Teacher: Saman Ihsan

Animal Farm ( Grade 7/8)

A 7‑Week Critical Reading & Writing Course for Grade 9 Preparation

Through close reading, guided discussions, and focused writing practice, students will develop a strong understanding of Animal Farm and the historical and political ideas it represents.

About the Novel

Animal Farm is a political allegory written by George Orwell and published in 1945. On the surface, it tells the story of farm animals who overthrow their human farmer in hopes of creating a fair and equal society. Beneath this storyline, the novel serves as a powerful commentary on the Russian Revolution, totalitarianism, propaganda, and the corruption of power.

Through characters such as Napoleon, Snowball, Boxer, and Squealer, Orwell illustrates how ideals can be manipulated and how leaders can exploit fear and misinformation. The novel’s themes remain deeply relevant today, offering students valuable insight into leadership, justice, and human behaviour.

Course Objectives

• Understanding Allegory: Students explore how Animal Farm functions as an allegory, connecting characters and events to real historical figures and political movements.

• Plot Summary & Key Events: Students track major events in the novel and examine how the storyline reflects the rise and corruption of power.

• Themes: Students analyze central themes such as power, control, propaganda, leadership, and human nature.

• Historical Context: Students learn about the Russian Revolution and Soviet totalitarianism to understand the novel’s deeper meaning.

• Literary Techniques: Students study Orwell’s use of symbolism, irony, satire, and characterization to convey political messages.

• Critical Analysis & Interpretation: Students develop their ability to interpret the text, evaluate author choices, and form thoughtful arguments.

• Relevance to Modern Society: Students discuss how the novel’s warnings about power and corruption continue to apply today.

• Focused Paragraph Writing: Students practice writing clear, well‑structured analytical paragraphs using evidence from the text.

• Note‑Taking Skills: Students learn to record key ideas, track important events, and organize information effectively to support deeper comprehension and discussion.

*Please note the following date will be a public holiday: March 29th, 2027

Refund Policy

If you choose to withdraw from the course, please see below:

March 10th:  90% refund

March 20th: 50% refund

After the first class:  50% credit or 25% refund