In this lesson, students will work with Lord of the Flies Chapter 11, a pivotal chapter in the novel that underscores the themes of power, loss of innocence, and human nature. This chapter sets the stage for a climactic event involving Piggy, one of the key characters. Students will engage in a timeline activity to trace the critical details leading up to this significant moment, enhancing their understanding of narrative structure and character development. Following the timeline activity, students will answer a series of questions designed to provoke critical thinking and personal reflection on the events and decisions of the characters. This lesson aims to foster a deeper understanding of the novel’s themes and the consequences of the characters’ actions.
Learning Goals
- I will be able to identify and outline the 10 most important details leading to a pivotal event in Chapter 11 of Lord of the Flies.
- I will be able to analyze the decisions made by Piggy and Ralph and evaluate their implications within the context of the story.
- I will be able to reflect on the characters’ motivations and the themes of power and morality as depicted in this chapter.
Materials
Process
- Introduce “The March to Castle Rock Worksheet” before reading through the chapter.
- Read Lord of the Flies Chapter 11.
- As students read, they should fill in the organizer.
- Optional: Have students answer the chapter questions, or use them as discussion points.
The March to Castle Rock Worksheet
Chapter 11 Questions
- Assembly Decision: What did Piggy and Ralph decide to do at the assembly? Discuss the context and motivations behind their decision.
- Decision Justification: Do you think that they made the right decision? Support your answer with examples from the text and your understanding of their situation.
- Piggy’s Glasses: What do you think about Piggy’s decision to get his glasses? Explore the significance of this decision in the broader context of survival and power dynamics on the island.
- Jack’s Reaction: Why did being called a thief enrage Jack? Analyze his reaction in the context of his leadership style and the values he represents.
- Quote Analysis: Explain the quote: “Roger edged past the chief, only just avoiding pushing him with his shoulder. The yelling ceased, and Samneric lay looking up in quiet terror. Roger advanced upon them as one wielding a nameless authority.” Discuss the implications of Roger’s actions and frame it in context of the psychoanalytic lens.
