East of Eden Lesson Plan

Dramatis Personae

Kind of Activity:

Group Discussion

Objective:

Students will begin to fill out a character map of the novel's main characters.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.3

Structure:

East of Eden has many characters, both major and minor. Today's reading introduces us to many of its primary characters, including Adam Trask and Cathy Ames. As the novel's scope expands and new generations are born, so too will its roster of characters. It may be difficult to remember who is who at first, so, for this activity, students will create a character map to make the process easier. In small groups, students will list out the characters we meet in...