Analyzing the Setting

Students identify the setting of a photo of an astronaut in space. Then, they read and respond to a passage from a classic children’s book with a distinct setting. Next, they explain how setting influences plot. Finally, they apply what they have learned to a story they know and like.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

The Pack contains associated resources for the learning experience, typically in the form of articles and videos. There is a teacher Pack (with only teacher information) and a student Pack (which contains only student information). As a teacher, you can toggle between both to see everything.

Here are the teacher pack items for Analyzing the Setting:

Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates, by Mary Mapes Dodge
Printable version
ELPS Alignment
Attributions

Engage

Overview

In this experience, students identify the setting of a photo of an astronaut in space. Then, they read and respond to a passage from a classic children’s book with a distinct setting. Next, they explain how setting influences plot. Finally, they apply what they have learned to a story they know and like.

Objectives

Identify the setting of a work of fiction.
Explain how the setting influences the plot.

Duration

One class period.

Vocabulary Words in Hans Brinker excerpt

Dame: Mrs.
labor: work
peat: a cheap fuel made from moss-like matter
services: things one person does for another
current: (1) happening now; (2) a flow of water
satchel: book bag
splendid: very fine

The setting of a story is the time and place where it occurs. In this experience, you will find out how the setting is important to a story.

Objectives

Identify the setting of a work of fiction.
Explain how the setting influences the plot.

astronaut outside the International Space Station orbiting Earth

Look at the photo above.

Where does the photo take place? When does it take place? (You don’t have to give an exact location or an exact date.) Answer both questions, using complete sentences.

Post your answer

If you answered correctly, you have identified the setting of the photo. Now go to the next scene and learn about the settings of stories.

Discuss student responses. The setting is outer space, in orbit above Earth. The time is during a recent decade, when the International Space Station existed. (Its first piece was launched in November 1998.)

Students do not need to identify the space station specifically. “During the age of space flight” can be considered a correct answer.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

The Complete List of Learning Experiences in Literary Genres Unit.