Lesson Plan: "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" by Adrienne Rich

Objective:

To analyze and interpret the themes, symbols, and literary devices used in the poem.
To understand the socio-cultural context of the poem.
To develop critical thinking and analytical skills.

Materials:

Copies of the poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers"
Whiteboard and markers
Handouts with discussion questions and analysis prompts

Lesson Structure:

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

Begin with a brief introduction to Adrienne Rich, highlighting her role in modern feminist literature.
Provide some background on the poem's publication and its context within the feminist movement.

2. Reading the Poem (10 minutes)

Distribute copies of the poem to the students.
Have the students read the poem silently first.
Then, read the poem aloud as a class, with different students taking turns to read each stanza.

3. Initial Reactions (10 minutes)

Ask students for their immediate reactions and thoughts about the poem.
Write down key words or phrases on the whiteboard that students mention.

4. Guided Analysis (20 minutes)

Discuss the main themes of the poem: gender roles, patriarchy, and artistic expression.
- Questions to ask:
  - What do the tigers symbolize?
  - How is Aunt Jennifer portrayed in the poem?
  - What is the significance of the contrast between Aunt Jennifer and the tigers?
Analyze the use of literary devices such as imagery, symbolism, and meter.
- Questions to ask:
  - How does the imagery in the poem contribute to its themes?
  - What symbols can you identify in the poem, and what do they represent?
  - How does the meter of the poem affect its tone and meaning?

5. Group Work (20 minutes)

Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a stanza to analyze in detail.
Provide handouts with prompts and questions to guide their analysis.
Have each group present their analysis to the class.

6. Class Discussion (20 minutes)

Discuss the groups’ findings and how each stanza contributes to the overall meaning of the poem.
Encourage students to think about how the poem’s themes relate to contemporary issues.
- Questions to ask:
  - How do the themes in "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" resonate with today's discussions on gender and feminism?
  - Can you draw parallels between Aunt Jennifer's situation and any modern-day scenarios?

7. Creative Activity (20 minutes)

Ask students to write a short poem or a paragraph from the perspective of Aunt Jennifer, explaining her feelings and thoughts while creating her tapestry.
Alternatively, students can create a visual representation of the poem’s themes through drawing or collage.

8. Conclusion (10 minutes)

Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson.
Highlight the importance of understanding and analyzing poetry as a means of exploring deeper societal issues.
Assign homework: Write a short essay on the role of symbolism in "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" and how it enhances the poem's message.

Assessment:

Participation in class discussions and group work.
Quality of the creative activity.
Short essay on symbolism in the poem.

Extensions:

Compare and contrast "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" with another poem by Adrienne Rich or a contemporary feminist poet.
Research and present on the historical and cultural context of the poem's publication.

This lesson plan aims to engage students with the poem both analytically and creatively, fostering a deeper understanding of its themes and literary significance