INSTRUCTIONAL UNIT PLANNING TOOL
Grade/Subject – English IV – The Tragic Hero
Quarter – 3rd
Unit Overview – As the students read Macbeth, they will investigate the
evolution of Middle English into Modern English and the significance of
the historical background as it applies to Macbeth. Students will be
introduced to dramatic literature, the history of the theater, and William
Shakespeare
Essential Question – How does overreaching ambition affect societies?
Focus Standards – RL1, W7, RI1, W2, L1, W7, R19
Student Outcomes – (“I Can”) –
The student will identify the characteristics of a tragic hero. They will
investigate motifs of paradox, equivocation, and the corrupting
influence of power. They will compare and contrast the elements of
drama to film. Students will also identify the effects of supernatural
elements in the play.
Instructional Texts – Holt McDougal Literature: Grade 12
Sample Activities and Assessments Students will apply the characteristics of the tragic hero to the Macbeth
and Lady Macbeth. RL1
Students will research how lack of sleep affect individuals. W7
Students will research the origin of witchcraft in relation to King James.
RI1
Students will analyze how the absence of Christian faith affects the
choices of characters within the play. RL3
Students will paraphrase "Act 5" of Macbeth. W2
Students will determine whether Shakespeare is an advocate or critic
women’s rights. RL3, W1
Students will read selected passages in character. L1
Students will realize the power of Shakespeare’s ability to analyze and
depict universal human nature. RL3
Art, Music, Media –
Film: Macbeth (various versions available)
Students will create a playbill for Macbeth. W7
Students will complete a formal assessment which includes but is not
limited to characteristics of the tragic hero and the theater. RI9