Moby Dick Lesson Plan

What's In A Doubloon?

Kind of Activity:

Classwide Discussion

Objective:

Students will discuss the significance one of the novel's major symbols holds for each character.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.1

Structure:

Although somewhat contrived, chapter 99 includes a scene in which each of the novel's main characters pass around Ahab's golden doubloon and think about what it means to them. Although the prospect of winning the doubloon is almost certainly appealing to most of these men, the reader may find more interest in what it symbolizes to them.

Use this scene in chapter 99 to frame a larger discussion about these characters. Begin by having...