Pursuing Dreams: A Raisin in the Sun

Lesson 18
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ELA

Unit 3

7th Grade

Lesson 18 of 27

Objective


Explain the impact of word choice on mood and tone in A Raisin in the Sun.

Readings and Materials


  • Play: A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry  pp. 124 – 130

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

How does Walter’s tone change over the course of this scene, and how does Hansberry use specific words and phrases to develop these changes? Provide at least three examples from pages 124-130 that demonstrate change in tone, and words and phrases that signify these changes. 

Sample Response

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Key Questions


Close Read Questions

  • How does Hansberry’s description of Bobo in the stage directions affect the mood of the scene? What specific words and phrases are significant in developing the mood? Provide two examples from pages 125-126 and explain how they develop the mood.

  • What is Bobo’s tone in this scene? Provide two specific words and phrases that Hansberry uses to develop this tone and explain how these words support your idea.

  • What is Mama’s tone on pages 129-130? Provide two specific words and phrases that Hansberry uses to develop this tone and explain how these words support your idea.

Discussion Questions

  • We have reached the climax of the text. What is your reaction to this scene? Do you feel sorry for Walter Lee or angry with him?

Exit Ticket

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Vocabulary


Text-based

plaintive

n.

(p. 130)

sad or mournful

Academic

climax

n.

the turning point of a story when the tension and conflict become most intense, and often when a significant change occurs.

Homework


To ensure that students are prepared for the next lesson, have students complete the following reading for homework. Use guidance from the next lesson to identify any additional language or background support students may need while independently engaging with the text.

  • Play: A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry  pp. 131 – 140 — end at "…and hold on to what you got"

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Common Core Standards


  • RL.7.4 — Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of rhymes and other repetitions of sounds (e.g., alliteration) on a specific verse or stanza of a poem or section of a story or drama.

Supporting Standards

L.7.6
RL.7.1
RL.7.2
RL.7.5
RL.7.10
SL.7.1
SL.7.6
W.7.1
W.7.1.a
W.7.1.b
W.7.4
W.7.9
W.7.9.a
W.7.10
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Lesson 17

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Lesson 19

Lesson Map

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