17th Century Authors Lesson Plans

Students study Galileo and his scientific discoveries. They complete a series of experiments/model constructions, using 17th century equipment and procedures, to "recreate," demonstrate and explore the various discoveries of Galileo.

Students study the history and culture of 17th century Japan by examining samurai. They review the format of haiku poetry and examine renga poetry. They examine Kamishibai, the Japanese storytelling form and apply it five facts they discover.

Examine popular language and slang and how they have changed over the course of American history. Conduct Internet research, use an online interactive Colonial House website to translate 17th century language into 21st century language, and write 17th century text.

Students read a text about women in Korean and their role in Korean literature. In this Korean literature activity, students read a text by Helen Koh to learn about women writers in Korea.

Students read excerpts from Jim Toner's memoir "Serendib" which chronicles his experiences as a Peace Corps volunteer in Sri Lanka. They work in small groups to analyze the excerpts and discuss how the author came to terms with Sri Lankan customs.

Students examine life in the early 17th century by viewing a film called "Lorna Donne". They identify the politcal scene at the time while noting the major characters. They practice using new vocabulary as well.

Students view Rembrandt's etching, View of Amsterdam. They compare commerce and trade of 17th-century Amsterdam to modern day. They create self-portraits of themselves as children with birthday gifts during the 17th century.

Students develop a greater understanding and appreciation for their families. They increase personal self-esteem and pride as a result of studying about families through literature. They assess the importance of family values and traditions.

Students examine how artists use specific mediums to communicate ideas. In this art as a form of communication lesson plan, students compare at contemporary video installation and a 17th Century Flemish painting. They compare and contrast the art forms. They plan and execute a new media work.

Eleventh graders participate in a lecture on the history of Latin Americans and the role of Latin-American women writers. As a class, they read a story together and identify what lessons the narrator gained throughout the story. In groups, they examine the author's life and compare it to their own. To end the lesson, they use the internet to research various aspects of Latino culture.