51ºÚÁÏ

How do stories shape our understanding of the world and ourselves?

This lesson explores Act 3, Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet, focusing on the death of Mercutio and its impact on Romeo and the wider conflict between the Montagues and Capulets. Through discussion and analysis, students will examine themes of conflict, loyalty, and aggression while considering how this pivotal scene shifts the tone of the play from romance to tragedy.

• Full Lesson Plan – A structured guide with clear objectives and activities.
• Starter Task: The Penalty for Murder – Students discuss their views on the consequences of murder and compare historical and modern justice systems.
• Quick Quiz on Historical Consequences for Murder – Students guess which countries historically or currently apply capital punishment or life imprisonment.
• Act 3, Scene 1 Video Viewing – A performance of the scene to support comprehension.
• Close Reading Task – A 10-minute analysis, followed by a written summary of key events.
• Creative Rewriting Activity – Students rewrite part of the scene, considering:
  • How Mercutio’s personality affects the fight.
  • Whether to modernise the language or maintain Shakespeare’s style.
  • What happens if Mercutio does not die—how would that change the play?
  • How Romeo’s reaction influences later events.
  • How setting impacts the fight’s mood.
• Exit Task – Students complete two reflection tasks:
  1. Write a brief analysis of a major theme or character shift in the scene.
  2. Predict how Mercutio’s death will affect the rest of the play.

• Analysing the shift from romance to tragedy
• Exploring Shakespeare’s portrayal of conflict and loyalty
• Engaging in structured discussion and critical thinking
• Developing creative writing skills through scene adaptation

This lesson is ideal for GCSE English teachers looking to help students critically engage with one of the play’s most dramatic turning points.

Reminder: This lesson follows the Socratic Circle Workbook, available in Lesson 1. Find Lesson 1 and the full bundle in my TES resources for a structured approach to Romeo and Juliet.

Download now to guide students through Shakespeare’s exploration of honour, revenge, and tragic consequences.

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51ºÚÁÏ Notice: This resource is for personal classroom use only. Redistribution, resale, or uploading to shared platforms (including school drives and VLEs not for personal classroom use) is strictly prohibited. If you need additional licences, please purchase them separately. © 2024. Revolutionary Education. All rights reserved.