Subject: English
Grade Level: 10
Objective: Analyze the themes, morals, and symbolic elements of Aesop's
fables. Create and present a modern fable, incorporating characters, conflicts,
and a moral of their own. Appreciate the relevance of traditional fables in
reflecting universal human values.
I. Before the Lesson / Pre-lesson Proper
Activating Prior Knowledge:
[Teaching Strategy:] Cooperative Learning
[Instructional Materials:] Aesop's fables handout, K-W-L chart
Engaging Activity 1 - Storytelling session where students share their favorite fables.
Engaging Activity 2 - Brainstorming session on morals and themes found in fables.
Engaging Activity 3 - Picture Analysis of illustrations from various fables, discussing
the symbolism present.
Establishing Lesson Purpose / Intention:
Today, we will explore the timeless wisdom in Aesop's fables, understanding how
they reflect universal human values through their themes and morals. By analyzing
these stories, you will gain insight into how to create a modern fable that resonates
with today's society.
Lesson Language Practice/Unlocking of Difficulties:
Key Terms: fable, moral, symbolism, character, conflict
Key Concepts:
Concept 1 - The moral of a fable conveys a lesson about human behavior.
Concept 2 - Symbolism in fables can represent larger ideas about society and
human nature.
II. During the Lesson Proper
Reading the Key Idea / Stem:
Aesop's fables convey important life lessons through simple narratives, using
characters and symbolism to illustrate universal truths.
Developing Understanding of the Key Idea / Stem:
Activity 1: "Fable Analysis"
[Teaching Strategy:] Guided Reading
Materials - Copies of selected Aesop's fables, graphic organizers
Significance - Analyzing the structure and elements of fables deepens understanding
of their themes and morals.
Instructions -
1) Read selected Aesop's fables in groups.
2) Use a graphic organizer to identify the themes, morals, and symbolic elements.
3) Share findings with the class.
Rubric
- Clarity of analysis - 10 pts.
- Depth of understanding - 5 pts.
- Group collaboration - 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1) What is the main theme of the fable you analyzed?
2) How does the symbolism enhance the moral of the fable?
3) Can you relate the moral to a real-life situation?
Activity 2: "Modern Fable Creation"
[Teaching Strategy:] Project-Based Learning
Materials - Writing materials, presentation tools (poster board, markers)
Significance - Creating a modern fable allows students to apply their understanding
creatively.
Instructions -
1) Individually, write a modern fable that includes original characters and conflicts.
2) Identify the moral of your fable.
3) Present your fable to the class.
Rubric
- Creativity of story - 10 pts.
- Clarity of moral - 5 pts.
- Presentation skills - 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1) What inspired the characters in your fable?
2) How does your fable reflect a contemporary issue?
3) What moral do you hope the audience learns from your fable?
Inclusive Activity 3: "Symbolic Role-Playing"
[Teaching Strategy:] Experiential Learning
Materials - None
Significance - Role-playing characters from fables enhances understanding of their
traits and moral lessons.
Instructions -
1) In pairs, choose a character from an Aesop's fable.
2) Act out a scene that highlights the character's traits and the moral lesson.
3) Discuss how the character's actions convey the fable's message.
Rubric
- Engagement in role-play - 10 pts.
- Understanding of character and moral - 5 pts.
- Participation in discussion - 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1) What character traits did you portray?
2) How did your character's actions reflect the moral of the fable?
3) Why is this moral relevant today?
Deepening Understanding of the Key Idea/Stem:
Activity: "Symbolism in Fables"
[Teaching Strategy:] Inquiry-Based Learning
Materials - Chart paper, markers
Significance - Exploring deeper symbolism in fables fosters critical thinking.
Instructions -
1) Choose a fable and identify three symbolic elements within it.
2) Discuss how these symbols contribute to the story's overall message.
3) Create a visual representation of your findings on chart paper.
Rubric
- Insightfulness of analysis - 10 pts.
- Creativity in representation - 5 pts.
- Clarity in presentation - 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1) What symbols did you identify, and what do they represent?
2) How do these symbols enhance the moral of the fable?
3) Why is it important to understand symbolism in literature?
III. After the Lesson / Post-lesson Proper
Making Generalizations / Abstractions:
In summary, Aesop's fables serve as powerful tools for conveying morals and
themes through simple narratives and rich symbolism. By creating our own modern
fables, we not only appreciate the relevance of traditional stories but also reflect on
contemporary values and lessons. Understanding these elements helps us connect
literature with our lives and society.
Supporting Material 1 - "Aesop's Fables" by Aesop: A collection of original tales
that illustrate morals and themes.
Supporting Material 2 - "The Modern Fable: A New Collection" by Various Authors
Assessment - Evaluating Learning:
[Teaching Strategy:] Think-Pair-Share
[Instructional Materials:] Reflection worksheets for self-assessment
Question 1 - What is the significance of the moral in your modern fable?
Question 2 - How does your fable relate to a personal experience?
Question 3 - In what ways do you think fables can influence behavior?
H.O.T.S.:
Question 1 - Why do you think fables have persisted throughout history?
Answer 1 - Fables endure because they address timeless human experiences and
moral dilemmas, making them relatable across generations.
Question 2 - How might the morals in Aesop's fables apply to modern social issues?
Answer 2 - The morals often reflect fundamental truths about human nature, which
can be applied to current issues like honesty and integrity in society.
Question 3 - What changes would you make to a particular fable to make it more
relevant today?
Answer 3 - I would update the characters and settings to reflect contemporary
society, ensuring the moral remains impactful while resonating with today's
audience.
Additional Activities for Application / Remediation:
Assignment 1 - "Fable Reflection Journal"
Guiding Overview for Teacher: Students will keep a journal reflecting on different
fables they read, noting themes and morals that resonate with them.
Assessment Question - How did the moral of the fable you read influence your
perspective on a personal situation?
Assignment 2 - "Create a Fable Podcast"
Guiding Overview for Teacher: Students will script and record a podcast episode
discussing their modern fables and the morals behind them.
Assessment Question - What insights did you gain while preparing your podcast
about the moral of your fable?
END OF REFERENCES
