Transcendentalism Exploration

Introduction

This brief lesson plan is designed to introduce students to the concept of transcendental traits in American literature. It is specific to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts, aimed at 11th grade, focusing on Literature (CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.11-12.9).

Objective

Students will learn to identify and analyze transcendental traits in select works of American literature, gaining an understanding of the influence of transcendentalism on American literary history.

Materials

• Worksheet for recognizing transcendental traits (provided below)
• Excerpts from American transcendentalist authors (e.g., Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau)

Procedure

Total Time: 2 minutes

1. Introduction (30 seconds)

   • Provide a brief overview of transcendentalism as a philosophical and literary movement in 19th-century America.
   • Highlight key transcendental traits such as nature, individualism, intuition, and spirituality.

2. Worksheet Activity (1 minute)

   • Distribute the worksheet to students to complete individually.
   • Encourage students to use their prior knowledge of American literature and the characteristics of transcendentalism.

3. Discussion and Wrap-up (30 seconds)

   • Invite students to share one transcendental trait they identified from the worksheet.
   • Conclude by reinforcing the relevance of these traits in understanding American literature.

Worksheet: Identifying Transcendental Traits

Instructions: Below are excerpts from various American authors. Identify and describe the transcendental trait present in each excerpt. Use the space provided for your answers.

Excerpt 1: Ralph Waldo Emerson

"To go into solitude, a man needs to retire as much from his chamber as from society."

• Transcendental Trait:
• Explanation:

Excerpt 2: Henry David Thoreau

"In the woods, we return to reason and faith."

• Transcendental Trait:
• Explanation:

Excerpt 3: Walt Whitman

"I celebrate myself, and sing myself, And what I assume you shall assume."

• Transcendental Trait:
• Explanation:

Excerpt 4: Emily Dickinson

"The Brain—is wider than the Sky—"

• Transcendental Trait:
• Explanation:

Scoring Criteria

• Comprehensive Understanding: Identifies the correct transcendental trait and provides a clear explanation for each excerpt.
• Critical Thinking: Demonstrates an ability to connect transcendental traits to broader themes in American literature.
• Clarity of Expression: Answers are concise and well-articulated.

Reflection

Encourage students to reflect on how transcendentalism might still influence modern literature and daily life today. Consider asking them to draw parallels between transcendental ideas and current societal trends regarding individuality and connection to nature.

By integrating these components, teachers can deliver an engaging, thought-provoking exploration of American transcendentalism within the limited time frame.