| Lesson Plan ID: |
11990 |
| Title: |
Depression or Oppression: "The Yellow Wallpaper" by C.P. Gilman |
| Overview/Annotation: |
In this lesson students research women's issues in the early 20th century and the attitude toward and treatment of mental illnesses then and now. The research complements the reading of "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Research provides the basis for a persuasive essay. |
| Content Standard(s): |
| ELA(11) | 1. Analyze authors' use of literary elements including characterization, theme, tone, setting, mood, plot, and literary point of view, in American short stories, drama, poetry, or essays and other nonfiction literature, predominantly from 1900 to the present. | | ELA(11) | 12. Use the research process to manage, document, organize, and present information to support a thesis on a literary topic. | | TC2(9-12) Computer Applications | 9. Practice ethical and legal use of technology systems and digital content. | | TC2(9-12) Computer Applications | 11. Critique digital content for validity, accuracy, bias, currency, and relevance. |
|
| Local/National Standards: |
|
| Primary Learning Objective(s): |
Students will research women's issues of the early 20th century (the setting of the short story "The Yellow Wallpaper"). Students will analyze the story as it relates to the author's life. Students will analyze the connections between the researched women's issues and mental illness. Students will research how various mental illnesses were treated during the early 20th century. Students will write a persuasive essay using the completed research. |
| Additional Learning Objective(s): |
|
| Approximate Duration of the Lesson: |
91 to 120 Minutes |
| Materials and Equipment: |
Copies of the short story, "The Yellow Wallpaper," by C. P. Gilman. |
| Technology Resources Needed: |
Computers with Internet access, printer |
| Background/Preparation: |
Students will need a review of the persuasive essay found in the attached documents and Internet research experience. |
| Procedures/Activities: |
1.)Using the Internet and other materials gained from the local health department, discuss mental illnesses and their effects upon society and individuals. ( Mental Health Info Source) This website gives great insight to clinical depression and other mental illnesses, as well as treatment, education, and support services. Use the A to Z disorders index on the left.
2.)Using literature text introduction to the story (if available) and teacher and student Internet research, lead a discussion of the issues surrounding women in the early 20th century. ( ALSC) American Labor Studies Center offers a lesson on women in the workforce, Progressive Era
3.)Discuss the possible link between the oppressive societal expectations for women in the early 20th century and mental illness. Discuss the standard treatment at that time for women with mental illness. ( New York State Archives) A mental health timeline, links to other material
4.)Using text and lecture, introduce Charlotte Perkins Gilman to the class and discuss her life's story and struggle with mental illness. ( NYC Women's Biography Hub) A biographical site with link to other biographical information
5.)Read together or assign the reading of "The Yellow Wallpaper." (Option: Assign the story for homework. The next day have the class listen to the radio play adaptation of the story found at the site attached to the next step.)
6.)Discuss the parts of the story that parallel with Gilman's life. Raise the question of whether or not the character suffers solely a mental disorder or if her illness is compounded by society's expectations and pressures. ( Scribbling Women) A dramatic reading of the radio play adaptation of the story is free; a login with a donation to the Public Media Foundation of Northeastern University, Boston, required for additional pages at the site.
7.)Schedule time for the students to read and gather material about mental illness and its treatment both now and in the early 20th century. Make available the websites attached to these steps.
8.)Direct students to take notes of facts they might use in a persuasive essay defending their position on mental illness and society's demands and attitudes as a contributing factor. Students may include information from both time periods. Facts should be cited correctly. ( MLA Citation Style) Examples of correctly cited sources.
|
| Attachments:**Some files will display in a new window. Others will prompt you to download. |
Argumentative.pdf
|
| Assessment Strategies: |
Standardized test for comprehension of "The Yellow Wallpaper" (usually available in textbook teacher's material)
Essay and research:
25% research
50% essay
15% spelling and grammar
10% completion before or on due date |
| Extension: |
|
| Remediation: |
|
|
|
Each area below is a direct link to general teaching strategies/classroom
accommodations
for students with identified learning and/or behavior problems such as: reading
or math performance below grade level; test or classroom assignments/quizzes at
a failing level; failure to complete assignments independently; difficulty with
short-term memory, abstract concepts, staying on task, or following directions;
poor peer interaction or temper tantrums, and other learning or behavior problems.
|
| Presentation of Material
|
Environment |
| Time Demands |
Materials |
| Attention |
Using Groups and Peers |
| Assisting the Reluctant Starter
|
Dealing with Inappropriate
Behavior |
Be sure to check the student's IEP for specific accommodations. |
| Variations Submitted by ALEX Users: |
|
