Walden Lesson Plan

House Rules

Kind of Activity:

Creative Writing

Objective:

Students will consider the motto in Thoreau's cabin and create a motto for their homes or rooms that expresses their hopes for visitors.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.1

Structure:

Point to the motto, drawn from the work of Edmond Spencer, that Thoreau hangs in his cabin. Discuss with the class the meaning of the quote and what they think it meant for Thoreau's expectations of visitors.

Brainstorm with the class other mottos people often hang in their homes: "Home, Sweet Home;" "Home is Where the Heart is;" "Welcome." Ask students to research others and compile these as a list using a...