1. Novel Study - The Pearl

2. Before we read…
Starter: What would you do if you won Lotto? In 3 sentences, list your top three choices.
Today: looking at issues related to the novel.

3. Before we read…
Read the article “Winning Lotto – How it really feels”. Write the answers to the questions below in your folder.
Name the source of the information about Lotto winners.
List the different ways winners have chosen to use their winnings.
Of the options you have listed, which would you choose? Why?

4. Before we read… Focus Questions (discuss in groups of 2-3):
What are the positives and negatives of a big Lotto win? List two of each.
Rank each of the choices winners have made on a continuum – most generous to least generous. Discuss each ranking in your group.
Discuss the ‘advice’ ending the article. Is it valuable? How have past winners learnt this?

5. The Pearl – Timeline Week # In Class At Home 5 (30 May – 3 June)
Check
5 (30 May – 3 June)
Before we read… activities
Reading Log (1 period)
Reading Chapter 1 and completing questions.
6 (6 – 10 June)
Character in The Pearl.
Reading Chapter 2 and completing questions.
7 (13-17 June)
Formal writing – editing and revising your research report.
Reading Chapter 3 and completing questions.
8 (20-24 June)
Symbolism in The Pearl.
Practice Essay #1
Reading Chapter 4 and completing questions.
9 (27 June – 1 July)
Narrative Structure in The Pearl.
Reading Log #4 (Due 30 June)
Reading Chapter 5 and completing questions.
10 (4 – 8 July)
Theme in The Pearl.
Practice Essay #2
Reading Chapter 6 and completing questions.
11 (11 – 15 July)
Review of The Pearl.
Practice Essay #3
Reading Response #5 (Due Week 1, Term 3)

6. Starter Name the language features: “a pale wash of light” (p.17)
“corn-cakes” (p.19)
Vocabulary (copy this definition):
Avarice – greed, desire for wealth or material possessions.

7. Review of yesterday’s class
The idea of sudden wealth, and the positive and negative aspects of it, is a significant theme in The Pearl.
By investigating the idea of a big Lotto win, we are forming our own opinions and attitudes to sudden wealth.

8. Before we read…
Activity: construct a personal diary, imagining that you have won $1 million in Lotto. Your diary should:
Include 5 entries (1 paragraph each), describing your thoughts, feelings and actions.
Include 2 entries before your win, and 3 after. These do not have to be five consecutive days.

9. Starter:
Parable – a folk tale or legend with a strong moral message. Often uses simple characters and symbolism.
If the Pearl is a parable (see p15), what do you think it’s message will be?

10. Achievement Standard AS90849
“Show understanding of specified aspect(s) of studied written texts, using supporting evidence.”
Understanding – Achieved level.
Convincing understanding – Merit level.
Perceptive understanding – Excellence level.
2 Credits – 200 word essay (externally examined)

11. Sample Question
Describe a positive or negative experience that happened to a character or individual in the text. Explain how the writer used the experience to help you understand that character or individual.

12. What do we need to know?
Positive or negative experiences – important events in the novel.
Characters – what they do, what they say, or what others say about them.
Quotes or examples - supporting evidence.

13. The Elements of a Text Narrative Setting Language Novel Study Symbol
Character
Theme

14. Use of Wikispaces
Do you use the internet regularly for schoolwork, at home or elsewhere?
Would you find it useful to have access to notes on The Pearl available online?
Should we use the wiki page?

15. Elements of The Pearl
In studying The Pearl, we will focus on character, symbol, theme and narrative.

16. Characterisation in The Pearl
Starter: List three characters in the novel, and list 2-3 words you would associate with each.
We are learning to: explain how characters are developed in the novel.

17. Characterisation in The Pearl
Activity: Gender is a stereotype in our society. We have certain ideas about what a man/woman should be.
What are some stereotypical qualities of a ‘man’? Work with your neighbour to list 10. Underline any that you think apply to Kino. (eg. Bravery, not showing emotion)
Juana is representative of women (femininity) in the novel. What are the stereotypical qualities of a woman? List 10, and underline those that apply to Juana.

