A Christmas Carol - Cover Work - The Second Spirit

GCSE English Literature Cover Lesson – A Christmas Carol (The Ghost of Christmas Present)
Overview:
This fully self-contained cover lesson focuses on the Ghost of Christmas Present episode in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Designed for Year 10 students, it requires no prior knowledge of the text and is ideal for non-specialist teachers. The resource ensures meaningful learning even in the teacher’s absence.

What’s Included

Student Worksheet:
Clear summary of the Ghost of Christmas Present scene, key vocabulary, and structured comprehension and analysis questions.
Teacher Lesson Plan:
Detailed timings, sentence starters, adaptive activities, and guidance for non-specialists.

Key Features

Fully Self-Contained:
Includes summary, glossary, and questions aligned to GCSE objectives.
Non-Specialist Friendly:
Step-by-step plan with support notes and adaptive strategies.
Minimal Preparation:
Ready-to-print materials for short-notice cover.
Differentiated and Inclusive:
Visual, oral, and literacy-based tasks for diverse learners.
Curriculum-Aligned:
Supports GCSE skills such as character motivation, social responsibility, symbolism, and transformation.

Lesson Structure

Starter (10 mins):
Read the Key Information section and answer recap questions about the Ghost’s appearance and purpose.
Main Activity (30 mins):
Answer four structured questions:

Identify: Key places the Ghost takes Scrooge.
Explain: How the Cratchit family challenges Scrooge’s beliefs.
Analyse: The symbolism of Ignorance and Want.
Discuss: How this chapter contributes to Scrooge’s transformation.
Includes sentence starters and challenge tasks (e.g., find quotes, explore Dickens’ message).

Adaptive Options:

Visual: Create a storyboard of the Ghost’s journey.
Oral: Role-play Scrooge’s conversation with the Ghost.
Literacy Support: Match key words to definitions and use them in sentences.

Plenary (10 mins):
Reflect in writing: “Why does Dickens include Ignorance and Want? What message is he sending?” Sentence frames provided.
Extension:
Write a diary entry from Scrooge’s perspective after meeting the Ghost.

Why This Resource Works

Engaging and accessible for all learners
Supports key GCSE skills in analysis and evaluation
Empowers cover teachers to deliver confidently
Promotes independent thinking and discussion
CoPilot supported Design