Examining Perspective in Language and Literature

Perspectives
in Language
and Literature

Objectives

RL.11-12.6: Analyze a case in
which a text’s meaning is not
clear and another
interpretation is possible.

Objective: By the end of this lesson, students should be able to analyze
the impact of varying narrative perspectives on the meaning and
interpretation of a literary text.

SL.11-12.1: Initiate and
participate effectively in a
range of collaborative
discussions (one-on-one, in
groups, and teacher-led) with
diverse partners on topics,
texts, and issues, building on
others’ ideas and expressing
their own clearly and
persuasively.

Objective: Students should be able to engage in group discussions to
present and discuss their findings about narrative perspectives and
their role in shaping interpretations of literary works.

Talk with a partner. Discuss what you think
Perspective is.

On the next slide, you will be writing what you and your
partner discussed.

What is “Perspective?”

Open Ended

What is 'Perspective?'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqz7UcCgbLA

Perspectives Video

Defining Perspectives
To begin, let's define what is meant by "perspectives" within the IB
context.

●Perspectives include the way people see and understand
the world. They are shaped by our viewpoints, attitudes, and
the way we see things.

●Perspectives are not universal truths. Instead, they are
subjective, personal interpretations influenced by our
culture, experiences, and the world around us.

Perspective is…

Talk with a partner. Discuss what you think
Subjective is.

On the next slide, you will be writing what you and your
partner discussed.

What is “Subjective?”

Open Ended

What is 'Subjective?'

Vocabulary

Perspective

the individual lenses through
which people observe and
interpret the world. It includes
their unique viewpoints,
attitudes, and personal
frames of reference,
influencing how they
understand and perceive everything around them.

Empathy

The ability to understand
and share the feelings of
another.

Objective

Information or analysis based
on facts and not influenced by
personal feelings or opinions.

Subjective

Information or analysis
influenced by personal feelings,
opinions, or experiences.

Why are these words significant when trying to understand the concept of Perspective?

Consider the definition of Perspective. Briefly explain how empathy is connected to perspective.

Why are these Vocabulary words important?

Open Ended

If Perspective means: the way people see and understand
the world'

What role does the word, 'empathy' play?

(How is it connected to the concept of Perspective?)

Perspective taking is a fundamental element that greatly influences the way
literature is crafted and, in turn, how readers interpret and engage with stories. It
plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and impacting the reader's
understanding. Here's how perspective taking affects literature and the reader's
interpretation of a story:

1. Multiple Narratives: Many stories employ multiple perspectives, allowing
readers to see events from different characters' viewpoints. This technique adds
depth to the narrative by presenting diverse experiences, thoughts, and emotions.
It enriches the storytelling and provides a more comprehensive understanding of
the plot.

The Impact of Perspective on Literature and Reader

Interpretation

2. Character Development: Through perspective taking, authors can delve deep
into a character's psyche. Readers gain insight into their inner thoughts, fears,
desires, and motivations. This enhances character development, making the
characters more relatable and complex.

3. Empathy and Connection: Perspective taking fosters empathy. Readers can put
themselves in a character's shoes, understanding their struggles and joys. This
connection with characters makes the story more engaging and emotionally
resonant. (If the reader doesn’t care about the characters, then the story will hold
no interest.) This connection can also teach the reader lessons that resonate in
their personal lives.

The Impact of Perspective on Literature and Reader

Interpretation

4. Unreliable Narrators: Some narratives feature unreliable narrators, characters
whose perspectives are skewed or unreliable. This creates intrigue and challenges
readers to question the truth. It adds layers of complexity to the story as readers
must decipher the real story behind the narrator's perspective.

5. Theme Exploration: Perspective taking allows authors to explore various
themes and ideas from different angles. It provides a well-rounded view of the
central themes, encouraging readers to consider different interpretations and
nuances.

The Impact of Perspective on Literature and Reader

Interpretation

Perspectives include the way people
see and understand the world. They are
shaped by our viewpoints, attitudes,
and the way we see things.

Lesson Review

01

Perspective

Trying to understand others
perspectives is an essential aspect of
empathy

02

Empathy

A reader’s perspective affects
how they interpret a story.

03

Perspective in Literature

In essence, perspective taking is a tool
that authors use to craft layered,
multifaceted narratives. It challenges
readers to step into the characters'
worlds, fostering empathy and deeper
connections. The varying viewpoints and
interpretation possibilities make literature
an ever-evolving and thought-provoking
realm, where readers are active
participants in the storytelling process.

Watch the short animated film. Think about the
different perspectives of each character. Afterwards,
we’ll fill out the graphic organizer (on paper) together.

Snack Attack

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38y_1EWIE9I

Look at the Following Video

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