High School Grade  Project 1 week

Metamorphosis Madness: Belonging in Absurdism

Lilly C
OB2
EN2
OB1
Productive Collaborator
Critical Thinker
+ 3 more
1-pager

Purpose

Students will explore the theme of belonging and analyze the impacts of modernism and absurdist literature on "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka through engaging, hands-on activities. Over the week, they will navigate collaborative discussions, focusing on building positive relationships while dissecting the text's elements, and individually contribute insights to deepen collective understanding. The learning experience will foster critical thinking, allow students to interpret Kafka's work creatively, and empower effective communication, all while integrating real-world concepts such as maintaining records and following workplace safety guidelines.

Learning goals

Students will explore how the themes of belonging and identity are portrayed in Kafka's "The Metamorphosis" through collaborative group analysis and discussion. They will investigate modernism and absurdist literary influences, using evidence from the text to support their interpretations and responses to the essential question. Learners will apply critical thinking and communication skills to present findings in creative formats, such as digital media presentations or written reflections. They will also maintain records of their analyses, adhering to organizational standards.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] OB2 - Maintain inventory records
  • [Kentucky] EN2 - Follow safety guidelines in the workplace, e.g., OSHA, CDC
  • [Kentucky] OB1 - Maintain receipts and disbursement records
Competencies
  • Productive Collaborator - Engages with others to achieve a common goal through building positive relationships, actively listening, showing empathy, and making individual contributions to a larger group.
  • Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
  • Empowered Learner - Demonstrates mastery and application of academic competencies. Develops the skills and dispositions to persist through difficulties and plan for a future of self-improvement.
  • Creative Contributer - Interprets experiences, imagines and plays with new possibilities with curiosity, and creates approaches that are novel, useful, and valued by the world around them.
  • Effective Communicator - Engages diverse audiences respectfully by exchanging ideas and information responsibly, listening actively, speaking and writing clearly, and using print and digital media appropriately.

Products

In this project, students will collaboratively create a multimedia presentation that explores the theme of belonging in "The Metamorphosis," supported by evidence of modernist and absurdist influences in the text. Additionally, students will keep a detailed inventory record of their research sources and notes to maintain an organized database throughout the project. To simulate receipt and disbursement records in a workplace, students will present and justify their information management process to the class, adhering to safety and privacy guidelines. Finally, students will engage in reflective writing that shares their personal insights and connections to the essential question, demonstrating critical and creative thinking.

Launch

Begin the week by introducing "The Metamorphosis" with a gallery walk featuring quotes and artwork influenced by modernism and absurdist literature. Provide students with sticky notes to jot down feelings and reflections on belonging as they engage with each piece. Encourage discussions in small groups, where students can share their insights and relate them to Kafka's themes, fostering a collaborative environment where all voices contribute to a deeper understanding.

Exhibition

Students will collaboratively create a multimedia presentation or digital exhibit reflecting their analysis of "The Metamorphosis" centered around the essential question of belonging. This exhibition will include interpretative artwork, modernism and absurdist literature influences, and inventory records inspired by themes from the novella. Students will showcase creative artifacts such as visual maps or digital journal entries to demonstrate their understanding, encouraging deeper engagement with visitors through discussion and reflection sessions.