Navigating Trauma

Curriculum Area and Level

Subject: English
Level: NCEA Level 1 (Year 11)

Lesson Duration

Total Time: 90 minutes
Class Size: 14 students

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the psychological impacts of human disasters.
2. Analyze and interpret texts (both visual and written) related to human disasters.
3. Develop critical thinking and reflection skills.
4. Communicate findings effectively in both oral and written formats.

Resources Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector and computer
• Printed copies of a short story (e.g., “The Sniper” by Liam O’Flaherty)
• Short video clip on psychological impacts of natural disasters
• Student journals/notebooks
• A3 paper and coloured markers

Lesson Plan

Introduction (15 minutes)

Activity 1: Setting the Scene

• Time: 15 minutes
• Description:
  • Start with a brief discussion on human disasters (natural disasters, war, pandemics) and their potential psychological impacts.
  • Use a couple of real-life examples pertinent to New Zealand, such as the Christchurch Earthquake or the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Ask students to share any prior knowledge or personal experiences they may have related to human disasters.

Teacher Notes:

• Ensure that the discussion remains sensitive and respectful of students' experiences.
• Briefly explain the day's objectives and activities.

Main Activities (60 minutes)

Activity 2: Video Analysis

• Time: 20 minutes
• Description:
  • Show a short video clip introducing the psychological impacts of natural and human-made disasters.
  • Post-viewing, hold a brief Q&A session to gauge students' initial thoughts and reactions.

Activity 3: Textual Analysis and Group Discussion

• Time: 30 minutes
• Description:
  • Distribute copies of the short story "The Sniper" by Liam O’Flaherty.
  • Students have 10 minutes to read the story individually.
  • Divide the class into small groups and provide A3 paper and markers.
  • Each group discusses the psychological impacts of the story’s events on the protagonist and records their notes.
  • Groups present their findings to the class.

Teacher Notes:

• Prompt students to consider internal conflicts, emotional trauma, and long-term psychological effects.
• Circulate through the groups to facilitate and provoke deeper thinking.

Activity 4: Reflective Writing

• Time: 10 minutes
• Description:
  • Students spend 10 minutes reflecting individually in their journals.
  • Prompt: "How do you think human disasters shape individuals' mental health and world views?"

Teacher Notes:

• Encourage students to draw from the video, story, and group discussion.

Conclusion (15 minutes)

Activity 5: Class Discussion and Wrap Up

• Time: 15 minutes
• Description:
  • Regroup as a class for a final discussion.
  • Each student shares one key takeaway from the lesson.
  • Reiterate the main points discussed during the lesson.

Teacher Notes:

• Summarize the psychological impacts discussed and highlight how literature and media can help us understand human experiences.

Homework/Extension

Description:

• Assign students to research a recent human disaster and reflect on its psychological impacts, preparing a short report to be discussed in the next class.

Assessment

Formative Assessment:

• Participation in discussions and group work.
• Reflections in journals.
• Group presentations.

Summative Assessment (Optional):

• Written report on the psychological impacts of a recent human disaster.

Special Considerations

• Be mindful of the sensitive nature of the topic.
• Offer support resources for students who may find the content distressing.
• Allow for accommodations or alternative activities if needed.

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This lesson plan integrates multiple competencies from The New Zealand Curriculum, including Thinking, Using Language, Symbols, and Texts, and Managing Self. It encourages students to engage critically with the content and develop a deep, empathetic understanding of the human condition.