Lesson Topic: _Frankenstein Intro Discussion__ cv Length of lesson: __20-30 min________ Content Standard(s):

Grade level:_____10_____

Stage 1 Desired Results

9.7.7.7 Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a selfgenerated 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. 9.4.2.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective summary of the text.

Understanding (s)/goals Students will understand: The controversy of scientific experimentation. Discovering ones own viewpoint on a controversial subject.

Essential Question(s): Should limits be placed on scientific endeavor? How does Frankenstein link to modern science?

Student objectives (outcomes): Students will be able to: Consider parallels between modern medical controversies and the experimentation in Frankenstein.

Performance Task(s):

Stage 2 Assessment Evidence Other Evidence: Participating in discussion Exit slip, writing about what side they took and why.

Stage 3 Learning Plan Learning Materials: The primary discussion question is on the SmartBoard: Should limits be

placed on scientific endeavor?

Learning Activities:

Discussion rules are written on the whiteboard

(5 min) Up front, tell students that everyone must speak at least once. Encourage students to listen and respond to their classmates. On a piece of paper, have students choose a side for the question on the SmartBoard, writing yes or no at the top of the page and explaining why. They have three minutes to write. Following that, have the students move the desks into a circle. Explain to students that we are about to read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Point out that the alternate title is The Modern Prometheus. Ask if students know who or what Prometheus was and what it might be referring to from Frankenstein and his monster. If students dont know the story, explain to them that Prometheus is a figure of Greek myth. Hes a Titan that created man from clay and stole fire from the gods to give to the human race for which he was punished. Hes sentenced to eternal torment for his transgression. Ask if there are any students who have read the book before. Limited to those who havent read it, ask what they know of the story. The known answer is that Dr. Frankenstein creates a creature that causes havoc around the town. Pull it back to the initial discussion question, stating that Dr. Frankenstein was experimenting in creating a man but his intentions backfired according to the answers that the students provided for what they knew of this story. Was it acceptable for him to be doing scientific experimentation and why? The discussion should be primarily carried by the students. If it wanes, bring up the idea of stem cell research. Point out the controversy that some stem cell research includes the creation, experimentation, and destruction of embryonic stem cells. Pro-life groups see this as equal to murder and violation of the sanctity of life. Regardless of pro-life, pro-choice, is it worth the benefits of finding cures to diseases if human embryos are being destroyed in the process? How might this connect to Frankenstein? At the end of the discussion, give students a couple minutes to write anything further on their sheet regarding if they changed their minds or not before collecting them.