It's Easier Than You Think: Reading Animal Farm
In this course, we'll read the classic novel, Animal Farm by George Orwell, with a discussion-based approach designed to enlighten learners on the important themes and symbols--and through a sympathetic, character-driven lens.
Noah Welsh
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(92)
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
In this relaxed, discussion-friendly course, learners will take a refreshing look at George Orwell's Animal Farm. Often overshadowed by Orwell's more complex 1984, Animal Farm is just as sharp in its satire and every bit as deep in its commentary. In It's Easier Than You Think: Reading Animal Farm, we'll break the novel into two parts, dissecting the themes and philosophy of Orwell's work. Our approach will go further than that, though: we'll also read the novel as a character-driven story that is both deeply emotional and frustrating. As a piece of entertainment, Animal Farm is both accessible and rewarding. While there are several courses that touch on the literary devices of the novel (which we will cover, as well), our focus is on fostering a larger love of reading. Discussions will focus on the world in which Orwell was writing and how his ideas are relevant to readers today. We will read the book through the framework of a compelling drama to get a deeper sense of its impact.
Learning Goals
Students will read Animal Farm and gain deeper insight into its themes, symbols, and overall philosophy.
Students will gain a deeper emotional connection to the novel and its characters in order to promote a love of reading.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Animal Farm does contain some dark themes and violence toward animals. This is never excessive or overwhelming, but it can be uncomfortable for some younger learners.
Supply List
A hard or digital copy of the novel and tools for note-taking.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Copy of Animal Farm, either a hard copy or PDF version.
Supplies or devices to take notes.
Joined August, 2020
5.0
92reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I successfully taught many classic novels to reluctant learners in the past with this discussion-based approach. By taking away the sheer weight of reading a classic, learners can find their own emotional connections to the work--which will inevitably lead them to a deeper understanding of why it works so well. Using this approach in the past, I have successfully turned low-income students-at-risk into readers with a profound curiosity for digging deeper into the stories we think we know.Reviews
Live Group Class
$10
weekly1x per week, 3 weeks
50 min
Completed by 6 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
1-6 learners per class
