### Lesson Plan: Reading and Textual Analysis of Non-African Novel - *Native Son* by Richard Wright
**Class:** Senior Secondary 2
**Subject:** Literature in English
**Duration:** 90 minutes
#### Objectives:
- Introduce students to the context and plot of *Native Son* by Richard Wright.
- Analyze key themes, characters, and literary devices in the novel.
- Develop critical thinking and textual analysis skills.
- Promote understanding and appreciation of non-African literature.
#### Materials:
- Copies of *Native Son* by Richard Wright (or selected excerpts)
- Whiteboard and markers
- PowerPoint presentation on the author and historical context
- Handouts with key themes, characters, and literary devices
- Sample passage for class analysis
- Discussion questions
- Note-taking materials for students
#### Lesson Outline:
1. **Introduction (10 minutes)**
- **Greeting and Settling Down:** Welcome students and ensure they are settled.
- **Warm-up Activity:** Brief discussion on what students know about Richard Wright or the historical period of the novel. (2-3 minutes)
- **Objective Overview:** Explain the lesson objectives and activities to the students.
2. **Background and Context (15 minutes)**
- **Author Introduction:** Present Richard Wright's biography using a PowerPoint presentation, highlighting his literary contributions and historical context. (5 minutes)
- **Historical Context:** Discuss the setting of *Native Son*, emphasizing the socio-political environment of 1930s America, particularly issues of race and class. (10 minutes)
3. **Plot Summary and Key Themes (20 minutes)**
- **Plot Summary:** Provide a concise overview of the plot, detailing major events and their significance. (10 minutes)
- **Key Themes:** Use the whiteboard to list and explain key themes such as racism, fear, identity, and justice. Encourage students to take notes. (10 minutes)
4. **Character Analysis (15 minutes)**
- **Main Characters:** Discuss main characters (Bigger Thomas, Mary Dalton, Jan Erlone, etc.) and their roles in the story.
- **Character Traits:** Analyze character traits, motivations, and development throughout the novel. Use guided questions to encourage student participation.
5. **Literary Devices and Techniques (15 minutes)**
- **Discussion:** Introduce important literary devices used in *Native Son* (symbolism, imagery, foreshadowing, etc.).
- **Examples:** Provide examples from the text and analyze their effects. Encourage students to find additional examples.
6. **Textual Analysis Activity (15 minutes)**
- **Sample Passage:** Distribute a selected passage from *Native Son*.
- **Group Work:** Divide students into small groups to analyze the passage, focusing on themes, characters, and literary devices.
- **Class Discussion:** Reconvene and have each group share their findings with the class. Facilitate a discussion and provide feedback.
7. **Conclusion and Homework Assignment (10 minutes)**
- **Summary:** Recap the main points of the lesson.
- **Homework Assignment:** Assign a short essay or reflection on a specific theme or character in *Native Son*. Provide clear guidelines and expectations.
- **Q&A:** Allow time for any remaining questions or clarifications.
#### Assessment:
- Participation in class discussions and group activities.
- Written homework assignment evaluating comprehension and analytical skills.
#### Homework:
- Write a 500-word essay on the theme of fear in *Native Son* and how it shapes Bigger Thomas' actions and decisions. Use textual evidence to support your analysis.
---
**Note**: Adapt the lesson plan as needed based on classroom resources and students' reading levels.