Introduction
Star Wars: The Force Awakens is the seventh installment in the legendary Star Wars film series. As a popular cultural phenomenon, it can make for an engaging and educational topic to teach students. In this article, we’ll explore how you can introduce The Force Awakens as a teaching tool in a classroom setting.
Lesson Plan Overview
1. Introducing Star Wars: The Force Awakens:
Begin by giving a brief introduction to the Star Wars franchise, focusing on The Force Awakens. Provide some basic information about the film’s release date, director, and main characters.
2. Watching the Film:
Organize a class screening of The Force Awakens. Encourage students to pay close attention to the characters, their relationships, and the plot structure.
3. Discussion & Analysis:
After watching the film, facilitate a group discussion about the movie. Invite students to share their thoughts on specific scenes, character arcs, and any overarching themes they found prevalent in the story.
4. Character Examination:
Break down the major characters in The Force Awakens, such as Rey, Finn, Kylo Ren, and Poe Dameron. Discuss their personalities and how they change throughout the movie. Encourage students to debate moral dilemmas faced by these characters.
5. Themes & Symbolism:
Identify key themes present in The Force Awakens, such as friendship, family dynamics, legacy, and the struggle between good and evil. Discuss how these themes are portrayed through different symbolic elements and cinematic techniques in the film.
6. Comparing To Other Films In The Series:
Compare and contrast The Force Awakens with other movies in the Star Wars franchise. What similarities or differences can be identified? How has the storyline evolved over time?
7. Creative Writing or Fan Fiction Assignment:
As a follow-up activity, have students create their own short stories or fan fiction pieces set in the Star Wars universe. This exercise encourages creativity and helps students practice their writing skills.
8. Incorporating STEM Concepts:
Introduce basic principles of physics, such as how objects move in space, the concept of gravity, or the use of alternative energy sources. Use examples from The Force Awakens to make these subjects more engaging and relatable to students.
9. Debates and Ethical Discussions:
Encourage students to analyze the ethical struggles within the film, such as the moral responsibility of a powerful organization like the First Order. Initiate a debate about the film’s relevance to real-world issues involving power dynamics and resistance.
Conclusion
Star Wars: The Force Awakens is not only an entertaining film but also an excellent educational tool for teaching various subjects, such as character development, themes and symbolism, STEM concepts, and ethics. By integrating this exciting story into your class curriculum, you can create an engaging learning experience that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary skills among your students.
