The Crucible (2021)

Lesson 1
icon/ela/white

ELA

Unit 12

10th Grade

Lesson 1 of 22

Objective


Distinguish between mood and tone in the first pages of “The Lottery.”

Independently identify and analyze symbols used in “The Lottery."

Readings and Materials


  • Short Story: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson  pp. 1 – 3

Fishtank Plus

Unlock features to optimize your prep time, plan engaging lessons, and monitor student progress.

Target Task


Multiple Choice

What is the purpose of the black box in this story?

Create a free account or sign in to view multiple choice options

Sample Response

Upgrade to Fishtank Plus to view Sample Response.

With which of the following sentences does the author most clearly convey that the villagers are anxious about the lottery?

Create a free account or sign in to view multiple choice options

Sample Response

Upgrade to Fishtank Plus to view Sample Response.

Writing Prompt

Describe how Jackson establishes tone in the opening paragraphs of the story. Use evidence to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • What tools is Jackson using in paragraphs 1–2 to set the mood? 
  • What types of things are the people talking about in paragraph 3? 
  • Identify the tone of paragraph 3.
  • Identify the symbol found in paragraphs 2–3. How do the people act around it?
  • Describe the opening scene of “The Lottery.”
  • Who seems to be in control? What reasons are given for this?
  • Read paragraphs 4–6, identifying an additional symbol and analyzing its meaning/importance.

Notes


  • After heavily focusing on symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye, this is a chance to see if students can independently identify symbols. 
  • The symbol of the black box should be accessible for students. 
  • Students should distinguish between mood and tone. The mood is ominous, but Jackson’s tone is neutral or even detached (which will eventually underscore the story’s message). 
  • For homework, assign p. 4 of "The Lottery."

Next

Finish “The Lottery” and explain how Jackson’s tone serves to underscore the horror of the events in the story.

Lesson 2
icon/arrow/right/large

Lesson Map

A7CB09C2-D12F-4F55-80DB-37298FF0A765

Request a Demo

See all of the features of Fishtank in action and begin the conversation about adoption.

Learn more about Fishtank Learning School Adoption.

Contact Information

School Information

What courses are you interested in?

ELA

Math

Are you interested in onboarding professional learning for your teachers and instructional leaders?

Yes

No

Any other information you would like to provide about your school?

We Handle Materials So You Can Focus on Students

We Handle Materials So You Can Focus on Students

We've got you covered with rigorous, relevant, and adaptable ELA lesson plans for free