social Sciences, History, and Psychology to Meteorology, Driver's Education, and literature like "Animal Farm" and "1984." My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences with an Education Concentration, a second Bachelor of Arts in Criminal & Social Justice, a Master of Arts in Education with Curriculum Development and Higher Education Specialties, and a Doctorate of Philosophy.
My passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom. I've had the honor of being an educator for over 20 years, working with high school students, inmates in county jails, and various educational institutions. My enthusiasm for guiding and mentoring students is unwavering, as I believe in not just teaching them new information but also empowering them to become independent learners.
My teaching philosophy draws from various educational theories, including constructivism, idealism, humanism, and realism. I incorporate brain-based techniques and focus on making learning enjoyable and engaging. Learning isn't just about textbooks; it's about exploring a variety of resources, including YouTube, articles, movies, and creative projects, to expand horizons. I use the "flipped classroom" and "open classroom" models in all of my classes. Every student has a voice to be heard and I make sure they are heard in our lively discussions!
😁 I understand the importance of making learning fun, exciting, and challenging. I'm committed to fostering an environment where students genuinely enjoy the learning process. I'm flexible and always ready to adapt to each student's unique needs, aspirations, and abilities.
When it comes to homework and deadlines, I practice differentiated instruction and assessment, ensuring that every student's pace and workload align with their abilities. After all, we're not in school; we're OUTschool, where the emphasis is on enjoying the learning journey.
I offer a wide variety of interesting, fun, and highly educational classes on Outschool. These classes are not only perfect for homeschoolers but also for after-school teens looking for enrichment and enjoyment.
🏅🏆 Here are some of my accomplishments and memberships:
■ "GED Educator of the Year" in the State of Florida in 2015 and "Educator of Distinction" in the State of Florida in 2019.
■ Awarded "Best Local Teacher" for Northeast Florida in 2021, 2022, & 2023.
■ Recognized as an "Empowering Educator" and an "Outstanding Educator" by Outschool.
■ Current member of various educational associations and advisory boards, including the GSA Network Educator Advisors Group, National Educator Association, Florida Council of Social Studies, TEACH Conference, Board Member of Colors Resource Center, National Safety Council's Advanced Driver Improvement & DUI Training, and the LGBTQIA Educators Commission.
■ "ACE Educator" certified by Outschool, focusing on Agency, Community, and Expertise.
I call Northeast Florida, USA my home and enjoy SEC college football, exploring diverse cultures, hiking in nature, playing chess, and immersing myself in the study of Meteorology. Teaching is not just a job; it's my passion and my life's greatest thrill.
I am here to support your teen in their educational journey, expand their minds, and help them achieve their goals. I greet every student and their parents with the utmost respect and kindness from the bottom of my heart.
💛 Warmest & Kindest Regards,
- Dr. Kai Kafferly
Scroll further down to see the parent reviews of my classes and my catalog of classes 👇Reviews
Live Group Class
$75
for 3 classes1x per week, 3 weeks
45 min
Completed by 124 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
3-8 learners per class
