Students Learn About Epistolary Novels, Analyze Their Structure and Themes, and Write Their Own Using Writing Prompts and Tips.

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Lesson 1: Introduction to Epistolary Novels (55 minutes)

Objective: Students will be able to define and identify the characteristics of an epistolary novel.

Materials:

Introduction (5 minutes):

Begin by asking students if they have ever heard of an epistolary novel. If they have, ask them to define it. If they haven't, explain that an epistolary novel is a novel written in the form of letters or diary entries.

Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

Use the whiteboard to write the definition of an epistolary novel and the characteristics that make it unique (e.g. use of letters, diary entries, multiple narrators, etc.).
Hand out the examples of epistolary novels and ask students to identify the characteristics in each one.
Use the Kahoot quiz to reinforce the characteristics of an epistolary novel.

Independent Practice (25 minutes):

Ask students to choose one of the examples of epistolary novels and write a short paragraph explaining how it fits the characteristics of an epistolary novel.
As students work, circulate around the room to answer questions and provide feedback.

Closure (5 minutes):

Show the YouTube video on the history of epistolary novels and ask students to reflect on what they learned.

Lesson 2: Analyzing Epistolary Novels (55 minutes)

Objective: Students will be able to analyze the structure and themes of an epistolary novel.

Materials:

Introduction (5 minutes):

Begin by reviewing the characteristics of an epistolary novel from the previous lesson.

Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

Use the whiteboard to draw a diagram of the structure of an epistolary novel (e.g. how the letters or diary entries are organized).
Hand out the excerpts from epistolary novels and ask students to identify the themes present in each one.
Use the Mindomo mind mapping tool to create a class mind map of the themes in epistolary novels.

Independent Practice (25 minutes):

Ask students to choose one of the excerpts and write a short paragraph analyzing the themes present in it.
As students work, circulate around the room to answer questions and provide feedback.

Closure (5 minutes):

Show the YouTube video on analyzing epistolary novels and ask students to reflect on what they learned.

Lesson 3: Writing an Epistolary Novel (55 minutes)

Objective: Students will be able to write an epistolary novel using the characteristics and themes of the genre.

Materials:

Introduction (5 minutes):

Begin by reviewing the characteristics and themes of an epistolary novel from the previous lessons.

Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

Use the whiteboard to write a list of tips for writing an epistolary novel (e.g. use different voices for each character, create a believable reason for the letters or diary entries, etc.).
Hand out the writing prompts for epistolary novels and ask students to choose one to work on.
Use the whiteboard to create a class brainstorm of ideas for each prompt.

Independent Practice (25 minutes):

Ask students to begin writing their epistolary novel using the tips and brainstormed ideas.
As students work, circulate around the room to answer questions and provide feedback.

Closure (5 minutes):

Show the YouTube video on writing epistolary novels and ask students to reflect on what they learned.

Assessment:

Students will be assessed on their participation in class discussions and activities, as well as their written analysis and epistolary novel.

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