Lesson Plan: The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Susy)

The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Susy), written by Barbara Kerley

To be read with any book written by Mark Twain 

Grade Level – High School

Subject - English

Objectives and Goals (State Standard)

• ·          Students will be able to understand the characteristics of writing a good biography

• ·         Students will be aware of the life of Mark Twain

• ·         Students will practice writing biographies

Anticipatory Set:

• ·         Remind students that this book is about the author of the book they just read.

Direct Instruction:

• ·         We will have a discussion

• ·         We will have a creative writing opportunity

Guided Practice:

• ·         Discussion-

o   What makes a good biography

o   Recall a time when you read a biography that was lacking essential elements

Closure:

• ·         After we have finished the discussion, explain homework assignment.

• ·         Encourage class to think about Mark Twain’s life and how it possibly influenced his writings.

Independent Practice:

• ·         Homework-write a 3 page biography about someone you know very well.  Apply the traits discussed in the book that make a good biography.

Required Materials and Equipment:

• ·         N/A

Assessment and Follow-Up:

• ·         Invite students to share their biography in front of the class

• ·         Encourage further discussion about writing biographies

• ·         Encourage further discussion about Mark Twain