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Year 10 - English

Exploring the different methods of control and leadership in 'Animal Farm'

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 different methods of control in 'Animal Farm' and how the pigs use these to gain power.

Key Notes

  • A cult of personality is the result of a carefully constructed persona, spread through propaganda and other means
  • Napoleon reflects Stalin's use of propaganda and methods of control
  • Orwell explores how leaders gain power through created personas, language and education
  • Orwell emphasises the dangers of an uneducated working class in the maintaining of power and hierarchy

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Persona: A persona is the part of your character or personality that is presented to other people.
  • Ideology: Ideology is a system of ideas or values that underpin a theory or idea.
  • Cult of personality: A cult of personality is where a public figure (such as a political leader) is presented as a great person who should be admired and loved.
  • Reverence: To show reverence is to demonstrate a deep respect for something or someone.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That everyone in power sees education as a way to better society.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

A cult of personality is the result of a carefully constructed persona, spread through propaganda and other means. Napoleon reflects Stalin's use of propaganda and methods of control.

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

A persona is the part of your character or personality that is presented to other people.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: That everyone in power sees education as a way to better society. Correction: How does it feel when you don't understand something? Confusing? Scary? Disorientating? How could the pigs use this to their advantage?

More Lessons In This Unit

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