Don Quixote Project based learning (PBL) & readers theater script
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Description
Wondering how to engage 21st century learners with a 17th century text? Over the years scholars have debated on the sanity of the Don Quixote character. This project combines reading, writing, acting, analysis, group work, discussion and critical thinking to answer that question.
Included are readers theater scripts (1 longer introductory script and 4 more shorter ones), discussion questions, 4 rubrics, a tie in lesson on censorship/banned books, internet resources and review games. Great interdisciplinary project incorporating Civics, foreign language (Spanish), world geography and drama.
Premise: Several people (to be determined by students) are bringing civil suits against Don Quixote for damage done to themselves or their property. His niece is attempting to have Don Quixote declared insane and therefore not responsible for his actions in order to save him and herself from financial ruin. When the judge is unable to render a verdict about Quixote's sanity, the students will read, research and prepare evidence for one side or the other. This establishes both a purpose for reading and many opportunities for students to interact with each other and the text as they read.
Several reader's theater style scripts are provided as chapter introductions and examples for students to follow when crafting their own scripts. Scaffolding of the first 19 chapters should prepare students following reading chapter 19, to read and function in their groups independently.
Other available Medieval and Renaissance literature products:
Freebie: Medieval and Renaissance sampler
The Luck of the Roaring Camp reader's theater script and unit plan
