Ishmael Lesson Plan

Mindwalk

Kind of Activity:

Classwide Discussion

Objective:

Students will compare the film Mindwalk to Ishmael, evaluating the strengths and limitations of films and books in presenting philosophical discussions.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.R.11-12.6; CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.11-121.C

Structure:

Show the film Mindwalk to students. In the film, three characters—a physicist, a poet, and a politician—discuss the need to change mankind’s view of the universe. After watching the film, engage in a group discussion about both the message of the film and the medium; then, compare these to Ishmael. Consider the following questions: What was the message(s) of the film? How is...