Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive House on Mango Street unit plan! In this article, we will provide you with a detailed outline of how to approach teaching this beloved novel by Sandra Cisneros. Whether you are a seasoned educator or a new teacher, this unit plan will help you engage your students in meaningful discussions, enhance their critical thinking skills, and deepen their understanding of the themes and motifs in the book.
Background Information
About the Author
Before diving into the unit plan, it is important to introduce your students to the author, Sandra Cisneros. Provide them with some background information about her life and career. Discuss how her experiences growing up in a Mexican-American neighborhood in Chicago influenced her writing.
About the Book
Next, give your students an overview of The House on Mango Street. Discuss the genre of the book (coming-of-age novel), its setting (a poor Latino neighborhood in Chicago), and the main themes it explores (identity, gender roles, and the power of language).
Pre-Reading Activities
Building Background Knowledge
Before diving into the novel, it is crucial to build your students' background knowledge. Assign research projects or group discussions on topics such as the history of Mexican-American immigration, the concept of "home," and the role of women in society.
Exploring the Title
The title of the book, The House on Mango Street, is rich with symbolism. Engage your students in a discussion about what they think the title means and its significance in relation to the themes of the novel.
During Reading Activities
Character Analysis
The House on Mango Street is filled with memorable characters. Assign your students specific characters to analyze and discuss their motivations, struggles, and growth throughout the book.
Journaling
Encourage your students to keep a journal while reading the novel. Prompt them with open-ended questions such as "How does the protagonist, Esperanza, navigate the challenges of growing up?" or "What are some of the injustices the characters face in their community?" This will help them develop their analytical and reflective writing skills.
Symbolism and Imagery
Sandra Cisneros masterfully uses symbolism and imagery in The House on Mango Street. Have your students identify and analyze instances of symbolism and imagery in the book. Discuss how these literary devices contribute to the overall themes and atmosphere of the novel.
Discussion Groups
Divide your students into small discussion groups and assign them specific chapters or themes to discuss. Encourage them to share their interpretations and engage in meaningful dialogue about the book's content.
Post-Reading Activities
Artistic Expression
Invite your students to express their understanding of the novel through various art forms, such as painting, drawing, or photography. Provide them with prompts related to the themes and characters in The House on Mango Street.
Writing Extension
Encourage your students to write their own vignettes inspired by the style of The House on Mango Street. Allow them to explore their own personal experiences, observations, or social issues they are passionate about.
Movie Adaptation
Watch the movie adaptation of The House on Mango Street with your students. Compare and contrast the film with the book, discussing the director's interpretation and the effectiveness of the visual medium in conveying the story.
Assessment
Essay Prompts
Assign essay prompts that require students to analyze the themes, characters, and literary devices in The House on Mango Street. Encourage them to provide evidence from the text to support their arguments.
Oral Presentations
Have your students prepare oral presentations on specific aspects of the novel, such as the role of language or the impact of the neighborhood on the characters' lives. This will help them develop their public speaking skills and deepen their understanding of the book.
Portfolio Evaluation
Ask your students to create portfolios showcasing their work throughout the unit. This can include their journal entries, essays, artwork, and any other creative projects they have completed. Evaluate their portfolios based on their effort, growth, and engagement with the material.
Culminating Activity
Community Project
Engage your students in a community project that addresses a social issue highlighted in The House on Mango Street, such as poverty or gender inequality. This can involve volunteering, organizing fundraisers, or raising awareness through advocacy campaigns.
Classroom Celebration
Wrap up the unit with a classroom celebration where students can showcase their artwork, read their vignettes, and present their research projects. This will provide a sense of accomplishment and allow students to reflect on their growth throughout the unit.
Conclusion
Teaching The House on Mango Street can be a transformative experience for both you and your students. By following this comprehensive unit plan, you will create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that fosters critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper appreciation for diverse voices in literature.