18. Characterisation in The Pearl
Characters in The Pearl are simple, and they are symbolic.
Each character represents a theme in the novel, or a group of people in society.
For example, Kino is a man, and he represents masculinity in the novel.
(Masculinity = characteristics associated with being male)

19. Homework
Tonight: Chapter One Reading and Questions. We will mark these at the beginning of the period.
For next Tuesday: Chapter Two Reading and Questions.

20. Characterisation in The Pearl
Activity: Kino and Juana symbolise another main theme in the novel. What is it? Discuss with your neighbour, and agree on an idea. (Hint: think also of the doctor, and what he might symbolise).

21. Characterisation in The Pearl
Starter (Picture Dictation): Follow the instructions below to draw the mystery picture.
Draw a long oval shape, approx 5 cm long.
At one end of the oval, draw thin crescent shapes 2cm long, curving towards each other, one on either side of the oval.
At the other end of the oval, draw a long crescent shape, 3cm long, curving in either direction.
On each side of the oval, draw 3 little legs.

22. Characterisation in The Pearl
We are given information about characters in a text in three ways:
What they do.
What they say.
What others say about them.
These three combine to form the process of characterisation (character development).

23. Characterisation in The Pearl
Describe a positive or negative experience that happened to a character or individual in the text. Explain how the writer used the experience to help you understand that character or individual.
Positive or negative experiences – important events in the novel.
Characters – what they do, what they say, or what others say about them.
Quotes or examples - supporting evidence.

24. Characterisation in The Pearl
We will use the character of Juana, and the experience of the scorpion.
Brainstorm with your neighbour, things Juana, does, says, or are said about her that relate to the scorpion.
For each, describe what you learn.

25. Characterisation in The Pearl
Achieved Exemplar:
Cut out the pieces, and put them in the correct order.
Glue the pieces onto refill, leaving space to add details to the two highlighted areas.
Complete the response by adding detail where required.
Plan an essay response to the same question, using the character of Kino and the negative experience of the scorpion sting. See Mr Hanson for advice.

26. Characterisation in The Pearl
Starter: Is the finding of the pearl a positive or negative experience? Discuss this with your neighbour. Think back to our discussion of big Lotto winnings. We are learning to: craft an essay response (about the process of characterisation).

27. Characterisation in The Pearl
1. Complete the essay by using these words to fill in the gaps:
Surprising
Symbolic
Resolves
Stereotype
Resilience
Negative
Family
Understand
Complex
Experience
2. Underline and label the Point, Example, Explanation and Relevance in each paragraph. 3. Complete the sentence highlighted. Use the information in the paragraph to help. 4. What do we learn about Kino from the event of the scorpion?

28. Unpacking the Essay Introduction
Working backwards: write a plan for this completed essay.
Copy the template to the right onto half a page of refill.
For each bullet point, write one line to summarise each part of the paragraph. The first two have been done for you.
In each line of summary you write, underline the most important word (a keyword)
Introduction
Juana and the typical qualities of motherhood.
Paragraph One
Point: Juana is strong.
Example:
Explanation:
Relevance:
Paragraph Two
Point:
Conclusion

29. Characterisation in The Pearl
From the list below, choose two adjectives you could use to describe the character of the doctor, and add one of your own:
caring responsible wealthy angry generous kind selfish greedy friendly unfriendly
If characters in The Pearl are symbolic, what does the doctor symbolise? Write 2-3 sentences to explain.

30. Unpacking the Essay
Working backwards: write a plan for this completed essay.
Copy the template to the right onto half a page of refill.
For each bullet point, write one line to summarise each part of the paragraph. The first two have been done for you.
In each line of summary you write, underline the most important word (a keyword)
Introduction
Juana and the typical qualities of motherhood.
Paragraph One
Point: Juana is strong.
Example:
Explanation:
Relevance:
Paragraph Two
Point:
Conclusion

31. Character Profile
Use the Facebook template to create a character profile for the character of Kino.
You should be able to fill in all of the boxes – if you are stuck, ask a neighbour or Mr Hanson.
Include sketches of Kino and his friends (other characters in the novel).
What do we know about Kino?

