Things Fall Apart

Lesson 13
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ELA

Unit 2

11th Grade

Lesson 13 of 25

Objective


Explain how Achebe develops the theme of the individual and community in chapter 11.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe  — Chapter 11

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Target Task


Question 1

It can be reasonably inferred that the main reason the author includes the tale of the tortoise is to

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Question 2

Which best describes the mood in pp. 100–108?

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Question 3

How does the author develop the theme of the individual and community in chapter 11? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • Describe the setting (pp. 96–97) and mood at the beginning of the chapter.
  • The oral tradition is an important part of Igbo culture. Track the significance of storytelling and stories in the first half of chapter 11.
  • “A man who makes trouble for others is also making it for himself." Who says this on p. 97? How does it relate to Okonkwo? To theme?
  • What is the message of the story about the tortoise?
  • Describe the change in mood on p. 100. What causes the mood to shift?
  • What is the significance of Chielo’s warning to Okonkwo on p. 101? How does it continue to develop theme?
  • What motivates Okonkwo to try and bargain with Chielo? How does Chielo respond to Ekwefi’s offer to accompany her on p. 101?
  • What is the possible significance of Chielo referring to Ezinma as “my daughter?”
  • What decision does Ekwefi make at the top of p. 103? What is the significance of this decision?
  • How does the author continue to develop the mood in these pages?
  • Does Ekwefi heed Chielo’s warning on p. 105? Why or why not?
  • How do Ekwefi’s decisions in this chapter develop the theme of community? 
  • What does Okonkwo’s appearance convey about his character? Consider both what it means for him as a father and as a member of the community who should follow the wishes of the Oracle.
  • What does his presence stir up in Ekwefi? Why?

Notes


Chapter 11 is a lengthy chapter. The teacher may wish to have students begin the chapter for homework on the night prior to this lesson. If necessary, they could finish it for homework after lesson 13, but this might interfere with their ability to prep for the essay in lesson 14.

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Lesson 12

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Lesson 14

Lesson Map

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