Lesson 1 (from "The Flats Road")
"The Flats Road"
"The Flats Road" skillfully sets up all the elements of this story. The objective of this lesson is to explore the fictional elements of the story and this particular style of a short story novel.
Lead the class in a discussion of the elements of fiction. What elements does this chapter include? What elements, if any, are missing? Have the students discuss the elements that the author has established. How good is she at fleshing out the framework of necessary elements for a piece of fiction? Do they see any similarities to anything else they have read recently? What is the nature of a short story novel such as LIVES OF GIRLS AND WOMEN? Why did Munro decide to write her novel in this format?
Divide the class into small groups and have them research other short story novels. Have them choose...
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