Introduction to Transcendentalism

August 22, 2018

Standard: 

RL.11-12.1 Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.

RL.11-12.2 Determine two or more themes of a text and analyze their development over the course of the text, including how they interact and build on one another to produce a complex account; provide an objective summary of the text.

RL.11-12.9 Analyze how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics and compare the approaches the authors take.

Obj: I can cite strong evidence to support analysis of themes in multiple texts and compare the authors approach to it.  

EQ: How does environment shape identity?

Starter: 

Complete the self-reflection on project work handout.

I will collect these from you when you are complete. 

Vocabulary: 

Word: Transcendentalism

Part of Speech: Noun

Dictionary Definition: an idealistic philosophical and social movement that developed in New England around 1836 in reaction to rationalism. Influenced by romanticism, Platonism, and Kantian philosophy, it taught that divinity pervades all nature and humanity, and its members held progressive views on feminism and communal living. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau were central figures.

Your Definition: 

Activity: Connect modern day ideas to those held during the transcendental period.

Activity: 

1.  Gallery Walk

Clearly display your product at your table and leave a space for peers to provide feedback.

You are responsible for providing at least FIVE peers with a plus and delta. 

2.  Five Pillars of Transcendentalism

Identify the five main ideas from the video.

3.  Examples of Transcendental Thought

You will complete the handout individually.

For each idea, find an example from a book, movie, TV show, etc.

Make sure to explain the meaning in detail.

We will share some of our ideas to the class. 

4.  Song of Myself

First Read.

Annotate the poem Song of Myself pages 125-129 

Discussion

What lines stood out to you?

What does it mean to "celebrate myself?"

What are the major underlying ideas and themes?

What is the significance of this poem coming after the Declaration of Independence?

Second Read

Answer the think questions on page 129.

Closure: 

Complete the end of unit refection for the four reading informational texts standards we unpacked.
Circle the number and provide a sentence explanation.