One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

Lesson 12
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ELA

Unit 3

11th Grade

Lesson 12 of 37

Objective


Explain how Bromden’s dream reveals theme.  

Readings and Materials


  • Book: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey  pp. 85 – 90

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Target Task


Write a 1-2 paragraph response in which you explain how Bromden’s dream builds the theme of truth or the theme of control. Use evidence from today’s reading to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • Based on your knowledge of the first chapter, what is out of the ordinary on this night for Bromden?
  • What is the intended effect of Bromden’s use of the word “captive” on p. 85?
  • Why do they make Bromden take the red pill?
  • What does the behavior of the staff reveal?
  • What is the tone of the black boy on p. 86?
  • What is literally happening based in the paragraph starting with “twisted…” on p. 86?
  • Track details from p. 86-87 that reveal mood.
  • P. 87 is a bit confusing, what is Bromden “seeing?” 
  • What does the worker bring into the room?
  • What is Bromden “Seeing” happen to Blastic on p. 88?
  • Do you think there is actual “rust” and “ashes?” What might these represent?
  • How does Bromden describe the “Public Relation” he sees on p. 89? What does this reveal about him?
  • What does he have dangling from his waist? What might this symbolize?
  • What does the Public Relation take from the Vegetable hanging?
  • What has literally happened to Blastic on p. 90?

Notes


  • Today’s reading is unusual and students might benefit from reading it aloud together prior to completing the writing on their own.  
  • Assign p. 91-95 as Homework, asking students to track how McMurphy is different. 
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Lesson 11

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Lesson 13

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