Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to analyze the plot and conflict in the book "The Rat Catcher's Daughter" and demonstrate understanding through written responses.
Materials and Prep
- Copy of the book "The Rat Catcher's Daughter"
- Pen or pencil
- Notebook or loose-leaf paper
Prior to the lesson, the student should have read "The Rat Catcher's Daughter" and be familiar with the characters and main events in the story.
Activities
- Plot Summary: Ask the student to write a brief summary of the plot of "The Rat Catcher's Daughter" in their own words. Encourage them to include the main events and key turning points in the story.
- Conflict Analysis: Have the student identify and analyze the main conflict(s) in the book. They should consider the internal and external conflicts faced by the protagonist and how they impact the story's progression.
- Character Development: Instruct the student to choose one character from the book and write a character analysis. They should describe the character's traits, motivations, and how they contribute to the overall plot.
- Resolution Reflection: Ask the student to reflect on the resolution of the conflict in the story. Have them write about whether they found it satisfying or if they would have preferred a different outcome. Encourage them to provide reasons for their opinion.
Australia: Year 7 Talking Points
- "The Rat Catcher's Daughter" is set in a fictional town in Australia during the 19th century.
- The book explores themes of social class and the struggles faced by the working class during this time period.
- The protagonist, the rat catcher's daughter, is a young girl who becomes involved in a mystery that uncovers secrets about her own family.
- The conflict in the story arises from the tension between different social classes and the protagonist's determination to uncover the truth.
- The resolution of the conflict brings about a sense of justice and closure for the characters.