Frontloading the Text, Part II

I locate a list of memorable passages and copy the lines on large sheets of colored paper. Signet publishes a Shakespeare series that lists memorable lines at the back of the text. I do not identify the speaker or the location of the lines. I use magnets to mount the lines out of order on the chalkboard, and then I invite the students to discuss possible interpretations. We look for unusual vocabulary words and arcane language structures. In a short time the students are more accustomed to Shakespearean form and are ready to take on the apparently difficult language.

I refer to the copied lines while I do a second "storytelling" version of the plot. In addition, I outline the plot with a chart on the board, illustrating it with the memorable lines.

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