Lesson Title: Taoist Thought in Chinese Utopian Poetry

Class and Grade level(s): 10th grade World Literature

Goals and Objectives – Students will:

Be familiar with the most basic tenets of Taoist thought

understand the concept of utopia

be able to read and discuss Chinese Utopian poetry

write a composition demonstrating their own utopian vision

Time required/class periods needed: One Block Period (90 minutes)

Primary source bibliography: T’ao Ch’ien (Tao Qian): “I Built My Cottage Among the Habitations of Men”; “Two Poems on Returning

to Dwell in the Country”; “The Peach Blossom Fountain”. Scott, Foresmen. Classics in World Literature. Scott, Foresman & Company, 1991.

Other resources used: Taoist thought handout Classics in Literature textbook

Required materials/supplies: Blackboard and chalk

Vocabulary: Utopia Taoism image theme setting rhythm rhyme allusion simile metaphor alliteration

Procedure: 1. Distribute handout (below) on Taoist thought. Read and discuss with students. Expand on

information and have students give feedback. 2. Have students read introduction to Chinese poetry in textbook. On blackboard, list what students

feel is familiar to them regarding Chinese thought and poetry and what is unfamiliar to them. 3. Review literary terms: utopia, image, theme, setting, etc. 4. Read aloud and discuss the three short poems by T’ao Ch’ien (Tao Qian) 5. Expand on the poet’s concept of an ideal society, especially in “The Peach-Blossom Fountain.”

Discuss how it relates to Taoist thought. 6. In a composition of 300-500 words, have students describe their own vision of a utopian society. It

can be essay style or framed as a simple story, or even a series of poems.

Assessment/evaluation: Informal assessment will occur during in-class reading and discussion time. By evaluating

feedback, the teacher will gauge understanding.

Formal assessment will occur when students turn in essays. Evaluation will be based on form, content, and independent thought.