Inspired by: Weslandia - Week 1

In the exploration of the character Wesley from "Weslandia", students delve into the nuances of language and how it shapes our understanding of a character's experience. The lesson begins by identifying Wesley as an outcast, different from his peers, and prompts students to consider the implications of this isolation. Discussions arise around the reasons behind Wesley's status as an outcast and the term's use in other contexts, such as the sonnet "Outcast" by Claude McKay. Students are encouraged to infer details about Wesley's relationship with his family from textual clues, considering his parents' frustration and Wesley's own feelings about not fitting in.

An examination of Wesley's bedroom through an illustration provides further insight into his character. Students are tasked with describing the room, including a detailed list of objects that reveal aspects of Wesley's personality, such as a model of da Vinci's flying machine. The activity emphasises the correct use of colons to introduce lists, ensuring the clause before the colon is a complete sentence. For example: "Wesley's bedroom was a treasure trove of his unique interests: a collection of science fiction novels, intricate puzzles, sketches of fantastical creatures, and the intricate model of da Vinci's flying machine." The lesson continues with a focus on grammar, teaching the use of relative clauses beginning with 'who' and 'that', through oral and written exercises. Students learn to define tormentors and find synonyms, then apply their understanding in sentences with relative clauses. The session culminates with a creative writing task where students narrate Wesley's journey home from school, using relative clauses to add depth to the events described.