Margaret Atwood's 'The Handmaid's Tale' - IBDP English A: L&L
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 English A: L&L IBDP course. 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 an exam, assessment or essay, 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 criteria 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. This resource is ideal for online learning!
The scheme of work should last between 10-12 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; how to use theorists and critics; and how to analyse language, structure and form.
Analytical 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 and focus is placed on how to write an essay about one text, as well as moving onto the comparative essay skills needed for Paper 2. This scheme of work can be used in preparation for any of the IBDP assessments. However the marking criteria used is that for Paper 2. 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 Edexcel version, please click here.
If you would like the CIE version, please click here.
Check out the freebie lesson here.