"On the Face of It": Lesson Plan

Crafting a lesson plan on Susan Hill's play "On the Face of It" for Class 12 students can be an enriching experience, as the play delves into themes of perception, loneliness, and the power of human connection.

Title: Exploring Themes and Characters in "On the Face of It"

Objective:

• To analyze the themes, characters, and dramatic techniques used in "On the Face of It."
• To encourage critical thinking and empathy towards individuals facing physical challenges.

Materials Needed:

• Copies of "On the Face of It" by Susan Hill
• Whiteboard and markers
• Handouts with discussion questions and activities
• Audiovisual equipment for multimedia presentations (optional)

Lesson Plan:

Introduction (15 minutes):

1. Welcome students and introduce the topic of the lesson: "On the Face of It" by Susan Hill.
2. Discuss the concept of perception and how it influences our understanding of others.
3. Share a brief overview of the playwright and the historical context in which the play was written.

Reading and Analysis (35 minutes):

1. Distribute copies of the play to the students or assign scenes for reading aloud.
2. Encourage students to pay attention to character interactions, dialogue, and stage directions.
3. After reading, facilitate a discussion on the following points:
   • Key themes explored in the play (e.g., isolation, friendship, resilience).
   • Analysis of main characters (Derry, Mr. Lamb, and the neighborhood children).
   • Dramatic techniques employed by the playwright (e.g., dialogue, setting, symbolism).
4. Encourage students to share their interpretations and insights, citing evidence from the text.

Group Activity: Character Analysis (25 minutes):

1. Divide the class into small groups.
2. Assign each group one character from the play (Derry, Mr. Lamb, or one of the neighborhood children).
3. Instruct students to create a character profile that includes:
   • Physical description (if applicable)
   • Personality traits
   • Inner conflicts and motivations
   • Relationships with other characters
4. After completing their profiles, each group presents their analysis to the class.

Role-Play and Performance (30 minutes):

1. Divide the class into pairs or small groups.
2. Assign each group a scene from the play to perform.
3. Encourage students to pay attention to character dynamics, emotions, and stage directions.
4. Allow time for rehearsal and preparation.
5. After the performances, facilitate a discussion on the portrayal of characters and the effectiveness of the dramatic presentation.

Reflective Writing: Journal Entry (20 minutes):

1. Ask students to imagine themselves in the shoes of one of the characters from the play.
2. Prompt them to write a journal entry from the perspective of that character, reflecting on their experiences, thoughts, and emotions.
3. Encourage students to delve deep into the character's psyche and provide insights into their inner world.

Closure:

1. Summarize the key themes and insights discussed during the lesson.
2. Reflect on the importance of understanding and empathy in overcoming barriers.
3. Thank the students for their participation and engagement.

Homework Assignment:

1. Assign students to write a reflective essay on one of the following topics:
   • The significance of empathy in bridging the gap between individuals with different life experiences.
   • How the play "On the Face of It" challenges stereotypes and preconceived notions about disability.
   • The role of friendship and human connection in overcoming adversity.

This lesson plan aims to foster a deep understanding of "On the Face of It" while encouraging students to think critically, empathize with diverse perspectives, and engage with dramatic literature. Feel free to adapt the activities and discussion questions to suit the specific needs and interests of your students.