Discuss the themes of the 1960’s in ‘Of Mice an Men’

Discuss the themes of the 1960’s in ‘Of Mice an Men’

English Extension Project

Task

With reference to John Steinbeck’s novel ‘Of Mice and Men’, research the context of that era and how it relates to a theme of your choice. You will produce a detailed essay (1000 words) and a power point presentation.

What you need to do:

Read ‘Of Mice and Men’ and other Steinbeck novel’s such as ‘Grapes of Wrath’ and ‘The Pearl’

Watch the following films on context:

Using the ‘Take it Further’ folders in Unit 1 (English Literature) and Unit 3, Section a, extended reading (English Language) under your English Classroom on VLE, read the following articles:

· Racism in 1930s America

· John Steinbeck & California

· ‘Of Mice and Men:’ Steinbeck’s controversial banned book for over 50 years

· Letter to Claire Luce

Complete research on John Steinbeck and 1930s America using the following websites:

http://amerlitlegacy.blogspot.co.uk/2011/04/literary-analysis-of-john-steinbecks-of.html

http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=rXD0niaoCMUC&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q&f=false

What else you can do?

· Watch media interpretations of the novel

· Complete independent research either through online criticism or study guides

· Research other novels written at the time and if they address the same themes.

Outcome	Success Criteria
Presentation	· Clear and informative · Enhanced by images and pictures · Detailed and has a clear direction that links to the purpose of your task
Essay	· Detailed and well-structured so there is a clear purpose to your writing · Supported with effective reference to the novel · Steinbeck’s structural and linguistic techniques analysed · Sophisticated interpretation of the context in which Steinbeck was writing and how this is reflected in the novel · An insightful and personal understanding of the novel must be conveyed

You will need to present your power point and essay for the 13th September – good luck!