Contextualization

Introduction to the Theme

The theme for this project is "Connections", a vast and intriguing concept that is fundamental to the human experience. In our daily lives, we are constantly making and breaking connections - connections to people, places, ideas, and even ourselves. These connections shape who we are, how we think, and how we interact with the world around us.

In the context of English language and literature, "Connections" can be understood in multiple dimensions. Firstly, it refers to the connections we make with the text, where we delve into the author's world, their ideas, and themes, and how they resonate with our own experiences. Secondly, it encompasses the connections within the text, including the relationships between characters, events, and ideas. Lastly, it extends to the connections beyond the text, where we relate the text to its historical, cultural, and social contexts.

Relevance of the Theme

Understanding and exploring connections is not only an academic pursuit but also a key aspect of personal growth and development. It helps us make sense of the world, broadens our perspectives, and fosters empathy and understanding. In today's interconnected world, the ability to recognize and navigate these connections is more important than ever.

In the study of English, the concept of "Connections" plays a crucial role. It helps us understand why certain texts or authors have enduring relevance, how literature reflects and shapes society, and how language can be used to create powerful connections or divisions. Moreover, this theme encourages critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication - skills that are valuable in all aspects of life.

Resources

The following resources will provide a solid foundation for understanding the theme of "Connections" and its relevance in English language and literature:

1. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald - This classic novel is a rich source for exploring various connections, from the personal relationships between characters to the broader themes of the American Dream and social class.

2. Crash Course Literature: The Great Gatsby - This video series provides an engaging and insightful analysis of The Great Gatsby, focusing on key themes and concepts.

3. Context and Connection by Paul Kei Matsuda - This scholarly article offers a comprehensive discussion of the role of context and connection in language and literature.

4. Reading Literature Makes Us Smarter and Nicer - This New York Times article explores the social and cognitive benefits of reading literature, highlighting the importance of making connections with the text and its themes.

By delving into these resources, not only will you deepen your understanding of the theme but also develop essential skills such as critical thinking, research, and communication.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Exploring Connections in "The Great Gatsby"

Objective of the Project

The main objective of this project is to encourage students to critically analyze the theme of "Connections" in the novel "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Through this, they will explore the connections within the text, between the text and its historical context, and most importantly, the connections they make with the text personally.

Detailed Description of the Project

This project will involve reading and analyzing the novel "The Great Gatsby" in groups of 3 to 5 students. The groups will be responsible for carrying out a comprehensive study of the novel and presenting their findings in a unique and creative manner.

The project will be divided into four main parts:

1. Reading and Analysis: The first part will involve reading the novel and conducting a detailed analysis of the characters, themes, and plot. This analysis should focus on identifying and understanding the various connections within the text.

2. Historical Context: The second part will involve researching and understanding the historical context of the novel. This includes the Roaring Twenties, the Prohibition era, and the Jazz Age. The aim is to explore the connections between the novel and its historical setting.

3. Real-world Connections: In the third part, students will be tasked with finding real-world connections to the themes and events in the novel. This could involve exploring current news stories, literature, or personal experiences. The aim is to understand how the novel's themes and ideas are still relevant today.

4. Presentation: The final part of the project involves creating a multimedia presentation that showcases the group's findings and insights. The presentation should be engaging, informative, and creative.

Necessary Materials

• Copies of the novel "The Great Gatsby" for each group
• Access to a library and the internet for research
• Presentation software (Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, etc.)
• Art supplies for any physical elements of the presentation (if desired)

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity

1. Form Groups and Obtain Materials: Form groups of 3 to 5 students. Each group should obtain a copy of "The Great Gatsby" and access to a library and the internet for research.

2. Reading and Analysis: The groups should start by reading the novel and conducting a detailed analysis of the text. This analysis should focus on identifying and understanding the various connections within the text.

3. Research Historical Context: Once the novel has been read and analyzed, the groups should research and understand the historical context of the novel. This includes the Roaring Twenties, the Prohibition era, and the Jazz Age. The aim is to explore the connections between the novel and its historical setting.

4. Find Real-world Connections: Next, the groups should try to find real-world connections to the themes and events in the novel. This could involve exploring current news stories, literature, or personal experiences. The aim is to understand how the novel's themes and ideas are still relevant today.

5. Create Presentation: Based on their findings, each group should create a multimedia presentation that showcases their insights. The presentation should be engaging, informative, and creative.

6. Present and Discuss: Finally, each group will present their findings to the class. After each presentation, there will be a discussion where other students can ask questions or offer their own insights.

Project Deliverables

The main deliverable of this project is the group's multimedia presentation, which should showcase their understanding of the theme "Connections" in the novel "The Great Gatsby", their research on its historical context, and their ability to find real-world connections.

In addition to the presentation, each group will also submit a written report documenting their project. The report should be divided into four main sections:

1. Introduction: The introduction should provide an overview of the theme "Connections", its relevance, and the objective of the project. It should also include a brief summary of the group's main findings.

2. Development: The development section should provide a detailed discussion of the project, including the methodology used, the group's reading and analysis of the novel, their research on its historical context, and their findings on real-world connections. This section should also include a discussion of the group's creative process in developing their presentation.

3. Conclusion: The conclusion should revisit the main points of the project, including the themes explored, the connections identified, and the group's insights. It should also include a discussion of what the group has learned from the project and any recommendations for future study.

4. Bibliography: The bibliography should list all the resources used in the project, including the novel, any research materials, and any tools or software used for the presentation.

The written report should complement the group's presentation by providing a detailed account of their project journey and findings. It should be written in a clear, organized, and professional manner, adhering to the rules of academic writing.

The total duration of this project is estimated to be over 12 hours per student and it should be completed within a month. This will allow ample time for reading and analysis, research, creative development, and preparation of the presentation and report.