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Lesson plan

The Man and His Two Wives

Grades
5–8
Time
50 min
Reading level
3
PDFPrint the worksheetRead the story

Lesson flow

5 min

Opening Hook

Start with a relatable anecdote about a time when trying to please everyone backfired. Ask students to share their experiences briefly.

15–20 min

Story Exploration

Read the story aloud, ensuring to emphasize key character traits and moments of conflict. After reading, briefly summarize the plot and discuss the moral.

15 min

Analysis Exercises

Divide students into small groups and assign each group a character. Have them discuss and present their character's motivations and the implications of their actions on the man.

10 min

Application/Reflection

Ask students to write a short paragraph reflecting on what they learned from the story about the importance of self-identity versus others' expectations.

5 min

Assessment Strategy

Conduct a quick poll asking students to rate from 1 to 5 how much they relate to the moral of the story, followed by a brief class discussion.

STORY OVERVIEW

  • Title and Moral/Theme: The Man and His Two Wives; Moral: Trying to please everyone can lead to losing everything.
  • Plot Summary: In a time when men could have multiple wives, a middle-aged man found himself caught between the desires of his two wives—one young and one old. Each wanted him to look a certain way, leading him to a point where he ultimately lost all his hair while trying to appease both.
  • Key Characters and Their Significance:
    • The Man: Represents the struggle of trying to please multiple parties.
    • The Young Wife: Symbolizes youthful desires and superficial aesthetics.
    • The Old Wife: Represents traditional values and the wisdom that comes with age.

LESSON FUNDAMENTALS

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Students will analyze the moral of the story and its relevance to real-life situations.
    • Students will identify character motivations and their effects on the narrative.
    • Students will discuss the implications of trying to please everyone.
    • Students will create their own short moral stories inspired by 'The Man and His Two Wives'.
  • Discussion Questions:
    1. What do you think was the man's biggest mistake in trying to please both wives?
    2. How can this story be related to modern-day situations in friendships or family dynamics?
    3. Can you think of a time when you tried to please everyone? What was the outcome?
  • Required Materials:
    • Copies of the story 'The Man and His Two Wives'
    • Whiteboard and markers
    • Paper and writing instruments for students