The lesson began with a quick introduction to the ideas associated with the American Dream, the Myth of the West and the idea of the Frontier Spirit. Reference was made to Henry David Thoreau and his 'Walden Pond'. Students were introduced to Thoreau's need to 'LIVE DELIBERATELY' and his belief that 'THE MASS OF MEN LEAD LIVES OF QUIET DESPERATION'. Students should be aware of how Thoreau and Whitman viewed their America.
The second section of the lesson involved students modelling a response that reflected the level of detail expected in a quality A Level paragraph. This task was a response to the recent essays as it is apparent that some students need to develop their ability to explain how textual reference supports their opinion. This is the KEY area of our written work that has been identified as needing to improve. Student response was stunning. Much appreciated.
Students were then asked to consider why Carraway could be perceived as a sympathetic character as many essays contained this opinion but did not explain why Carraway could be considered sympathetic. The final section of the lesson explored the significance of chapter six with specific focus placed on Gatsby's attempt to capture the past and why Daisy finds the actress 'lovely' at Gatsby's party. Furthermore the class discussed the significance of the paragraph that includes the lines: ' But the rest offended her..because it wasn't a gesture but an emotion. She was appalled...by its raw vigour that chafed under the old euphemisms..'. Again, class response was outstanding.
Homework: Read chapter 7. It is a monster. This is the chapter that includes the squid fight.
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