Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Literary Study

Students will study the classic Shakespeare play "Julius Caesar." Throughout the class, students will have the opportunity to expand their vocabulary--including period-specific terminologies. Students will also analyze characters, practice formal writing, practice figurative language, and strengthen reading comprehension. They will also be able to study how to read and understand literature written in a play format.


How is the class structured?
Students will receive reading assignments to complete before their live lesson time. Accompanying tasks each week will have students focus on critical aspects of the story, including vocabulary, characters, setting, and prediction. During live lessons, the instructor will lead students to give their thoughts on the novel and connect with the reading. Students will also be able to ask questions of the instructor and classmates. Students will also review the previous week's assignment and complete in-class work to expand their understanding of the week's topic. 


Course Breakdown

Week 1: This week focuses on providing students with background information on William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar's (ancient Rome) setting, and the format of a written play. Students will also consider the bias they hold, which might affect their point-of-view while reading the piece. 

Week 2: This week focuses on Act 1 of the play. The instruction for this week includes vocabulary study and a short written assignment (half page). Students will participate in a guided discussion during a live lesson.

Week 3: This week focuses on Act 2 of the play. The instruction for this week includes vocabulary study, historical context instruction, and a short written assignment (half page). Students will participate in a guided discussion during a live lesson.

Week 4: This week focuses on Act 3 of the play. The instruction for this week includes vocabulary study, dissection of figurative language, and a short written assignment (half page). Students will participate in a guided discussion during a live lesson.

Week 5: This week focuses on Act 4 of the play. The instruction for this week includes vocabulary study and a discussion of bias. Students will participate in a guided discussion during a live lesson. Students will also receive options for a project which they will present in week 6.

Week 6: This week focuses on Act 5 of the play. The instruction for this week includes vocabulary study, reviewing the plot (Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, and Denouement) of the play. Students will have an opportunity to present their projects during the live session this week.



What is your teaching style for this? How much will they interact? How will you teach?

This class is led with questions and materials designed for the play. Each week students are provided with background information that will make it easier to understand the material and the world in which Julius Caesar ruled. Visual and audio clips are used to enhance student understanding. Questions for discussion will both allow students to demonstrate reading comprehension and personal opinions. Students will be provided with assignments to complete before class. We will also complete a project based on the play and practice presentation skills during a live lesson.



Any required experience or knowledge learners need?
No in-depth academic background knowledge is needed to participate in this class. Students should be reasonably comfortable with technology to participate in any online interactive items during the course, like polls or group games.