Lesson Plan:

Ethan Frome Ch. 7 Cont.

SWBAT: Find evidence from the text to support Zeenas characterization
MA Standard: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text,
including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on
meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly fresh,
engaging, or beautiful. (RL.4)
Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as
well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters
uncertain. (RL.1)
Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course
of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an
objective summary of the text. (RL. 2)
Analyze how complex characters (e.g., those with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop
over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the
theme. (RL. 3)

Activity:
1. Have students volunteer for a dramatic reading of the end of Ch. 7
2. Analyzing Zeenas state of mind
a. Tell students we will be trying to answer the question today: Does Zeena care
about her marriage? (write on board)
b. In order to do so, they will need to look carefully about Whartons word choice in
this scene, particularly how she uses symbolism and irony
c. Students will choose one of the following graphic organizers to help them analyze
pages 98 101; I will explain that there is an easy, medium, and hard level and
students should challenge themselves, but take what they think they need
d. Students will work independently to fill out their respective chart and answer the
question at the bottom
e. Once they are done, we will add the notes to the smartboard and discuss

Assessment: I will collect students packets / worksheets at the end of class

Name:______________________________
11CP
Ethan Frome Ch. 7
Symbols
Heartburn: heartache/Zeenas pain

Irony

Zeenas Reaction: Zeena

(unemotional, cold) cries over the pickle
dish (emotion)

China Closet: Zeenas secret place,

where she keeps her treasures

(Broken) Pickle Dish: (broken)

marriage

Zeenas treatment of the dish: Zeena

put pickle dish somewhere secret/safe to
protect it, but it ends up breaking

Does Zeena care about her marriage?

Name:______________________________
11CP
Ethan Frome Ch. 7
Symbols

Irony
Zeenas Reaction:

Heartburn:

China Closet:

Zeenas treatment of the dish:

(Broken) Pickle Dish:

Does Zeena care about her marriage?

Name:______________________________
11CP
Ethan Frome Ch. 7
Symbols

Irony

Does Zeena care about her marriage?