Exploring the Gothic

Curriculum Alignment:

• Subject: English
• Topic: Gothic Fiction
• Key Stage: 3 (Year 9)
• UK National Curriculum:
  • Reading: Comprehend the origins and conventions of a genre (Gothic Literature).
  • Writing: Build vocabulary to exemplify the Gothic mood and language.
  • Spoken Language: Develop confidence in discussing literary texts and blending creativity with critical thinking.

Lesson Duration: 5 minutes

Lesson Objective:

By the end of the starter activity, students will have been introduced to the Gothic genre, engaged with its themes, and identified elements that define its unique style. Students will begin to build a foundation for future lessons exploring this literary genre.

Starter Activity: "What is the Gothic?"

Activity Overview:

Deliver a quick, interactive, and engaging quiz to spark interest and introduce students to the Gothic genre. This activity will act as a foundational tool to familiarise them with common themes, settings, and ideas before analysing texts in depth.

Students will answer 10 simple, scaffolded questions designed to activate curiosity while stimulating basic literary knowledge.

Instructions for Delivery:

1. Set the Atmosphere: Dim the lights slightly (if possible) and play soft, ominous background music to set a Gothic mood. This immersive approach will engage even reluctant learners.
2. Format: Present the questions aloud or on the board (written down or projected via slides). Use a quick-fire, verbal response approach, encouraging students to discuss answers with peers if unsure.
3. Materials: Optional use of mini-whiteboards and pens for individual responses. Alternatively, students can simply answer collaboratively by raising hands.
4. Timing: Allow 30 seconds per question and discussion to pique curiosity without overwhelming low-level learners.

Quiz Questions:

1. What is the Gothic genre?
   a) A type of dance
   b) A mysterious and spooky style of storytelling
   c) A type of art found in castles
   (Correct Answer: b)

2. Which word best describes a Gothic story?
   a) Funny
   b) Bright
   c) Mysterious
   (Correct Answer: c)

3. Gothic stories often take place in which type of setting?
   a) A sunny beach
   b) An old, creepy castle
   c) A fast food restaurant
   (Correct Answer: b)

4. Name one emotion Gothic stories might make you feel.
   (Expected Answers: scared, nervous, curious, sad, uneasy)

5. What time of day is often used in Gothic stories?
   a) Midnight or night time
   b) Morning or afternoon
   c) Lunchtime
   (Correct Answer: a)

6. Which of these might appear in a Gothic story?
   a) A ghost
   b) A superhero
   c) A talking dog
   (Correct Answer: a)

7. In Gothic stories, which weather conditions are common?
   a) Stormy and foggy
   b) Bright and sunny
   c) Rainbows and clear skies
   (Correct Answer: a)

8. What feelings do Gothic stories put in the minds of readers?
   (Expected Answers: suspense, fear, worry, excitement)

9. Would you expect to see a haunted house in a Gothic story? Why?
   (Expected Answer: Yes, because Gothic stories often involve spooky and mysterious buildings.)

10. What might you hope to read about in a Gothic story?
    (Expected Answers: ghosts, castles, mysteries, secret doors, hidden rooms, vampires, storms.)

Differentiation:

• Low-Level Learners: Work in pairs to share ideas for each answer. Additionally, allow multiple choice or eliminate one incorrect option.
• Higher-Level Learners: Engage them in justifying their answers or asking follow-up questions. E.g., “Why do you think old castles work well in Gothic stories?”

Reflection and Wrap-Up:

At the end of the starter activity, quickly highlight key points the class answered well. For instance:

• "You’ve all identified that Gothic stories often involve mystery and spooky settings—fantastic start! Let’s remember this theme as we start reading Gothic stories in future lessons."

Students should leave the activity with excitement and curiosity, ready to delve deeper into Gothic Literature.