Macbeth - Lesson 8 - Macbeth's Diary PowerPoint

In Lesson 8 of a series on 'Macbeth', the focus is on deepening students' understanding of the complex relationships between key characters: Macbeth, Lady Macbeth, and Banquo. The lesson's primary objective is to use diary writing as a tool to assess students' grasp of both character development and plot progression. To kick off the lesson, students are tasked with completing a Venn diagram, a visual exercise that requires them to compare and contrast the traits of the three characters. By identifying unique attributes and those shared between the characters, students can explore the nuances of ambition, suspicion, and valour that define each individual within the play.

Following the Venn diagram activity, students delve into the narrative by reading up to the end of Act One. They are then asked to step into Macbeth's shoes, imagining his inner thoughts and feelings about the unfolding events. This creative exercise involves writing a diary entry from Macbeth's perspective, covering key moments such as the battle, the witches' prophecies, his contemplations regarding King Duncan, his relationship with Lady Macbeth, and his personal aspirations and anxieties about the future. The lesson culminates with a plenary session where students read their diary entries to a partner and engage in constructive feedback discussions, pinpointing strengths and areas for improvement in their writing. This reflective dialogue aims to sharpen their analytical and creative writing skills, while also fostering a collaborative learning environment.