Introducing a Dystopian World: The Hunger Games, Chapter 1
Entering a Dystopian World
Onderdelen in deze les
Entering a Dystopian World
What do you already know about dystopian societies?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will identify how Suzanne Collins introduces an oppressive society in Chapter 1 and find relevant evidence and key words.
What is a Dystopian Society?
A dystopian society is an imagined world where life is unfair, unhappy, or controlled by harsh rulers.
Key Dystopian Features
Flawed society, lack of freedom, powerful rulers, surveillance, propaganda, fear, rebellion, harsh setting, controlling tech, warning.
What Do You Notice First?
When reading, pay attention to what feels unfair or sad in the world of the story.
Chapter 1: First Impressions
Katniss wakes up in a poor part of town. She’s hungry and worried for her family.
The Setting
Who is Katniss?
District 12 is grey, strict, and dangerous. The people have little freedom or food.
An Oppressive Environment
Collins describes the setting to show a harsh and hopeless world. Life is hard for normal people.
Let’s Find Some Key Evidence
Look for sentences or words that show unfairness or control in Chapter 1.
Evidence Examples
Key Words
She explains fences, guards, hunting for food, and fear of punishment.
Description
"electric fence", "starving", "Peacekeepers"
Spotting Dystopian Clues
The strict rules and fear in District 12 show it is not a free society.
Challenge: Key Words for Analysis
Find powerful words in the text that help you understand the society’s problems.
Setting as a Clue
Details about District 12’s environment hint at the wider problems in the country.
Reflect: Why Start This Way?
Why do you think Collins opens the book with these descriptions? What mood does it create?
Task: Collect Evidence
Task 1
Underline key words in your quotes that show the society’s problems.
Write down two quotes that show the world is unfair or controlled.
Task 2
Share and Discuss
Share your quotes and keywords with a partner. Did you find similar ideas?
Summary
Chapter 1 uses setting and key words to create a sense of a harsh and unfair world. You can spot dystopian clues by looking for signs of control and suffering.
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
