A very interesting project sponsored by the Washington Post on the roles and history of women in Afghanistan. This site is loaded with images, video documentary, and a great interviews.
You've probably seen this picture before. It is one of National Geographic's most famous images. But who is this Afghani girl? Where is she now? What does she look like today? See for yourself!
Video Background:
Enjoy this playlist of videos featuring interviews of the author, presentations on the history of Afghanistan, and more about the Kite Runner.
Research Activity for Students (Block 4):
Before we really begin our reading of The Kite Runner, we'll need to explore some of the background of the novel. This will help us better understand the context in which the actions of the story take place, giving us a richer understanding of the events of the novel. To do this, we'll be breaking into pairs to do research on some of the historical events presented in the story. Not only will partners research these topics, but you'll also be putting together a presentation/resource on your research topic which can be shared online. In this way, our class will always have your research to look back on in case we have a question about its importance to the story. So, let's begin!
Pashtuns and Pashtunwali
You will need to answer the following questions in your presentation:
Who are the Pashtuns?
What is Pashtunwali?
On what cultural values does the Pashtunwali code place most importance?
What does it mean to be an outsider in Afghan society? Why are people excluded? What does this exclusion look like?
Here is where you will find the answers to these questions:
This assignment will be worth 30 points. You will be graded on:
Content (10 pts): Includes the accuracy of your information and your thoroughness in addressing all of the guiding questions.
Presentation (10 pts): Includes all group members participating and having speaking time during the presentation. Presentation is prepared with text and visuals, any quoted information is accurately cited. The presentation materials have been thoroughly proof-read and spell checked.
Class Participation (5 pts): You are on task and focused during the class time, reading the articles and collaborating with your group members.
Preparation (5 pts): Someone from your group emails me (wardhhs@gmail.com) your well designed presentation materials by the end of class Friday.
Literary Criticism and The Kite Runner:
Linked below are student developed resources to help readers better understand the depth and complexities of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner. These pages were put together in conjunction with our study of literary criticism.
What do we know about the main characters? Click HERE to learn more about the main characters.
And here are some student produced resources for understanding the characters, motifs, and significant events in the story.
Learning More from Other Students:
Ms. Ward is not an expert in the history and culture of Afghanistan, so why not learn from someone who is? CLICK HERE to learn from other students also reading The Kite Runner and/or currently living in Afghanistan.
Extra Credit Opportunities:
Complete an independent project on the Middle East to earn up to 10 points of extra credit. Get the details HERE.
Resources for Teachers:
Teachers will find a bookmarked list of lesson plans and curriculum materials for teaching this novel HERE.
Comments (0)
You don't have permission to comment on this page.