Constructing an argument about Othello as a tragic hero
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can construct a clear argument about Othello as a tragic hero.
Key learning points
- Introductions could follow the three-part structure.
- The thesis statement should address the writer's purpose or message, in relation to the question focus.
- Topic sentences should contain evaluative adjectives and phrases to show an interpretation - not devices.
- Topic sentences should develop in a sequence to maintain focus on the argument.
Keywords
Thesis - a statement that is put forward to be proved
Purpose - the reason for which something is done
Evaluative - expressing a judgement or opinion about something
Common misconception
An essay can contain random ideas about a theme/character as long as they link to the question.
Points in an essay should be planned tightly to expand upon and demonstrate the thesis statement.
Teacher tip
Show students a plan that you created for a different essay question or create a plan for one paragraph as a class.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Shakespeare's 'Othello' for this lesson.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Depiction or discussion of serious crime
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'Othello', what does Othello have that makes him appear a tragic hero?
Q2.When do we witness Othello's hubris in the play 'Othello'?
Q3.What role does an introduction play in an essay?
Q4.What would you not expect to see in an introduction?
Q5.Which is true of an essay on 'Othello'?
Q6.What is a thesis statement?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What should an introduction include?
Q2.Starting with the first, put the parts of an introduction in chronological order.
Q3.What is the role of a topic sentence in a paragraph?
Q4.What is not part of the criteria for a topic sentence?
Q5.Which topic sentence is the most effective?
Q6.How should you structure topic sentences to maintain an argument?
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Constructing an argument about Othello as a tragic hero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Constructing an argument about Othello as a tragic hero, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the 'Othello' unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.