Plot Macbeth

Teacher's Notes: This lesson is about understanding interpretations and demonstrates the concept of 'readings'. All students need access to computers, either laptops or a Computer lab. Assign each student in the class a number from 1 to 4. The number corresponds with the plot summaries below. Each student reads a summary and answers the questions. They can pair up with another student who has been assigned the same summary to 'speed' things up. As with other online lessons, it works better if students have a 'hard copy' to follow that includes weblinks and questions. Step 3- 6 can be done as a Numbered Heads Together (Kagan Cooperative Learning Structure) in the next lesson in a regular classroom.

The Task:

1. Read the questions and then the plot summary you have been assigned.

1. Macbeth Synopsis

2. Plot overview from Spark Notes

3. Absolute Shakespeare: Macbeth Summary

4. Lamb's Tales of Shakespeare

2. Answer the following questions (HINT: you will need to look at the summary again)

Who wrote this summary?

Who was the intended reader?

Why would a reader be looking at this summary?

Describe any special ways that this plot summary is presented.

According to this plot summary what are the themes of the play?

3. Meet with a group of other students who have read different summaries. There are four.

4. Compare the themes of the play identified in each summary. What are their similarities and differences? You could use a Venn diagram or a table to record your responses. You could use one form Holt Interactive Graphic Organisers.

5. How do you account for the differences? Prepare a short presentation for the class.

6. Present your conclusions on the reasons for differences in interpretation to the class.