This is a full scheme of work for the novel ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ by Margaret Atwood. This scheme of work was planned for the Edexcel International A-Level syllabus: Paper 3 (WET0). This is a very thorough and comprehensive set of lessons that introduces and teaches all of the skills required to not only perform well in the exam, but also to have an in-depth understanding of the novel. Everything required to teach this unit is included and every resource has already been created and is ready to print! 
 
The PPT scheme of work is accompanied by a student workbook which includes exam guidance; practice questions; key vocabulary; assessment objective breakdown; key extracts from the novel; a range of critical reception and theorist quotations; as well as a range of activities. The workbook comes in two formats: printable and electronic. The electronic version can be typed into directly which reduces the need to print multiple copies but also means that pupils can use the booklet for revision later on.
 
The scheme of work should last between 11-13 weeks depending on your class. The lessons follow a step-by-step structure and build up the skills needed through lots of practice and a range of different activities. The scheme of work focuses on how to understand the meaning and message of the novel; how to identify and analyse literary devices; aspects of form and genre; contextual information; and how to analyse language, structure and form. 
 
Exam tasks are deconstructed and broken down so pupils understand what they are required to do; how to plan; and how to write up a successful answer. The scheme of work works through how to teach generic essay skills with a focus on how to write an essay about one text, as well as moving onto the comparative essay skills needed for the exam. In total, there are 5 comparative essay questions included in the scheme of work. As the lessons work through questions that replicate those in the exam, in effect, pupils will work through several practice pieces once they have finished the entire unit. In addition, short analytical tasks are included throughout, so pupils are constantly working on and refining their skills. There are also several tasks which model various different skills as well as scaffolding and supporting pupils as they learn. In addition, peer assessment sheets and self-reflection sheets are also included. The lessons cover a range of activities such as pair work, group work, verbal feedback, group analysis, presentations, carousels, drama activities and various types of peer assessment. Several slides include teacher notes at the bottom in order to give extra information or direction.
 
If you would like the UK A-Level version, please click here.
If you would like the CIE version, please click here.
 
Check out the freebie lesson here.