A lesson for A level English Language and Literature students studying The Handmaid’s Tale. Objectives: To be able to explain how Atwood builds her fictional world in Chapter 1 (AO1 and AO2) (To be able to compare the narrative techniques in Atwood’s opening to those of other dystopian novels (AO3)) The lesson explores Atwood’s world-building in Chapter 1 supported with detailed language analysis. The powerpoint includes starter, plenary, suggested answers, and two possible homework tasks. There is also the possibility to use the additional material on narrative for a second lesson comparing Atwood’s narrative approach to that of other dystopian authors.

A double (two hour) GCSE lesson, practising creative writing using a simple structure. Objective: students will practise the skills of planning and structuring a piece of timed creative writing in response to an image. Outcome: A piece of peer-assessed and corrected creative writing. Powerpoint with prompt image and prompt questions / instructions. Lesson plan which includes starter, plenary and collaborative activities. Minimal preparation: one slide to be printed in advance if possible. Prompt questions can be stuck into books for future reference and re-used. Lesson designed to take two hours; lesson plan includes suggestions for shortening / omitting activities.