In this unit, students direct their own study of Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead through literature circles. In their discussion groups, they prepare a portfolio of their learning. Individually, students prepare a narrative essay of the reading experience.
- Level: ENG4C/4U (Grade 12 College / University)
- Timeframe: 18 classes, including a test period
Unit Outline
- Lesson 1: Introduction to Literature Circles and The Fountainhead (1 period)
- Lesson 2: Literature Circles pp.1-694 (15 periods)
- Lesson 3:Portfolio Conferences (1 period)
- Unit Test
The unit outline [PDF] includes a summary of curriculum expectations plus a sample calendar.
Lesson Plans
Unit lesson plans [PDF] provide detailed steps to covering each of the unit topics, relating them to the corresponding expectations and teaching strategies.
Assignments
Reflective Blogging (20 marks)
Students post reading notes on their blogs, publishing at least four reflective posts and six comments on classmates’ blogs. Students evaluate their learning using the blogging self-evaluation rubric.
Literature Circle Portfolio (50 marks)
Working in assigned groups, students are responsible for the completion of a daily literature circle role. The record of individual contributions is compiled into an electronic group portfolio. Learning is assessed using self and peer evaluation, as well as the literature circle portfolio rubric.
Reading Narrative Essay (50 marks)
Using their reading notes, students develop a 500-800 word narrative of their reading experience. Learning is assessed using the reading narrative rubric.
——
Image by torontodailyphoto
