Using Netflix to Bridge the Gap Between Shakespeare and Teens of the Tech Age

Melanie St. Marie

“...but why do we need to learn this?”

Throughout my student teaching experience, I saw more productivity and participation from students when they could see how a lesson pertained to their lives outside of the classroom

However, proving the relevancy of 16th Century dramas to the lives of 21st Century teens proved challenging and required a great deal of creativity

The Plan Further develop student interest and understanding of Shakespeare and his

writing style by identifying his influence in familiar modern media

Featured Media

Text: The Tragedy of Othello, Moor of Venice by William Shakespeare Modern counterpart: House of Cards written by Beau Willimon (play, 1603)

(Netflix original series, 2013-present)

The LessonReview and discuss Iago’s role as Vice character in Othello

Watch segment from House of Cards episode

Small groups create character sketch posters, making connections between similar House of Cards and Othello characters

Groups present character sketch posters and elaborate on their connections

Samples

Areas of Strength- Utilized various teaching methods, such as cooperative learning,

discussion, video, and arts and crafts

- Furthered student understanding by relating Shakespearean texts to more contemporary and familiar contexts

- Gave students deeper insight into the lasting cultural relevancy of Shakespeare’s work

- Kept students engaged and encouraged collaboration

Personal and Professional Growth

- Creative lesson planning

- Drawing connections

- Differentiated instruction

- Engaged learning