The Giver Curriculum Unit

Performance Outcomes and Deliverables  Students write journals, letters, and persuasive essays; study the novel’s emphasis on precise language; participate in cooperative learning activities; and complete vocabulary exercises. They also examine themes, reenact a pivotal scene in the novel, and react to the conclusion of the novel. The final lesson includes a two-part assessment with quotation analysis and essay questions. Supplementary materials feature optional activities. Unit includes 10 Lesson Plans, 35 Handouts, 68 Pages.  Grades 6-9, middle school Literary Form American Novel 21st-Century Skills Collaboration Critical thinking Initiative and self-direction Productivity and accountability Overview Set in a futuristic utopia, The Giver points to the possible dangers of government control and the pursuit of perfect individuals and a perfect lifestyle. The novel tells of a journey into a society that has overcome social ills including hunger, crime, divorce, and racism. The social ills, however, are addressed by an inhumane system of punishment, and limited freedom. Jonas, the main character, serves in the capacity of bearing the memories of past generations. After he has received the memories, full of emotion and color, Jonas is unable to return to the emotionless society. The novel promotes freedom of thought and action.