Lesson 7: Character in Text

It is assumed that you have already watched at least one other version of Romeo and Juliet in addition to the Lurhmann version. If this is not the case, make sure you watch another version before the next lesson.

Learning Intention: 
To use skim-reading to locate quotations related to a character
To use discussion to determine the relevance of quotations to a character study
To be more confident in expressing ideas with textual support

Key Competencies:
Participating and contributing; thinking


Success Criteria:

• I have located more than 5 quotations about a character in Romeo and Juliet
• I have discussed and developed my ideas about character around textual extracts
• I have contributed at least 5 quotations to the Romeo and Juliet Tree of Knowledge with accompanying analysis
• I understand how to use quotations to question and support my ideas about a character

--------------------------------------Starter--------------------------------------

You have been assigned a character from one of the following:

Romeo / Juliet / Tybalt / Benvolio / Friar Lawrance / Nurse

For your character, produce a mindmap (or other list) of characteristics from your personal impressions. Aim for at least 5 characteristics - more is better.

--------------------------------------Introduction--------------------------------------

• Go through the text in chronological order and find any instances of this character (a) speaking (b) being spoken about. (If you're struggling, use this site.)
• Can you find any quotations to support or contradict your ideas from the starter activity? (Hint: It would be useful if you could find both for a well-balanced essay! You may well have strong impressions from the film but make sure your ideas are based on the text, not the images you saw.)
• Make a note of the line/page reference of any particularly useful quotations that you could use to discuss character.

I will complete this task and the following tasks for Mercutio so you can see a model of how to do this if you are unsure.

--------------------------------------Main--------------------------------------

• Once you have gathered your quotes, choose at least 5 which show different sides of the character and discuss these with your partner to develop your ideas.
• Write a comment for each quotation to explain how it links to your idea about the character.

--------------------------------------Development--------------------------------------

• Choose a shape for the character from the tree, and record your quotation with your thoughts on the shape.
• Place this appropriately on the Tree of Knowledge.
• When you have finished, choose one other character and read the Tree of Knowledge to see if you agree or disagree with the ideas. Can you improve on / add to any of them (orally)?

--------------------------------------Plenary--------------------------------------

Look at the LIs, KCs and SC. On a scale of 1-5, how would you rate yourself for each of the SCs? Note any targets in your workbook so you can focus on them and refer to them in your next reflection.