Standard: 9-10.W.9a – Apply grades 9-10 Reading standards to literature (e.g., “Analyze how an author draws on and transforms source material in a specific work [e.g., how Shakespeare treats a theme or topic from Ovid or the Bible or how a later author draws on a play by Shakespeare]”).
Grade level: Grade 9-10
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Writing
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on helping students understand how authors draw on and transform source material in their works. It is crucial for developing critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to appreciate the depth and complexity of literature. Students should be familiar with basic literary concepts and have experience reading a variety of texts from different genres and periods.
By mastering this standard, students will be able to critically analyze literature, understanding the interplay between original texts and their adaptations, which is essential for higher-level literary studies.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that authors simply copy their source material without adding their own interpretation. This is incorrect because authors often transform themes, characters, and plots to create new meanings.
Intervention 1
Use comparative analysis activities where students examine original texts alongside their adaptations, focusing on the changes made and their significance.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that all adaptations must be faithful to the original. This is not true, as many successful adaptations make significant changes while still capturing the essence of the original work.
Intervention 2
Showcase various adaptations of a single work, discussing how each one interprets the source material differently and the impact of these choices.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of literary elements such as theme, plot, and character, as well as familiarity with major works of literature from different periods.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop advanced analytical skills, enabling them to critique and compare various texts and understand the influence of historical and cultural contexts on literature.
Instructional Activities
- Comparative essay on a Shakespearean play and its source material.
- Group discussion on modern adaptations of classical literature.
- Creative project where students create their own adaptation of a well-known story.
