Objective: Students will analyze the final act of The Importance of Being Earnest, focusing on how the themes evolve and the resolution of dramatic situations. They will take notes and complete discussion questions to explore Wilde’s comedic style and thematic development.

Bell Ringer: Reflecting on the title The Importance of Being Earnest, how do you think the concept of “earnestness” has evolved throughout the play? In what ways have characters shifted in their attitudes towards honesty and identity by Act III?

Agenda: Tea Party/ Review homework/ Read and finish Act III/ Take notes on theme and discussion questions/ HW: Focused Skill Practice  

Objective: Students will evaluate and analyze the themes and subtext in The Importance of Being Earnest, focusing on the play’s potential homosexual subtext and its broader implications. They will also review key concepts for the upcoming test.

Bell Ringer: Oscar Wilde’s personal life and relationships have been a topic of much discussion, with some reading The Importance of Being Earnest as having a homosexual subtext. Reflect on this idea. Do you think Wilde intentionally included these elements in the play? Why or why not? What might this reveal about his views on society and identity?

Agenda: Review homework/ Prep for Timed Writing/Complete reflection question #3

Objective: Students will demonstrate their understanding of The Importance of Being Earnest through a test. 

Bell Ringer: Before the test begins, take a few minutes to reflect on the overall themes of The Importance of Being Earnest. What do you think Wilde was trying to communicate about society, love, and identity? How might these ideas be relevant today?

Agenda: Unit Test/ Assign Project/ Timed Writing Prep

Objective: Students will apply their knowledge of The Importance of Being Earnest in a timed writing exercise, focusing on analyzing themes, characters, and Wilde’s use of satire, while demonstrating their ability to craft a well-organized and thoughtful essay under time constraints.

Bell Ringer: In preparation for your timed writing, think about one key theme or element in The Importance of Being Earnest that you found particularly impactful. Jot down some ideas about why this stood out to you and how it relates to the broader messages of the play.

Agenda: Timed Writing

Objective: Students will analyze the 2002 film adaptation of The Importance of Being Earnest directed by Oliver Parker, comparing it to the original play by Oscar Wilde. They will focus on the interpretation of characters, themes, and how the visual and performance choices enhance the satire and humor.

Bell Ringer: As you continue watching the film, notice how the filmmakers use visual elements (like lighting, framing, or costumes) to emphasize themes of identity and deception. How do these elements affect the portrayal of the characters' struggles with honesty? Write down one scene where you see these themes being visually highlighted.

Agenda: Film and Project Work Day