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English first year students at high school general studies Norway

Ann S. Michaelsen

These are the topics we will cover:

Lesson plan:

1. Digital Identity and Community Building

2. Language Skills and Text Creation

3. Language sources and traditions

Use various sources critically, appropriately, and with accountability. Use appropriate strategies in language learning, text creation, and communication.

Uncovering the Origins of the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Tradition.
Objective: Students will learn about the little-known history of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree tradition and its connection to Ian Fleming, while developing critical thinking, research, and presentation skills.  Page here.

4. Critical Thinking and Media Literacy

Can we control the weather? “Weather made to order”.

5. Teaching about the national union of mineworkers strike and gay rights using the movie Pride.

  1. Before watching the movie research and write a short text about the following topics: The Miner strike, Margaret Thatcher, and the gay rights in the UK during the 1980s. Work in groups of two
  2. Watch the movie, if you are a student in Norway you can watch the movie here. NDLA
  3. After watching the movie using this article as a source “The Guardian.”, write about the following topics;

Competency Goals Addressed:

  1. Critical Thinking and Analysis of Texts
    Goal: “analyse, interpret and assess the content and form of different types of texts, including literary texts, films, and other aesthetic expressions.”
    • The lesson asks students to analyze and interpret the movie Pride, a literary and aesthetic work, by exploring its historical context and themes. Students evaluate how the film portrays the complexities of solidarity and prejudice within two marginalized groups.
  2. Cultural Understanding and Historical Context
    Goal: “explore and reflect on cultural expressions from different periods and parts of the world.”
    • Students research and discuss the historical events of the 1984-85 miner strike, Margaret Thatcher’s policies, and the evolution of gay rights in the UK, gaining a deeper understanding of British cultural and political history during the 1980s.
  3. Oral and Written Communication
    Goal: “express themselves in a nuanced and precise manner to convey opinions, experiences, and knowledge.”
    • Through group research and written responses to specific questions, students practice articulating their thoughts in English, both orally and in writing, using historical and cinematic evidence to support their views.
  4. Interdisciplinary Thinking and Global Perspectives
    Goal: “reflect on how encounters with diverse cultural expressions and experiences can provide insight into one’s own and others’ ways of life, values, and beliefs.”
    • The lesson emphasizes empathy and understanding by exploring how two different marginalized groups—the miners and the LGBTQ+ community—overcame prejudice to support one another. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own values and compare them with those depicted in the film.
  5. Media Literacy and Source Evaluation
    Goal: “critically assess, use, and cite different sources to develop understanding.”
    • Students are required to research topics using reliable sources like The Guardian and NDLA, promoting skills in identifying credible information and incorporating it into their work.
  6. Collaboration and Group Work
    Goal: “use strategies for collaboration, including digital resources, to solve problems and develop language skills.”
    • The group-based approach fosters collaboration and cooperative learning, encouraging students to use digital tools and resources to research and complete their assignments.
  7. Reflection on Learning and Knowledge Acquisition
    Goal: “reflect on their own learning process, and assess their development in learning English.”
    • The post-viewing reflection question, “Did you learn anything by watching this movie that you did not already know?” encourages students to consider their personal learning journey and recognize new insights.

5. Cultural and Historical Contexts

6. Creative and Analytical Writing

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