32. Characterisation in The Pearl
Starter: Why is Kino unwilling to open the pearl? Discuss with your neighbour.

33. Characterisation in The Pearl
Character Log: Complete the activity on p.40, developing a record of the characters in the novel. Take a page for each character.
As we read, you should aim to record:
5 entries each for Kino and Juana.
2 entries for supporting characters.
This period: 2 entries for Kino, and 2 for Juana.

34. Characterisation in The Pearl
See your characters from another point of view. We know how Kino feels – imagine you are another fisher in another canoe – what are your thoughts when you hear Kino call, and what is your reaction?

35. The Pearl – Timeline Week # In Class At Home 5 (30 May – 3 June)
Check
5 (30 May – 3 June)
Before we read… activities
Reading Log (1 period)
Reading Chapter 1 and completing questions.
6 (6 – 10 June)
Character in The Pearl.
Reading Chapter 2 and completing questions.
7 (13-17 June)
Formal writing – editing and revising your research report.
Reading Chapter 3 and completing questions.
8 (20-24 June)
Symbolism in The Pearl.
Practice Essay #1
Reading Chapter 4 and completing questions.
9 (27 June – 1 July)
Narrative Structure in The Pearl.
Reading Log #4 (Due 30 June)
Reading Chapter 5 and completing questions.
10 (4 – 8 July)
Theme in The Pearl.
Practice Essay #2
Reading Chapter 6 and completing questions.
11 (11 – 15 July)
Review of The Pearl.
Practice Essay #3
Reading Response #5 (Due Week 1, Term 3)

36. Setting the Scene We are learning to:
Explain the narrative structure of the novel.
Analyse the use of language features in the novel.
Key Questions:
What has influenced the language of the novel?
Explain the origin of the pearl story.

37. Setting the Scene

38. Setting the Scene

39. Setting the Scene
Activity: Read “Setting the Scene” (p7) and summarise the information presented. Use this format: Heading Key point 1 (underline a key word) Key point 2 (underline a key word) Key point 3 (underline a key word) Key point 4 (underline a key word) Key point 5 (underline a key word)

40. Setting the Scene Example: Setting the Scene
Steinbeck visits La Paz in 1940.
Hears the tale of a boy and a giant pearl.
Steinbeck grew up around Mexican immigrants.
His writing (about the natural world) reflects this.
He uses a simple style of story-telling.

41. Setting the Scene Try it yourself: Folk-story Style:
The raised-up feeling of a folk story.

42. Setting the Scene Key Questions (discuss with your neighbour):
What has influenced the language of the novel?
Explain the origin of the pearl story.

43. Symbolism in The Pearl
“The pearls were accidents, and the finding of one was luck, a little pat on the back by god or the gods or both.” (p.34)
Pearls are a symbol of good fortune in many cultures. How many other good-luck symbols from around the world can you think of?

44. Symbolism in The Pearl We are learning to:
Explain how important themes in the novel are communicated.
Essay Question (you are writing this one!)
Describe at least ONE idea that you thought was important in the text.
Explain how the writer made you think the idea was important.

45. Symbolism in The Pearl Group drawing activity:
On the surface of the pearl, draw the hopes, dreams and desires projected onto it by Kino and the other characters in the novel.
Around the pearl, sketch the characters and indicate which hopes and dreams are theirs.
Underneath your image, brainstorm words to describe the pearl and the idea it symbolises.
Add your information to the pearl on the whiteboard.

46. Symbolism in The Pearl
Useful page references: p p.43 p p.46 Include one item from each page.

47. Symbolism in The Pearl
Kino projects his hopes and dreams onto the pearl. In the pearl he saw:
“Juana and Coyotito and himself…” (p.44)
“We will be married” (p.44)
“…he saw how they were dressed…” (p.44)
“Then to the lovely surface of the pearl came the little things Kino wanted…” (p.45)

48. Symbolism in The Pearl In one sense, the pearl is simply a mirror:
“it captured the light and refined it and gave it back in silver incandescence.” (p.37)
It could turn the wildest of dreams into reality; it is a symbol of hope and desire, and each character imagines a different opportunity with it.

