Signs of the Time Project [how time periods affect literature - coincides with choice novel studies]. Author: Intel Education.

This unit plan teaches students how a time period affects literature written in that time period.  The unit offers a variety of books from which to choose, many of which are on general high school lists (e.g. To Kill a Mockinbird, Fahrenheit 451, The Great Gatsby, Native Son, etc).  This unit, therefore, can be adapted to various whole class novel studies; it may also be used with literature circles or individually chosen novels.  Students then create an essential question about the time period of the book and complete a research project utilizing primary and secondary sources. Last, students take on a persona from a person in that time period and complete a presentation.  Assessment includes a peer assessment.  Handouts, differentiation ideas, and ELL modifications are provided in this lesson.

This unit can be used to focus on the literature standard about historical periods (8.4) and research skills while teaching a novel study or having students do a more independent novel study.  The research aspect of this unit is somewhat unique (creating a persona and project) and may be appropriate for students who are difficult to motivate.  This unit incorporates writing, peer evaluation, critical thinking, and making connections to text.  This is an excellent resource to use when teaching novels in which the time period plays a central role in the actions of characters.