The Hunger Games / Lesson Plan

PDF

Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to analyze the government and citizenship themes present in The Hunger Games and apply them to real-world scenarios.

Materials and Prep

  • Copy of The Hunger Games book
  • Notebook and pen/pencil
  • Internet access (optional)

Activities

  1. Read chapters 1-3 of The Hunger Games.

    Take notes on any instances of government control and the role of citizens in the story.

  2. Research a real-life government system of your choice (e.g., democracy, monarchy, dictatorship) and take notes on how it functions and the rights and responsibilities of its citizens.

  3. Compare and contrast the government system in The Hunger Games with the real-life government system you researched.

    Write a short essay discussing the similarities and differences, and how the themes of government and citizenship are portrayed in both.

  4. Present your findings and essay to a family member or friend, explaining the importance of understanding government and citizenship in both fictional and real-world contexts.

Eighth Grade Talking Points

  • "In The Hunger Games, the government of Panem exercises strict control over its citizens through the annual Hunger Games event."
  • "The citizens of Panem are divided into different districts, each with its own role and level of privilege."
  • "Just like in The Hunger Games, real-life governments have different systems that determine how power is distributed and how citizens participate in decision-making."
  • "For example, in a democracy like the United States, citizens have the right to vote and participate in the political process."
  • "In contrast, in a dictatorship, power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler or small group, limiting the rights and freedoms of citizens."
  • "Understanding government and citizenship is important because it helps us make informed decisions, participate in our communities, and protect our rights."
  • "By analyzing the themes in The Hunger Games and comparing them to real-life government systems, we can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of active citizenship."