Subject: The last leaf

Grade Level: Grade 10

Objective: Identify the Elements of the short story The Last Leaf by O. Henry,
Appreciate the moral of the story by listening and viewing the story, and
Perform tasks through small group differentiated activities.

Learning within and across curriculum:

- Within:

1) English Literature: Analyzing themes and characters in literature.

2) Art: Creating visual representations inspired by literary works.

3) Psychology: Understanding the impact of storytelling on emotions and behavior.

- Across:

1) History: Exploring the societal context of the time period in which the story is set.

2) Science: Investigating the concept of hope and resilience in human psychology.

3) Ethics: Discussing moral dilemmas and selflessness portrayed in the story.

Review Motivation:

Teaching Strategy: Role-Playing

Instructional Materials: Visual Aids

Engaging Activity 1: Storytelling

Engaging Activity 2: Brainstorming

Engaging Activity 3: Picture Analysis

Activity 1: Character Analysis

Teaching Strategy: Cooperative Learning

Materials: Copies of the short story, Character analysis worksheet

Significance: Understanding character development in literature

Instructions:

1) Read The Last Leaf as a class.

2) In small groups, analyze the main characters' traits and motivations.

3) Present findings through a group discussion.

Rubric:

- Accuracy of character analysis - 15 pts.

- Participation in group discussion - 10 pts.

- Clarity of presentation - 10 pts.

Assessment Questions:

1) Describe the personality of Sue in The Last Leaf.

2) How does Behrman's character contribute to the story's theme?

3) What motivates Johnsy's actions in the narrative?

Activity 2: Creative Visual Representation

Teaching Strategy: Project-Based Learning

Materials: Art supplies, Poster boards

Significance: Expressing understanding through art

Instructions:

1) Create a visual representation of a scene from The Last Leaf.

2) Use colors and symbols to convey the mood and themes of the story.

3) Present and explain your artwork to the class.

Rubric:

- Creativity and originality - 15 pts.

- Connection to the story's themes - 10 pts.

- Presentation and explanation - 10 pts.

Assessment Questions:

1) How did you choose the colors for your artwork, and what do they symbolize?

2) Explain the scene you depicted and its significance in the story.

3) How does your visual representation capture the essence of O. Henry's writing
style?

Inclusive Activity 3: Moral Dilemma Discussion

Teaching Strategy: Discussion

Materials: None

Significance: Encouraging critical thinking

Instructions:

1) Engage students in a group discussion on moral dilemmas presented in the story.

2) Encourage respectful sharing of opinions and perspectives.

3) Facilitate a reflection on personal values and decision-making.

Rubric:

- Active participation in discussion - 15 pts.

- Respectful listening to peers - 10 pts.

- Critical thinking and analysis - 10 pts.

Assessment Questions:

1) How did the actions of the characters in The Last Leaf reflect selflessness?

2) Discuss a moral lesson you learned from the story and how it applies to real life.

3) Can you relate the moral dilemmas in the story to current societal issues?

ANALYSIS:

Activity 1 - Students demonstrated a deep understanding of character analysis

through collaborative discussions.

Activity 2 - Artistic expressions effectively conveyed the themes and emotions of the
story.

Activity 3 - Meaningful discussions on moral dilemmas showcased critical thinking

skills.

ABSTRACTION:

The objective of identifying elements and moral lessons in The Last Leaf fosters a
deeper appreciation of literature and moral values. By engaging in creative activities
and discussions, students enhance their analytical and empathetic skills.

Supporting Material 1: "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry explores similar themes
of sacrifice and love in a different context.

Supporting Material 2: "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant provides another

perspective on the consequences of choices and values.

APPLICATION:

Teaching Strategy: Experiential Learning

Task 1: Write a modern-day adaptation of The Last Leaf set in a different cultural
context.

Task 2: Create a short film based on The Last Leaf, incorporating visual storytelling
techniques.

ASSESSMENT:

Teaching Strategy: Differentiation

Instructional Materials: Visual Aids

Question 1: How do the elements of setting and mood contribute to the overall
theme of The Last Leaf?

Question 2: Why is it important to analyze both the explicit and implicit messages in
a literary work like The Last Leaf?

Question 3: How can the moral lessons from The Last Leaf be applied to real-life
situations?

H.O.T.S.:

Question 1: Analyze the character development of Johnsy in The Last Leaf and
discuss its significance in the story.

Answer 1: Understanding Johnsy's transformation helps readers grasp the theme of

hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Question 2: Compare and contrast the themes of sacrifice in The Last Leaf and
"The Gift of the Magi".

Answer 2: By examining both stories, students can identify common themes of

selflessness and love portrayed through sacrifice.
Question 3: Evaluate the effectiveness of O. Henry's storytelling techniques in
conveying moral lessons in The Last Leaf.

Answer 3: O. Henry's use of irony and symbolism enhances the reader's

understanding of themes like friendship and sacrifice.

Assignment:

1) Reflect on a personal experience that relates to the themes of sacrifice and

friendship in The Last Leaf.

2) Write a letter to a friend discussing the moral lesson you learned from The Last
Leaf and how it impacted your perspective on life.