William Shakespeare,
Othello
Lesson plans and other teaching resources
| For introductory, background and other resources, try Shakespeare and the Elizabethan Age . For links to other plays, try the Shakespeare Main Page. |
Teacher Guide to
The Tragedy of The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice
by William Shakespeare
How might students use storyboards to demonstrate and to extend their learning? Check the resources here. Includes plot diagram and summary, essential questions, character maps, Aristotelian elements of the tragic hero, themes, motifs and symbols, conflict analysis, vocabulary, more.
Note: Storyboard That helps sponsor this site.
60-Second Shakespeare
On this page, a tabloid-style summary of the play from the BBC. Follow links to learn how your students can produce something similar.
CliffsNotes
Othello
video
The play in a 7-minute cartoon updated for contemporary audiences. Includes introduction of major themes. A great pre-reading activity!
A Cultural Context for
Othello
This essay provides background information.
Images of Othello: A Shakespearean WebQuest
Students examine the text of the play, then use online resources to see what Othello has looked like in previous productions. They write an essay explaining the type of actor who should play Othello today. Adobe Reader or compatible application required for access to the handout.
Othello
Teaching guide, including summary, prereading, discussion questions, journal prompts, analysis and suggestions for performance, bibliography. This extensive teaching guide requires Adobe Reader or compatible application for access.
Othello
Reading strategies, including an anticipation guide, a biopoem, and a writing task.
Othello
Background, suggestions for writing about the play, and extensive analysis. Scroll to the bottom for sample essay questions.
Othello, the Moor of Venice
Plot summary, themes, discussion of irony, essay topics, more.
Othello
: ExxonMobil Masterpiece Theatre
Support materials for the updated version by Andrew Davies, set in London and featuring "New Scotland Yard in the era of race riots, neo-Nazis, and political spin." Scroll down for a link to teaching materials and other resources.
Othello
Paraphrasing Worksheet
Students practice putting Shakespearean language into their own words. Designed for grades 5-8. 77 pages; word processor required. Consider using the document digitally or downloading it and printing only what students will use.
Shakespeare's
Othello
and the Power of Language
Students explore the relationship between Iago's use of language and his ability to manipulate others. This unit includes short group performances, writing exercises, and the guided use of online dictionaries and concordances to study Shakespeare's language.
A Teacher's Guide for
The Merchant of Venice
and
Othello
Plot summary, pre-viewing activities, essay "On Race and Religion" and supporting activities, and a discussion of the difference a camera angle can make. These materials are provided by PBS as part of the ExxonMobil Masterpiece Theatre series.
That's Moor Like It!
Using resources available online from the New York Times, "students focus on the play
Othello
and its screen adaptation
O
to explore how modern adaptations of Shakespeare have the potential to both enhance the original text and detract from its meaning."