Lesson+Plan+1

Justin Walker 3-25-09 SEED 394/400 Lesson Plan #1


 * Title**: Introduction to Herman Melville and //Moby Dick//

To develop biographical knowledge of Herman Melville To become aware of the archetypes and the science of conflict in //Moby Dick//
 * Goals**: To connect Melville’s life to the fiction of //Moby Dick//

that relates to Moby Dick. The students will discover that science and nature is based on the conflict between opposites. The students will reflect on the ethical question, why seemingly rational people follow insane leaders? i.e. the crew of the //Pequod// and Captain Ahab.
 * Objectives**: The students will question the role of obsession in their own life through journaling, and how

11.LVS.1.2 Students can evaluate logical and critical thinking used in communication. 11.W.1.2 Students can write a document analyzing how a work of literature mirrors the themes and issues of its historical period.
 * Standards**: 11.W.1.1 Students can write text using comparison/ contrast organizational patterns.


 * Materials**: paper, pencil

subject matter.
 * Modifications**: Appropriate pauses for the students to ask questions and discuss any uncertainties about the


 * Technology**: Computer with power point projector

reflection on why rational people follow the obsession’s of their leaders.
 * Assessment**: Two journal assignments: the first is a personal question about obsession. The second is a

PP: Question? Have you ever been obsessed about something? If that’s too personal, then define what is obsession or the difference between obsession and compulsion? PP: My obsession is the South Dakota state gem stone the Fairburn agate. Ask if anyone wants to share. PP: Biographical notes of Herman Melville’s life. PP: Examples of conflict that exist in //Moby Dick//. PP: Examples of conflict in science, nature, and philosophy. PP: With all this talk of obsession and conflict I will ask one final question: why does the crew of the //Pequod// follow Captain Ahab on his obsessive quest to destroy the white whale? We other examples in History like Jonestown or the Halle-Bop cult. Why do rational people follow insane leaders?
 * Procedure**: PP slide: picture of Herman Melville with the title //Moby Dick//