Ms. Salva's online Classroom
Short Stories Unit
This page can be used as it's own unit or each short story could be used as a supplementary text for another unit. Each short story was chosen for it's importance in the American literature cannon and their individual relationships to the reading, writing and communication skills high school students need.
"The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a first person narrative of a young, depressed wife who has been confined to a run down room by her physician husband, thinking she only needs rest to cure her downward spiral. This lesson focuses on gender roles in society, both past and present as well as making inferences and drawing conclusions.
"A Perfect Day for Bananafish" by J.D. Salinger is the story of a soldier's friendship with a small child on a beach vacation. The protagonist, Seymour, practices childhood innocence before making a very shocking and adult decision. This lesson focuses on drawing conclusions, predictions, and making interpretations.
"The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson is the story of a small town with a large tradition. The ending is one of the biggest plot twists in American short story cannon and offers great reactions for students. The lesson focuses on discussion, citing textual evidence, and the theme of tradition.
"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry is a classic piece of literature that is a great example of plot structure and irony. This lesson expands on both these skills and introduces new vocabulary.