Grade Level: 11–12 / Undergraduate
Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Studies, Ethics
Materials:
- Film: The Penguin Lessons (2024)
- Excerpts from Tom Michell’s memoir The Penguin Lessons
- Articles on Argentina’s 1976 military coup and the “Dirty War”
- Film reviews and critiques
Learning Objectives
By the end of this unit, students will be able to:
- Analyze the narrative structure and character development in The Penguin Lessons.
- Evaluate the ethical implications of personal choices during political unrest.
- Understand the historical context of Argentina’s 1976 coup and its impact on society.
- Critically assess the adaptation of memoir to film, noting artistic liberties and their effects.
- Reflect on the role of non-human relationships in human emotional growth. theguardian.com
Lesson Activities
Introduction to Historical Context and Memoir
- Warm-Up Discussion: What do students know about Argentina’s political history, specifically the 1976 coup?
- Lecture/Presentation: Overview of Argentina’s political climate in the 1970s, focusing on the military coup and the “Dirty War.”
- Reading Activity: Students read selected excerpts from Tom Michell’s memoir, focusing on his experiences in Argentina and his relationship with the penguin.
- Homework: Students research and prepare brief reports on the “Dirty War,” focusing on human rights violations and the concept of the “disappeared.”
Film Viewing – Part 1
- Pre-Viewing Discussion: Discuss expectations for the film adaptation based on the memoir excerpts.
- Film Viewing: Watch the first half of The Penguin Lessons.
- Discussion: Initial reactions to the film’s portrayal of characters and setting.
- Homework: Students write a reflection on the differences observed between the memoir and the film’s first half.
Film Viewing – Part 2 and Ethical Discussion
- Film Viewing: Watch the second half of The Penguin Lessons.
- Group Discussion: Analyze Tom’s decisions throughout the film. Were his actions ethically justifiable? How did the political context influence his choices?
- Case Study Analysis: Examine the concept of civil disobedience and moral responsibility during oppressive regimes.
- Homework: Students write an essay on the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in authoritarian contexts, using Tom’s experiences as a case study. theguardian.com
Literary and Film Analysis
- Lecture: Discuss narrative techniques in memoirs versus films.
- Activity: In groups, students identify and present on specific scenes where the film diverges from the memoir. Discuss the possible reasons and effects of these changes.
- Discussion: Evaluate the effectiveness of the film in conveying the memoir’s themes.
- Homework: Students prepare a comparative analysis essay on the memoir and film adaptation.
Reflection and Assessment
- Class Discussion: Reflect on the emotional impact of the penguin-human relationship depicted in the film.
- Creative Writing Activity: Students write a personal narrative or a fictional story inspired by the themes of companionship and personal growth.
- Assessment: Students submit their comparative analysis essays and creative writing pieces.Latest news & breaking headlines
Assessment Criteria
- Participation: Active engagement in discussions and activities.
- Essays: Clarity of argument, depth of analysis, and understanding of ethical and historical contexts.
- Creative Writing: Originality, connection to themes, and emotional resonance.
Extension Activities
- Debate: Hold a class debate on the responsibilities of educators in politically unstable environments.
- Research Project: Students research and present on other instances where animals have played significant roles in human emotional healing.
- Film Critique: Students write a critical review of The Penguin Lessons, considering its historical accuracy and emotional datebook.sfchronicle.com
Additional sources
-
The Guardian (April 16, 2025)
A critical review highlighting the film’s attempt to blend a heartwarming animal story with the grim political realities of 1970s Argentina, noting tonal inconsistencies and a disjointed narrative.
Read the review -
RogerEbert.com (March 2025)
This review describes the film as a blend of Dead Poets Society with elements of political unrest, focusing on Steve Coogan’s portrayal of a teacher evolving amidst a military dictatorship.
Read the review -
Screen Rant (March 2025)
A positive take on the film, emphasizing the unusual friendship between a man and a penguin, and how simple acts of kindness can lead to profound personal change.
Read the review -
Observer (March 31, 2025)
Rex Reed praises the film for finding genuine warmth, attributing its success to Steve Coogan’s dry wit and the compelling presence of the penguin.
Read the review
Educator’s Reflection
The Penguin Lessons offers a unique opportunity to explore the interplay between personal narratives and broader historical events. While the film has been critiqued for its tonal inconsistencies, it serves as a valuable tool for discussions on ethics, personal growth, and the human capacity for compassion amidst turmoil. By engaging with both the memoir and its adaptation, students can develop a nuanced understanding of storytelling, historical context, and moral decision-making.