49. Symbolism in The Pearl
The pearl also reflects the desires and greed of others:
The doctor, the priest, and the pearl buyers all want the pearl for themselves.

50. Symbolism in The Pearl
In this way, Steinbeck uses the pearl as a symbol to explore the idea of choice – when faced with unlimited wealth and opportunity, what are the choices made? What are the consequences?

51. Symbolism in The Pearl
“The essence of the pearl mixed with the essence of men and a curious dark residue was precipitated…The news stirred up something infinitely black and evil in the town; the black distillate was like a scorpion, or like hunger in the smell of food, or like loneliness when love is withheld.” (p.43)
Discuss the meaning of this passage.

52. Symbolism in The Pearl
The pearl is also symbolic of the consequences of great wealth, and inequality – the evil, greed and jealousy that can arise when one has more than others.
Kino becomes jealous and feels he must protect the pearl from those who would take it from him.
Kino is driven to kill to save the pearl, and his family.
Finally, the pearl is returned to the sea.

53. Symbolism in The Pearl
John Steinbeck inverts (reverses) the symbol of the pearl, usually signifying beauty and purity, and makes it a symbol of greed and jealousy.

54. Symbolism in The Pearl Starter:
“the poison sacs of the town began to manufacture venom, and the town swelled and puffed with the pressure of it” (p.43)
Name the language feature.
This line links to an early event in the story. Name the event, and explain the link.

55. Symbolism in The Pearl

56. Symbolism in The Pearl We are learning to:
Explain how important themes in the novel are communicated.
Essay Question (you are writing this one!)
Describe at least ONE idea that you thought was important in the text.
Explain how the writer made you think the idea was important.

57. Symbolism in The Pearl
Explain how John Steinbeck inverts the symbol of the pearl to make the ideas of evil, greed and jealousy important in the novel. Explain how John Steinbeck uses the symbol of the pearl to signify both good and evil, important ideas in the novel.

58. Symbolism in The Pearl
To get you started: First Point: Steinbeck uses the pearl as a symbol of hope. Example: Kino will send his son to school (p.46). Explanation: This is an opportunity beyond the means of any of Kino’s people. Relevance: The pearl at first represents the idea of hope.

59. Symbolism in The Pearl
Second point: Steinbeck inverts the symbol of the pearl, to symbolise evil and jealousy.
Example: “The news stirred up something infinitely black and evil in the town…” (p.43)
Explanation…

60. Symbolism in The Pearl
Third Point: Each character wants something from the Pearl, and it is these desires that bring evil to the town.
Example: with the wealth of the pearl in mind the doctor returns to the family to “cure” Coyotito .(p.?)
This shows how…

61. For each numbered space, write a word that could be used.
In the novel, John Steinbeck uses the pearl as a symbol of hope and (1) . Kino wants an education for Coyotito, to send his son to school (p.46). This is an (2) beyond the (3) of any in Kino’s village. An education is valued and (4) in the village – it is (5) with the wealthy Spanish people in the city nearby. The (6) of the pearl is how Kino will give his son a bright (7). In this way, the pearl (8) represents the idea of (9).

62. Reading Logs Reading Log #4 Due Thursday 30th June.
Only four reading responses need to be submitted to achieve the credits.
To achieve Merit or Excellence, you must submit all four at Merit or Excellence level.
You must include one extended text, and may include one visual text.

63. Symbolism in The Pearl We are learning to : Craft an essay response.
How do we go from plan to finished product?
Review the model essay on the character of Juana, to find out how the essay was created from a plan.

64. Unpacking the Essay Introduction
Copy the template to the right onto half a page of refill.
For each bullet point, write one line to summarise each part of the paragraph. The first two have been done for you.
In each line of summary you write, underline the most important word (a keyword)
Introduction
Juana and the typical qualities of motherhood.
Paragraph One
Point: Juana is strong.
Example:
Explanation:
Relevance:
Paragraph Two
Point:
Conclusion

65. Writing your first paragraph
Start with paragraph 1 – leave the introduction until the end, when you know what you have written about.
Follow the PEE(EEEEEE)R structure – include lots of explanation.
Make sure your paragraph includes an example. The strongest essays include quotes and page references.

