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Year 10 - English

'Animal Farm': reading and discussing Chapter 1

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 describe the events of Chapter 1 and recognise emerging themes.

Key Notes

  • Mr Jones is the drunk and reckless owner of the farm.
  • Old Major is a well respected boar. He represents a challenge to authority and dominant ideology
  • Old Major uses rhetoric effectively to influence the animals.
  • Powers and hierarchical structures are already beginning to emerge. The pigs have more authority.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • hierarchy: A hierarchy is where people or things are ranked with reference to status or authority.
  • oppression: Oppression occurs when individuals or groups of people are unfairly treated and controlled by those in power.
  • ideology: An ideology is a system of ideas, values or beliefs.
  • privileged: If you are privileged you are seen to have special rights or advantages over others.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That the animals are always equal, even from the very start.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Mr Jones is the drunk and reckless owner of the farm. Old Major is a well respected boar. He represents a challenge to authority and dominant ideology.

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

A hierarchy is where people or things are ranked with reference to status or authority.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: That the animals are always equal, even from the very start. Correction: Focus on the positioning of the animals and how they enter the barn. Orwell is already beginning to make distinctions between the animals.

More Lessons In This Unit

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