#1442. Robert Browning poems ESL/EFL

Language, level: all
Posted Sun Dec 12 17:52:00 PST 1999 by Laurie's Education and Resource Network, Inc (canaan@telusplanet.net).
Robert Browning poems
Laurie's Education and Resource Network, Inc, edmonton canada
Materials Required: none
Activity Time: 120 min
Concepts Taught: Problematic vocabulary

This document is accompanied by a 'trailer', or a preliminary study of the document:

A synopsis of the basic plot structure
Character sketches and relationships
Theme
Basic conflicts and their resolution
Mood/atmosphere
Setting
Problematic vocabulary
And a sound file in MP3 format or RealAudio with the complete original
text

Extended Readings include follow up comprehension activities, involving
language specific learning:

What's in an Idiom? A study of idioms encountered in the reading.
The Slang Game A look at any slang used in the text.
A Word by any Other Name Exercises using the problematic/unusual
vocabulary in the text.
Funny or Not? Humor in Focus If the text uses humor, a study looks at
how/why something is funny.
Culture Cachet A look at the culture inherent in the language.

All Extended Readings also include final tests, of which there are two. One test
focuses on the modalities of reading and writing, while the other nurtures the skills of
listening and speaking. Further, Extended Readings are accompanied by a list of
suggested projects or activities that students could do to complete their literary
experience.

MY LAST DUCHESS

A dramatic monologue in which the speaker, the
Duke of Ferrara, who, while negotiating a
marriage with the daughter of a count, points out
to the count's agent a portrait of his former wife,
his 'last duchess'. As he speaks about her, it is
intimated that he arranged for her murder as she
didn't properly appreciate the honor he had
bestowed upon her by marrying her.