T E A C H E R
’ S N O T E S A N D K E Y
April 2009
© Pearson Longman 2009
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S
TARTING OFF
This topic builds on the previous month’s topic (Leonardo da Vinci and the nature of greatness) but this time focuses on
people we admire in a more subjective way. The initial discussion introduces the concept of heroism and invites the
students to consider what it is to be a hero; ideally they would do this in abstract terms, without reference to particular
individuals, but it may be necessary for them to use examples to explain their thoughts. Possible key:
Dempsey suggests that being a hero is about never giving up, even if something is impossible.
Emerson suggests that heroism is about perseverance
Eco suggests that true heroism is unplanned and accidental
Twain suggests that heroism comes from ambition and a desire to better yourself
B
EFORE YOU READ
The matching task should be fairly straightforward, but thinking about what the quotes tell us about Darrow will not be
easy and will probably be best done in open class where you can direct as required.
Key:
When I was a boy I was told anyone c
ould be president; now I’m beginning to believe it [distrust of titles
and power]
The first half of our lives is ruined by our parents and the second by our children [a cynical sense of
humour]
Just think of the tragedy of teaching children not to doubt [a belief in the importance of scepticism]
History repeats itself, that’s one of the things wrong with it [a belief that man fails to learn from their
mistakes]
If you lose the power to laugh you lose the power to think [humour - satire, irreverence - is the key to
knowledge]
F
IRST READING
Though only a gist task, this is key to the whole lesson. It is vital that the students understand the nature of the text -
that it is an opinion piece, subjective and inviting the reader’s opinion. Key:
subjective
positive
to convince
S
ECOND READING
Though only a gist task, this is key to the whole lesson. It is vital that the students understand the nature of the text -
that it is an opinion piece, subjective and inviting the reader’s opinion. Key:
A. Darrow’s dishevelled
appearance
B. The scales of justice:
Darrow’s career in law
C. Darrow and William Jennings
Bryan at the Scopes Trial
