Fahrenheit 451 (2021)

Lesson 1
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ELA

Unit 13

10th Grade

Lesson 1 of 21

Objective


Analyze Vonnegut’s message on censorship.

Readings and Materials


  • Letter: “I Am Very Real” by Kurt Vonnegut 

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

What is Vonnegut’s most likely purpose for writing this letter? 

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Sample Response

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Writing Prompt

1. In the context of this letter, which is more important: freedom of speech or the security and “protection” of young people against what some see as potentially harmful ideas? Cite evidence from this text, your own experience, and other literature, art, or history in your answer. 

2. What is your stance on censorship based on this letter and your outside knowledge?

Key Questions


  • What does the word “exploit” mean as it is used in paragraph 4?
  • How does the author attempt to persuade his audience?
  • In the text, Vonnegut repeats the phrase “I am very real.” What is the function or effect of this repetition on the overall piece?
  • According to Vonnegut, what lesson does the burning of books teach? 
  • What do you think Vonnegut means when he says that he is a “real person”? Why does he work so hard to establish this point?
  • According to Vonnegut, what does being American mean? Do you agree with his opinion? Why or why not?
  • Do you agree with Vonnegut when he says the burning of books is un–American? Why or why not?
  • What is the main point Vonnegut is making in this letter? Do you agree with him? Or with the decision made by the principal? Or both/neither? Explain.

Notes


Students should come out of today with an initial opinion of censorship. They will revisit these opinions after reading the novel and the writing by Locke.

Next

Explain how Bradbury uses figurative language to characterize the fireman, Montag, the fire, and Clarisse. 

Synthesize information from the chapter to infer the central conflict of the novel.

Lesson 2
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Lesson Map

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