Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will have a deeper understanding of "Alice in Wonderland" through the exploration of its themes, characters, and historical context, while also engaging in creative expression through art and math-related activities.
Materials and Prep
- Notebook and pen for writing and drawing
- Access to "Alice in Wonderland" text (can be digital or print)
- Art supplies: colored pencils, markers, or crayons
- Basic math tools: ruler, compass, and graph paper
- Knowledge of Victorian England (brief overview)
Activities
-
Character Analysis:
The student will choose one character from "Alice in Wonderland" and create a character profile that includes their traits, motivations, and any quotes that define them. This will help in understanding character development and narrative structure.
-
Artistic Interpretation:
The student will create an artistic representation of a scene from the book using their art supplies. They can choose to illustrate a favorite moment or invent a new scene inspired by the book, allowing for creative exploration.
-
Math in Wonderland:
Using graph paper, the student will create a geometric design inspired by the Mad Hatter's tea party. They will incorporate shapes and angles to form a whimsical table setting, integrating math concepts into their artwork.
-
Historical Context Discussion:
The student will research the Victorian era and discuss how the social norms and values of that time influenced Lewis Carroll's writing. This will enhance their understanding of the historical backdrop of the story.
Talking Points
- "Let's think about how Alice's character evolves throughout the story. How does she change from the beginning to the end?"
- "When you create your artwork, consider how colors and shapes can express emotions or themes. What do you want your audience to feel?"
- "In math, we often see patterns and symmetry. How can you use these concepts to design your tea party?"
- "The Victorian era was a time of strict social rules. How do you think these rules impacted the way Carroll wrote about Wonderland?"
- "Consider the various symbols in 'Alice in Wonderland.' What do you think the rabbit hole represents in terms of personal growth or discovery?"