11th Grade  Project 9 weeks

Gatsby's Literary Quest: Words & Wonder

Robbie S
L.11-12.1
L.11-12.2
L.11-12.3
C.11-12.1
C.11-12.2
+ 5 more
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Purpose

This unit aims to immerse students in a comprehensive exploration of "The Great Gatsby" by using project-based experiences to connect literary analysis with real-world contexts. Students will engage in hands-on activities that deepen their understanding of literary elements while simultaneously developing essential academic skills needed for college and career success. By examining the novel's themes, such as the American Dream, through various lenses—including historical context and contemporary parallels—students will hone their critical thinking and analytical writing abilities. The unit will also foster socio-emotional growth, encouraging students to reflect on personal experiences and connect them to the novel's exploration of identity, ambition, and societal constructs. Through a blend of collaborative and individual tasks, students will not only analyze complex texts but also articulate their insights confidently, culminating in creative projects and reflections that showcase their learning journey.

Learning goals

Students will explore complex themes and character development within "The Great Gatsby," connecting the narrative to real-world contexts and their own experiences. They will enhance their ability to analyze and interpret literary elements such as symbolism, setting, and author's purpose, while considering the broader question: Is the American Dream a promise or an illusion? Through vocabulary development, discussions, and project-based activities, students will refine their analytical skills and SAT-aligned academic vocabulary, with a focus on effective communication and evidence-based writing. The unit aims to cultivate reflective, empathetic thinkers who can articulate their ideas and engage in meaningful dialogue around both the text and contemporary issues.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] L.11-12.1 - In both written and oral expression: Resolve issues of complex or contested usage, consulting references as needed.; Demonstrate the understanding that usage is a matter of convention, can change over time and may be contested.
  • [Kentucky] L.11-12.2 - When writing: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation and spelling when writing.
  • [Kentucky] L.11-12.3 - Apply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts, to make effective choices for meaning or style and to comprehend more fully when reading or listening.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.1 - Compose arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.2 - Compose informative/explanatory texts to examine and/or convey complex ideas, concepts and information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization and analysis of content.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.3 - Use narratives strategically in other modes of writing utilizing effective technique, well-chosen details and well-structured sequences for an intended purpose, including but not limited to introducing an issue and/or supporting a claim.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.4 - Use digital resources to create, publish and update individual or shared products, taking advantage of technology's capacity to link to other information and to display information flexibly and dynamically. Use a variety of formats to cite sources.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.5 - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
  • [Kentucky] L.11-12.4 - Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 11-12 reading and content, choosing flexibility from an array of strategies
  • [Kentucky] L.11-12.5 - Demonstrate understanding of, figurative language, word relationships and nuances in word meanings.

Products

Throughout this learning experience, students will create diverse products that demonstrate their analytical and creative skills, including character analyses through digital storytelling and symbolic art pieces reflecting themes from The Great Gatsby. They will craft comparative essays linking literary themes to contemporary issues or historical texts, showcasing their critical thinking and argumentative abilities. Collaborative multimedia presentations will allow students to synthesize their interpretations and personal insights into the novel. Creative re-imaginings of key scenes through dramatic performances or visual displays will offer students an outlet for expression and comprehension. Finally, students will engage in reflective portfolios that chronicle their academic and socio-emotional growth throughout the unit.

Launch

Kick off the unit with an immersive, interactive gallery walk where students encounter a series of stations presenting the historical and cultural contexts of The Great Gatsby. These stations could include artifacts, news clippings, music, and visuals from the Roaring Twenties. As students navigate each station, they participate in small-group discussions and jot down reflections, connecting the era’s aspirations and social dynamics to the essential question on the American Dream. Conclude with a whole-class debrief to synthesize initial insights and build anticipation for the themes and characters they will explore in the novel.

Exhibition

Students will present their culminating projects in a "Gatsby Gala," an event that showcases their creative or multimodal projects inspired by The Great Gatsby. This exhibition will allow students to display their visual, digital, or written works, such as storyboards, podcasts, or digital essays, which synthesize literary analysis with personal insight. Attendees, including peers, faculty, and family members, can engage with student presentations, participate in discussions about the novel's themes, and explore the comparative connections students have made between the primary text and supplemental readings. This celebration of learning will emphasize students' analytical growth, creativity, and ability to connect literature to modern contexts.