66. Symbolism in The Pearl
Share your first paragraph with your neighbour. Does it answer the question? Give some practical advice on how to develop it.

67. Symbolism in The Pearl
We have learned to: Structure an essay response.
Convert an essay plan into a finished essay.
For homework: finish turning your plan into a first draft, to be handed in on Tuesday.
Essays completed in class are useful for:

68. Symbolism in The Pearl
For homework: finish turning your plan into a first draft, to be handed in on Wednesday.
Essays completed in class are useful for:
Study notes.
Receiving feedback to improve your writing.
If you miss the end of year exam, I can give you an aegrotat grade based on your performance in class. But only if you have submitted practice essays!

69. Narrative Structure Resolution Climax Exposition Catalyst
These parts of narrative are jumbled. Can you copy them in the correct order?
Resolution
Climax
Exposition
Catalyst
Turning Point(s)
Describe the exposition of The Pearl. What do we learn?

70. Narrative Structure
The opening sequence, where Coyotito is stung by the scorpion, and Juana takes him to the doctor, is the exposition of the novel.
We learn about our characters and the world in which they live.
We are learning to:
Explain the narrative structure of the novel.

71. Narrative Structure
Exposition – characters and settings are introduced.
Catalyst – a problem is introduced for the characters to solve. Rising level of action.
Turning Point(s) – twists in the story, that raise the level of action. There may be two or more.
Climax – Events come to a crisis point. Peak level of action.
Resolution – falling action.

72. Narrative Structure
Sketch the graph below, and label the parts of narrative:
Action
Time

73. Narrative Structure
What event is the catalyst in the novel? Why is this event important?
When Kino finds the pearl, it is both Kino’s path to a better future, and the beginning of his problems.
Without the finding of the pearl, none of the events following it would happen.

74. Narrative Structure Sample Essay Question:
Describe an event that was a turning point in the text.
Explain why the turning point was important.

75. Turning Points in The Pearl
Turning points have two main functions in a novel.
Keep the narrative moving, by bringing the characters nearer to the climax.
Add detail to the narrative and depth to the characters.
Activity: with a partner, brainstorm events in Chapters 3-5 that could be turning points. For each, explain how it brings us closer to the climax, or what we learn about our characters.

76. Turning Points in The Pearl
The doctor returns to “cure” Coyotito – we learn that the doctor…
Is motivated by money, and that the pearl is beginning to corrupt the village and it’s people with greed.
Kino takes his pearl to the buyers – this advances the narrative because…
Kino decides to travel to the big city, and events along the way bring the narrative to a climax.

77. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Starter: how do the pearl buyers try to trick Kino? Why doesn’t it work?
We are learning to:
Explain the narrative structure of the novel.

78. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
“Now there was only one pearl buyer with many hands…” (p.64)
Imagine you are the master pearl buyer, and you have heard Kino is coming with his pearl. Write your instructions to your employees of how to bargain with Kino (5 instructions). OR
Prepare a short role-play between the dealers and Kino. You need to write a short script.
The first dealer (p.69-71)
All the dealers (p.73-74)

79. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Exposition:
The scorpion stings Coyotito.
Catalyst:
Kino finds the pearl.
Turning Points:
The doctor comes to “cure” Coyotito.
Kino takes his pearl to the buyers.
People try to rob Kino in his house.
Juana tries to throw the pearl into the sea.
Kino is attacked and stabs a man.

80. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Sample Essay Question:
Describe an event that was a turning point in the text.
Explain why the turning point was important.
Activity: Choose one of the turning points you have identified (previous lesson). Write a PEER paragraph that would form part of an essay answering this question.

81. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Starter hints/useful phrases:
Point: The scene with Kino and the pearl buyers is an important turning point in the novel because…
Kino takes his pearl to the pearl buyers, where…
This shows the reader that Kino…

82. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
We Have Learnt To:
Describe the narrative structure of The Pearl.
Next Lesson:
Working with a partner to construct a complete essay.
How to structure an introduction and a conclusion.

83. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Starter: Read the introduction and complete these questions:
The text studied is:
The element of the text being analysed is:
3 key points being made about this element are:
Maycomb: the town in which the novel is set.
Segregation: separation of two groups.

84. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
What goes in an introduction?
The name of the text and the author.
The purpose of your essay (eg. An important idea)
Three key points your essay will make.
How to write a top notch introduction:
Re-write the question you are given.

85. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Describe a positive or negative experience that happened to a character or individual in the text. Explain how the writer used the experience to help you understand that character or individual.
A positive experience in the novel The Pearl was…
This helped me to understand Kino because…

86. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Describe an event that was a turning point in the text.
Explain why the turning point was important. =
An event that was a turning point in The Pearl by John Steinbeck was…
This event was important because…

87. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
What goes in a conclusion?
The name of the text.
The purpose of your essay (eg. An important idea)
Three key points your essay has made.
Don’t say anything you haven’t already said! Your conclusion should mirror your introduction.

88. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Starter: Discuss with your neighbour.
What makes Juana continue to protect Kino and the pearl, even after he has beaten her?
What does Kino mean when he says to Juan Tomas “I know, I am like a leprosy?” (p.90)
Leprosy: a contagious skin disease.

89. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
WALT: Describe the narrative structure of The Pearl.
Today
Returning pair essays.
If you haven’t completed a pair essay you should continue working on this, so I can give you feedback on it.
If you have finished your pair essay, you should work on the flow chart activity for Kino, with your partner.

90. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Activity: Work with your partner to produce a completed essay on a turning point in the novel.
Discuss how your individual paragraphs will fit together.
Decide what should go in the introduction and conclusion.
One person should write the introduction, and one the conclusion.
Use scissors and glue to construct your essay – HZ will photocopy for your group.

91. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
Extension Activity:
The narrative of The Pearl is driven by the choices characters make, particularly Kino.
Make a flow chart showing the narrative from Kino’s point of view, mapping the choices he makes at each turning point.
Consider his options at each point – how might the novel have ended differently?
Use A3 paper the (reverse of your “Pearl” image)

92. The Elements of a Text Setting Language Novel Study Symbol Character
Narrative
Setting
Language
Novel Study
Symbol
Character
Theme

93. Narrative Structure in The Pearl
We have learnt to: Explain the narrative structure of the novel.
We need to prepare one more essay topic, so you are ready for your end of year examination.
What will we study next week?
The climax and resolution of the novel.
A significant theme in the novel (choice).
A one-period practice essay (Thursday).

94. Novel Catch Up Period.
Starter: Reading The Pearl. We need to be finished the novel by next Tuesday so we can finish studying it this term.
Character Logs: you should aim to have five details/quotes each about Kino and Juana, and 2-3 about minor characters (the doctor, the priest, the pearl buyers).
Completing good and evil essays: Patrick, Cameron, Roisin, Macaela, Nick, Asha, Ella, Eryn, Sam.

95. Next Week.
Completing our notes on characters, symbols, narrative and theme.
Writing a practice essay in one period (timed).
Folder check: are your notes complete and tidy? Can you find things easily?
Watching an excerpt of the film of the novel (if we can complete our weeks learning in three periods).

96. Novel Catch Up Period. Adding detail to your character logs:
Add details about minor characters – the doctor, the priest and the pearl buyers.
Use the same format as for Kino and Juana.
Finished? Continue reading, or work on chapter questions.

97. Climax and Resolution Starter Questions:
How does The Pearl end? In your own words, summarise the last events in the novel.
Is this a satisfying ending?
How does it leave you feeling?

98. Climax and Resolution
This Week in English: Wednesday – The resolution of the novel. Thursday – In class essay response (whole period to write) on the idea of choice. Closed book – all you will need is your essay plan. Friday – review of the pearl – viewing some interesting clips.

99. Climax and Resolution WALT:
Explain how important themes are communicated in the novel.
Explain the narrative structure of the novel.

100. Climax and Resolution
The death of Coyotito is the climax of the novel – the greatest tragedy to befall the family.
In attempting to turn the potential of the pearl into real wealth by selling it, Kino and Juana have lost their son, loved and valued more than anything.
Activity: Complete “We Learn That…” for the climax on the narrative summary worksheet.

