Lesson flow
Opening Hook
Begin with a brief discussion about the importance of cleverness in achieving goals. Ask students if they can share a time when they had to be clever to solve a problem.
Story Exploration
Read "The Taken Hand" aloud to the class. Encourage students to visualize the characters and setting as the story unfolds. Discuss initial reactions and thoughts about the plot.
Analysis Exercises
Break the class into small groups to analyze character motivations. Each group will focus on one character (Successful Man of Business, Thief, or Philosopher) and discuss their role in the story. Groups will present their findings to the class.
Application/Reflection
Have students reflect on the moral of the story. Ask them to write a short paragraph on how they could apply the lesson of cleverness in their own lives.
Assessment Strategy
Conclude with
STORY OVERVIEW
- Title and Moral/Theme: The Taken Hand; The moral of the story is that sometimes, in order to achieve one's goals, one must employ cleverness and cunning rather than straightforward approaches.
- Plot Summary: A Successful Man of Business wishes to meet a Thief, but the Thief refuses to shake his hand. Seeking advice from a Philosopher, the Businessman employs a clever strategy to achieve his goal. By leaving his hand out, he tricks the Thief into taking it, demonstrating the power of wit over direct confrontation.
- Key Characters:
- Successful Man of Business: Represents ambition and the desire for connection, showcasing the lengths one will go for success.
- Thief: Symbolizes resistance and cunning, demonstrating that not all goals can be achieved through direct means.
- Philosopher: Acts as a guide, offering wisdom and strategy, highlighting the importance of clever thinking.
LESSON FUNDAMENTALS
- Learning Objectives:
- Students will understand the moral lesson of the story.
- Students will analyze character motivations and their significance in the plot.
- Students will discuss the effectiveness of clever strategies in problem-solving.
- Students will compare this story to other classic moral stories and identify common themes.
- Discussion Questions:
- What does the Thief's refusal to shake hands reveal about his character?
- How does the Successful Man of Business' strategy change the dynamic between him and the Thief?
- Can you think of a situation in your life where you had to employ cleverness to achieve your goals?
- Required Materials:
- Printed copies of "The Taken Hand"
- Whiteboard and markers
- Discussion prompts
- Art supplies for extension activities
Original text available on the story page.