Introducing the context of 'Oliver Twist'
I can understand the context of 'Oliver Twist'.
Introducing the context of 'Oliver Twist'
I can understand the context of 'Oliver Twist'.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Oliver Twist is set in Victorian England.
- Charles Dickens is a key author for our cultural heritage; ‘Oliver Twist’ is considered a children’s literature classic.
- During Victorian England, there was widespread poverty and living conditions for the poor were harsh.
- Dickens’ early experiences influenced his writing and made him care about injustice.
- Adapting a text can mean changing some parts of the story based on the target audience and new format.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that life for all Victorians was positive.
Depending on social class, life was very different. There was a big divide between rich and poor, with many people living in poverty.
Keywords
Adaptation - An adaptation is when an original story has been changed to fit into a different form or format.
Workhouse - A workhouse in Victorian society was a harsh place where poor people, including children, had to work hard in exchange for food and shelter.
Injustice - Injustice is when people don't get the same rights, opportunities or treatment as others, even though they should.
Impression - An impression refers to initial feelings about a person, place or thing, gained from reading a text.
Equipment
You need a copy of the 2014 Oxford University Press edition of ‘Oliver Twist’ written by Geraldine McCaughrean, illustrated by Jeff Anderson, for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
poor
sad
hate
Exit quiz
6 Questions
when an original story has been changed to fit a different form
a harsh place where poor people, including children, had to work hard
when people don't get the same rights or treatment as others