Subject

Grade Level

Period(s)

Date(s)

American Lit

11

2&3

1/16/2015

Daily Learning Targets

(Objectives)

CCSS

Materials Needed

Procedures

SWBAT: Debate which cover is better suited and why.

SWBAT: Create a new book cover which incorporates themes and symbols from
the novel.

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.5
Analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of the structure an author uses in his or her
exposition or argument, including whether the structure makes points clear, convincing,
and engaging.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.11-12.4
Present information, findings, and supporting evidence, conveying a clear and distinct
perspective, such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning, alternative or opposing
perspectives are addressed, and the organization, development, substance, and style are
appropriate to purpose, audience, and a range of formal and informal tasks.
Copies of the article Judging Gatsby by its Cover
Copies of book cover project handout
Paper
Markers

Opener (5 min)
o The major themes of The Great Gatsby are alienation, friendship, identity,
and the American Dream. Discuss one of the themes and how it is
emphasized in the last two chapters (8 & 9). Is this theme still relevant
with readers today? Why or why not?
Hand out the article Judging Gatsby by its Cover. (2 min)
Give students time to read. (10 min)
Discuss the debate that is reported on in the article (old [blue] vs movie cover).
(10 min)
Go over the Book Cover project (5 min)
o Pass out handout
o Students allowed to work with a partner
o Provide large sheets of paper, cut in half and markers
o Students will have Tuesday to work in class but thats it
o Should include 2-3 symbols and have an accompanying 200 word essay
explaining choices. (Further instructions found on handout)
o Students have remaining time to find a partner, brainstorm, and work)
(~35 min)
HW: Read Ch. 9 (last chapter)

Reinforcement
(Independent Practice)

Creating a new book cover

Assessments

No formal assessment
Incorporates 2-3 themes and/or symbols to book cover
200 word essay

Adaptations/Extension
s

Rationale

Reflection

Students get to read about both sides of the debate regarding the two different book
covers; the older, blue one, and the new, movie edition. Then students get to voice their
opinion on which they would most likely buy and why. As well as if they were in charge
of a store, which they would choose to sell and why.
Allowing students to create their own book covers allows them to let their creative side
out to express the themes/symbols they see prevalent in the book. They have to think
critically about the themes/symbols as well as how they would present it to an audience.