Animal Farm by George Orwell

This quarter in Language Arts we are going to focus our studies around many of the topics that arise from this monumental novella. To begin the unit we will look at the persuasive techniques advertisements use in order to convince us that we need their products. Once the students have uncovered the many techniques used, they will employ them and create mock ad campaigns themselves, which is all a precursor to studying WWII propaganda posters- from both the American and the Nazi sides.

At this point we will dive into the political atmosphere of the time, taking a closer look at Orwell's political affiliations and how they shifted as his beliefs changed. We will clearly see how government types meld from one to the other quit easily if given the right atmosphere; we will also look at the role ego plays in these shifts.

As we read the book we will be connecting the political themes that are presented to Orwell's life and times, as well as to the world today. The students will give persuasive political speeches for either Snowball or Napoleon, and discuss what the outcome might have been if their candidate won. In addition, we will examine the use of propaganda and fear as a political tool, and track the uses of each as the story progresses.

This is just a brief overview of the unit that we are about to embark on- keep your minds open and your pens in hand!!!!