Students are coming in with Lazy Sonnets (assigned at the end of this lesson) based on Act 3, scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet. We will share their sonnets at the beginning of class (SL.9-10.1). The presentations will prepare us to read the next scene, which is especially important because between the test, watching sections of the movies, and our Book Trailers, we haven't specifically done close reading and analysis of the Romeo and Juliet text in several days. Moreover, the presentations provide an outlet, wherein students can show their creativity. Take a look at a few of the masterpieces: example 1, example 2, and a quick movie with several examples.
As a transition from the Lazy Sonnets to the next scene in the play, I will ask students to use adjectives to describe scene 1. I expect words like tense and violent. I will explain that the next scene begins serenely, a clear contrast to the last scene. Juliet is waiting for Romeo to arrive and is oblivious to what has just occurred (alas, no cell phones, no twitter). I will ask students to focus on the language throughout the scene. Here's a sample of what we will focus on as we read:
Juliet's language echoes Romeo's (RL.9-10.4)
Cryptic Messages
Loyalty
At the end of class, we will have a brief discussion about Juliet's reaction to the news. She has sent the Nurse to Friar Lawrence's cell to give Romeo a ring, signifying her love and commitment to him. Is that the right thing to do?