101. Climax and Resolution
John Steinbeck uses irony in this scene to create impact. For example:
The pearl, the means to get Coyotito to school, instead leads to his death.
Kino gains a rifle during the conflict (one of the possessions he dreams of) but loses his son.

102. Climax and Resolution Kino and Juana return to the village.
Why does Kino throw the pearl into the sea?
Activity: re-read pages Write a diary entry Kino would make, describing his thoughts and feelings at the end of the novel. Is there a lesson he has learned? What will he do next?

103. The Theme of Choice
At the beginning of our unit we looked at the idea of The Pearl as a parable.
Parable – a folk tale or legend with a strong moral message. Often uses simple characters and symbolism.
If The Pearl is a parable what is its message? Write an explanation in your own words.

104. The Theme of Choice
At first Kino seems to be master of his own destiny – strong, masculine, defender of his family.
The choices he makes upon finding the pearl seem generous and genuine in nature - his desires include education and marriage, rather than the material greed of the doctor and the priest.

105. The Theme of Choice
As the novel unfolds, Kino’s choices become more selfish:
Pride and desire for wealth cause him to take his pearl to the city.
He reacts (though in self-defence) and causes the death of another man.
Kino strikes to prevent the trackers from catching his family, resulting in the death of his son.

106. The Theme of Choice What is Steinbeck’s message about choice?
Is he telling us that greed and jealousy are part of human nature, and can corrupt even the strongest people?
Or is he saying that, in fighting against the world the individual (Kino) cannot win, no matter the choices he makes?
Activity: in pairs, discuss the two ideas above. Which do you agree with and why?

107. Feedback on Essay One Structure was very well utilised.
To achieve Merit/ Excellence you should include a general statement in your introduction/ conclusion, summarising your approach to the question.
For example:
“In John Steinbeck’s novel The Pearl, the character Kino is corrupted by the greed and jealousy of humanity, and cannot hope to realise his dreams for his pearl. He is a victim of human nature, cursed by fate to fail no matter the choices he makes.”

108. Feedback on Essay One Explanation+Explanation+Explanation.
I did not read one essay that explained the idea in TOO MUCH detail.
You should tell the marker everything you understand the point you are making.

109. Essay #2: The theme of choice.
Describe at least ONE idea that you thought was important in the text.
Explain how the writer made you think the idea was important.
Spend the rest of this period constructing a plan for this essay. We will write it in class tomorrow.
Use your plan for your good/evil essay as a guide, and refer to your notes for quotes and examples.

110. Essay #2: The theme of choice.
Introduction
Paragraph 1: Point one about choice.
Example
Explanation + Explanation +Explanation
Relevance
Paragraph 2: Point two about choice.
Paragraph 3: Point three about choice.
Conclusion

111. Essay #2: The theme of choice.
As you write:
Remember to follow the PEER structure.
Include as many specific details as you can.
Explain your ideas thoroughly.
The marker wants to read how much you know about the ideas in the novel.
You have 40 minutes to complete your essay.

112. Review of The Pearl
Starter: Complete the feedback questionnaire and return to Mr Hanson. We have learnt to:
Explain the use of symbolism in the novel.
Explain how important themes are communicated in the novel.
Explain how characters are developed in the novel.
Explain the narrative structure of the novel.
Analyse the use of language features in the novel.
Construct an essay response.

113. Review of The Pearl How could the novel have ended differently?
How would this have changed the message of this “parable”?
Activity: In pairs or groups develop an alternate climax and resolution. Describe the new message of your parable. One person in your group needs to record this on paper, to be handed in.

114. Review of The Pearl
The Pearl: alternate ending in Lego?

115. Review of The Pearl
What might a film adaptation of The Pearl look like?
Activity:
In pairs, cast the main characters with contemporary actors/ actresses.
Choose a genre for the film: drama, comedy, sci-fi?
Write a tag-line for the film. For example, the tagline for HP and the Philosopher’s Stone was “Let the magic begin”.

116. Review of The Pearl
The Pearl (2001). Terrible, by all accounts.