Literature in English JSS 2 First Term Lesson Notes Week 5

Subject: Literature in English

Class: JSS 2

Term: First Term

Week: 5

Age: 12 years

Topic: Theme and Setting in Drama

Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define and identify the themes in the recommended drama text.
2. Describe the setting and its significance to the plot and characters.
3. Analyze how the theme and setting contribute to the overall message of the drama.

Keywords

• Theme
• Setting
• Plot
• Character
• Dialogue

Set Induction

Begin the lesson by asking students what they think makes a story engaging. Discuss the roles of themes and settings in making a narrative compelling.

Entry Behaviour

Students should have a basic understanding of drama and its components, including plot and character.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Excerpts from the recommended drama text
• Whiteboard and markers
• Theme and setting analysis worksheets
• Visual aids (e.g., posters or slides depicting scenes from the drama)

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Review what students have learned about themes and settings in previous literary forms, such as prose and poetry. Discuss how these elements are similarly important in drama.

Embedded Core Skills

• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Communication skills

Content

1. Definition of Theme
   • Explain that a theme is the central idea or underlying message in a drama.
   • Themes can include love, betrayal, friendship, justice, and many others.
2. Identifying Themes in the Recommended Text
   • Engage students in identifying key themes present in the drama text. For example:
     • Example Theme: The struggle for identity in a changing society.
     • Discuss how characters express these themes through their actions and dialogue.
3. Definition of Setting
   • Define the setting as the time and place where the drama occurs.
   • Discuss how the setting influences the characters and events.
4. Analyzing the Setting in the Recommended Text
   • Describe the specific setting of the drama (e.g., historical context, location, and time period).
   • Discuss how the setting affects the plot and character interactions.
   • Example: A rural village setting may highlight themes of tradition versus modernity.
5. Relationship Between Theme and Setting
   • Discuss how the theme and setting are interconnected.
   • Explore how a specific setting can enhance or contrast the theme of the drama.
   • Example: A love story set in a war-torn country might highlight the theme of love’s resilience amidst conflict.

Evaluation

1. The _____ of a drama refers to its central message.
   • a) plot
   • b) theme
   • c) character
2. The _____ is where and when the story takes place.
   • a) climax
   • b) setting
   • c) conflict
3. A common theme in drama is _____.
   • a) humor
   • b) betrayal
   • c) cooking
4. The setting can influence the _____ of the characters.
   • a) wardrobe
   • b) actions
   • c) names
5. In the recommended drama, one theme is the struggle for _____.
   • a) power
   • b) wealth
   • c) time
6. The _____ often sets the mood for the drama.
   • a) dialogue
   • b) setting
   • c) characters
7. Characters reveal themes through their _____.
   • a) clothing
   • b) actions and dialogue
   • c) looks
8. A drama set in a school might explore themes of _____.
   • a) romance
   • b) education
   • c) both a and b
9. The _____ can help the audience understand the characters’ motivations.
   • a) sound
   • b) setting
   • c) costumes
10. The theme of friendship may be expressed through _____.
    • a) conflict
    • b) resolution
    • c) both a and b
11. The drama’s setting can provide _____ about the time period.
    • a) clues
    • b) distractions
    • c) confusion
12. A historical setting can impact the _____ of the plot.
    • a) development
    • b) ending
    • c) tone
13. The main conflict often ties back to the _____ of the story.
    • a) dialogue
    • b) theme
    • c) characters
14. _____ can change depending on the setting of the drama.
    • a) Themes
    • b) Colors
    • c) Pacing
15. The recommended drama text uses setting to enhance the theme of _____.
    • a) time travel
    • b) family bonds
    • c) isolation

Class Activity Discussion

1. What is the theme of the recommended drama?
   The theme explores [insert theme] and its implications for the characters and plot.
2. Why is setting important in a drama?
   Setting provides context for the story and influences the characters’ actions and motivations.
3. How can we identify the theme in a drama?
   Look for recurring ideas in the dialogue, actions, and conflicts of the characters.
4. What is an example of a theme in the drama?
   An example theme is [insert theme], which is shown through various character interactions.
5. How does the setting influence the characters?
   The setting shapes the characters’ backgrounds, motivations, and decisions.
6. Can a drama have multiple themes?
   Yes, many dramas explore several interconnected themes throughout the narrative.
7. What role does dialogue play in revealing themes?
   Dialogue reveals characters’ thoughts and feelings, helping to convey the underlying themes.
8. How does the time period of the setting affect the story?
   The time period can influence cultural norms, character behavior, and societal expectations.
9. Is setting only about the physical location?
   No, setting also includes the time, cultural context, and social conditions.
10. What happens if the setting changes?
    A change in setting can alter the story’s direction, themes, and character dynamics.
11. What is an example of how setting enhances a theme?
    A rural setting might enhance themes of tradition and conflict between old and new values.
12. How can students analyze themes in the drama?
    Students can discuss character motivations, plot developments, and key dialogues related to the theme.
13. What should we look for in character interactions?
    Look for how they express their feelings and beliefs, which often reflect the drama’s themes.
14. How can we summarize the setting of the drama?
    Summarize by describing the time, place, and social context that influence the story.
15. Why do authors choose specific settings for their dramas?
    Authors choose settings that best convey their themes and enhance the emotional impact of the story.

Presentation

1. Step 1: The teacher revisits the concepts of theme and setting from previous lessons.
2. Step 2: The teacher leads a detailed analysis of the recommended drama text, highlighting themes and settings.
3. Step 3: Students work in groups to discuss their findings and present them to the class.

Teacher’s Activities

• Facilitate discussions about themes and settings in the drama.
• Provide examples and clarify any complex ideas.
• Encourage participation from all students during discussions.

Learners’ Activities

• Analyze the text in groups, focusing on themes and settings.
• Participate in class discussions, sharing their insights.
• Complete theme and setting analysis worksheets.

Assessment

• Evaluate students’ understanding through group discussions and analysis worksheets.
• Collect and review students’ written responses to the theme and setting questions.

Evaluation Questions 

1. What is the main theme of the recommended drama?
2. How does the setting enhance the characters’ development?
3. Describe how the theme is revealed through dialogue.
4. What role does the setting play in the plot?
5. How do the characters interact with their setting?
6. What is the significance of the time period in the drama?
7. How does the author use setting to convey mood?
8. Can you identify any symbols related to the theme?
9. How do conflicts arise from the setting?
10. What message does the drama convey through its theme and setting?

Conclusion

The teacher concludes the lesson by emphasizing the importance of understanding themes and settings in drama. Encourage students to reflect on how these elements influence their interpretation of the story and its characters.