1. “Through the Tunnel” By: Doris Lessing
Coming of Age
“Through the Tunnel”
By: Doris Lessing

2. Bell Work
Free-write for ten minutes on how this story is similar to a coming of age story in your own life.
Ex: Have you ever done something life-threatening to fit in with a group of friends?
Have you ever tried a task that took a lot of preparation and courage?

3. Class Discussion (15 minutes)
Split into pairs and discuss your free write with a partner.
Come back to the class and share ideas of how this text related to your personal lives.
As a class brainstorm how the setting and plot make this a coming of age story for Jerry.

4. Cave Picture

5. YOU TUBE This is a link to cliff diving.
This is a great representation of the cliff diving that occurred in this short story.

6. Class Activity (20)
Individually make a venn diagram. Put yourself at the top of one circle and Jerry at the top of the other.
List differences in the outside part of the circles and similarities between the two of you in the middle of the circle. This can include physical features, actions, and experiences.
Be sure to include quotes for the main character.
Be thinking about the overall theme of coming of age.
Turn in for Credit at the end of the period.

7. Model

8. Homework/Assessment
Write a 1 page single spaced narrative on a personal coming of age story. Be sure to include as many details as possible (e.g. setting, theme, dialogue, characterization of yourself). You can use “I” throughout the paper.