Grade 8: English Scholars Study Dracula
Jane Maslanka's English students were introduced to the novel, Dracula,by Bram Stoker, wrapping up their study just before Halloween. First published in 1897, Dracula represents the birth of the gothic horror novel genre.
"Students have found the novel challenging due to its antiquated language and epistolary structure, but have loved it for its suspense and spookiness," Jane shares.
"Students have found the novel challenging due to its antiquated language and epistolary structure, but have loved it for its suspense and spookiness," Jane shares.
Jane Maslanka's English students were introduced to the novel, Dracula, by Bram Stoker, wrapping up their study just before Halloween. First published in 1897, Dracula represents the birth of the gothic horror novel genre.
"Students have found the novel challenging due to its antiquated language and epistolary structure, but have loved it for its suspense and spookiness," Jane shares.
Literary goals of the unit were to comprehend the plot, trace common victorian tropes and motifs, recognize symbols typical in European literature, and have a little fun in the Halloween season.
"Students have participated in some pretty high level literary discussion during our study of this novel and have had fun choosing and designing creative projects as well," Jane says. Samples include soundtracks, character interviews, poetry collections, dramatic monologues, book cover designs, and sculptures.
The final element of the Dracula unit took students and chaperones to the Ellie Caulkins theatre for the Colorado Ballet's performance of this classic tale.
"Students have found the novel challenging due to its antiquated language and epistolary structure, but have loved it for its suspense and spookiness," Jane shares.
Literary goals of the unit were to comprehend the plot, trace common victorian tropes and motifs, recognize symbols typical in European literature, and have a little fun in the Halloween season.
"Students have participated in some pretty high level literary discussion during our study of this novel and have had fun choosing and designing creative projects as well," Jane says. Samples include soundtracks, character interviews, poetry collections, dramatic monologues, book cover designs, and sculptures.
The final element of the Dracula unit took students and chaperones to the Ellie Caulkins theatre for the Colorado Ballet's performance of this classic tale.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
