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Year 10 - English

'Animal Farm': reading Chapter 2 and exploring the three pigs

Animal Farm: the pigs and power

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils start their exploration of Orwell's 'Animal Farm' by focusing on the pigs and how they weild power. Pupils first read the book before exploring symbolism, key characters and Orwell's methods. They finally hone their essay writing skills and write about the pigs' use of power.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the events of chapter 2 and the role of the three pigs.

Key Notes

  • Napoleon, Snowball and Squealer are emerging as the most powerful animals on the farm
  • The three pigs all have different leadership qualities
  • Propaganda is used to gain and maintain power structures
  • The three pigs are an allusion to Stalin, Trotsky and Molotov/propaganda
  • Orwell uses language to present Napoleon as controlling and foreshadow future events

Vocabulary To Learn

  • rebellion: A rebellion is an action organised by a group of people trying to change the political system.
  • charismatic: If you are charismatic you come across as charming and engaging.
  • propaganda: Propaganda is the use of information to promote a particular idea in order to influence or manipulate people.
  • allusion: An allusion is a reference to something, such as a historical event or person, that helps to convey a deeper meaning.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Old Major invents Animalism.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Napoleon, Snowball and Squealer are emerging as the most powerful animals on the farm. The three pigs all have different leadership qualities.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'rebellion'

A rebellion is an action organised by a group of people trying to change the political system.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Old Major invents Animalism. Correction: The three pigs invent Animalism in response to Old Major's speech. What might Orwell be commenting on here or trying to reveal?

More Lessons In This Unit

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