June 2009
Erica Smith teaches English at Clear Lake High School, Dallas, TX
Plays/Scenes Covered
Sonnet 27
What's On for Today and Why
This lesson introduces students to Shakespeare's language by using a small complete piece-the sonnet.Exploring the concept of illumination (whereby the full meaning of the text is revealed through elucidation by another medium), students will determine the tone and underlying theme of the sonnet.
What You Need
Illumination
Copies of Sonnet 27
Documents:
Sonnet 27
Viewing Chart
What To Do
1. Have students watch a demonstration of an illumination , following along with a copy of the text.
2. As they watch, have students complete the viewing chart.
3. In groups of 3 or 4, students will analyze the sonnet and images illuminating it and discuss the choices made.
4. Have each goup present its findings to the class.
How Did It Go?
Were students able to identify images and relate them to words in the text?
Did students complete the viewing chart?
Did the meaning of the sonnet become clearer to the students through the illumination process/
If you used this lesson, we would like to hear how it went and about any adaptations you made to suit the needs of YOUR students.
