James Hurst, "The Scarlet Ibis"
Lesson plans and teaching resources
After reading the short story "The Scarlet Ibis" by James Hurst, students will assume the role of either a prosecuting attorney or a defense attorney and prepare persuasive speeches for the jury in regards to the guilt or innocence of the narrator, Brother. Through this activity, students will see how small details and symbolic imagery present a case and set the stage or a debate about the criminality of Brothers actions. Through the lens of the law, students come to understand the complexities of human relationships and human suffering.
How might students use storyboards to demonstrate and to extend their learning? Check the resources here. Includes plot summary, essential questions, and learning activities like creating a plot diagram, analyzing style, and finding themes and symbolism.
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Students explore symbolism.
A slide presentation with pictures of a scarlet ibis and a Florida swamp, questions for discussion/writing.
This thorough unit includes a packet of activities with vocabulary and structured analysis of the story.
Graphic organizer for character analysis, vocabulary, and editing practice. This document requires Adobe Reader or compatible application for access.
Students note details as they read. Includes text-dependent questions and suggested evidence-based answers, academic vocabulary, a culminating writing task with prompt and model response, and additional learning activities. Word processor required for access.
This Wikipedia page includes information about the bird and several pictures.