Statement of Inquiry

Investigating the power dynamics within

1984's context and themes reveals how
control shapes societies and individual
identities.
 Inquiry Questions
Factual questions:
What are the three main methods the Party uses to maintain control over the citizens in 1984?
Who is Big Brother, and what is his significance in the society of 1984?

Conceptual questions
In what ways does the control of information by the Party in 1984 reflect broader concerns about power and
truth in society?
What role does fear play in maintaining power in 1984, and how can this be seen in contemporary
societies?

Debatable questions
Is it ever justified for a government to use surveillance to control its citizens' actions and thoughts for
national security?

Does language shape thought? Can controlling language control the way people think and behave, as
suggested by Newspeak in 1984?
Should individuals sacrifice some personal freedoms in exchange for security and stability, as depicted in
the society of 1984?
Is the pursuit of absolute truth always more valuable than maintaining social harmony, considering the
context of 1984?
Is it ethical to rewrite history if it serves the greater good, as practiced by the Party in 1984?
Key Concepts: Power

Related Concepts: Context, Theme

Global Context: Globalization and Sustainability

Learner Profile Attribute: Principled

Global Context: Globalization and sustainability

Learning Goals:
● Knowledge and Understanding
● Develop an understanding of relationships between texts and a variety of perspectives,
cultural contexts, and local and global issues and an appreciation of how they contribute to
diverse responses and open up multiple meanings.
● Communicating and evaluating
● Communicate and collaborate in a confident and creative way, fostering lifelong interest in
and enjoyment of language and literature.
 Action:

Engage: What can you apply to

your follow up task?
Is there any advice from
Reflection: anyone else that you can Develop your
take? Presentation Task 1. Be
What were my strengths prepared to teach others.
and weaknesses on the Read the other post-its
diagnostic? and take note of feedback
that fits your grade.
Write your overall grade
on the post-it. Then, write
down one strength, and
one area for improvement
The person who made it Deduce the answer by
doesn’t want it. The person
who bought it doesn’t need it.
the process of
The person who needs it elimination.
doesn’t know it. What is it? Justify your theory to
your friend.
Determine the only
possible answer together.
The person who made it
doesn’t want it. The person
who bought it doesn’t need it.
The person who needs it
doesn’t know it.
 Action:

Engage: Time to present!

Am I confident I can Speak in a very loud

Reflection: present and be prepared voice. Your aim to be
to teach? understood.
What do I need to do to
complete the contextual Practice presenting in If you are in the audience,
task? groups. Include reflective put your laptops away
questions to pose to your and take notes!
Check the instructions on audience.
Toddle. Divide remaining
tasks in your group.
Compare product with
rubric.
 For the audience

Rules: Take notes on the following:

Laptops in you bag, off the The context, summary

table
Historical impact
Notebooks open, on the
table Impact on literature

Stay silent Reflections

Ask questions at the end Can you hear them?

Listen actively
What are your approaches to learning in this stage?

Communication skills
Negotiate ideas and knowledge with peers and teachers
Read critically and for comprehension

Reflection skills
Develop new skills, techniques and strategies for effective
learning
Consider ethical, cultural and environmental implications
How does the description of the “Victory Mansions” serve as a
reflection of the society presented in the novel?
How does the description of the “Victory Mansions” serve as a
reflection of the society presented in the novel?
● Answer: The irony in the name “Victory Mansions” reflects the
false promises and propaganda of the Party. Despite the grand
name, the building is run-down, symbolizing the disparity
between the Party’s rhetoric and the reality of life in Oceania. It
suggests that the society is built on lies and superficial
appearances.
The Party's slogan is introduced early: "War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery,
Ignorance is Strength." What do you think Orwell is trying to communicate
with these paradoxes?
The Party's slogan is introduced early: "War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, Ignorance is
Strength." What do you think Orwell is trying to communicate with these paradoxes?
● Answer: Orwell uses these paradoxical slogans to introduce the concept of doublethink,
where citizens are expected to accept contradictory ideas simultaneously. It reflects how the
Party manipulates and controls thought by distorting reality. The slogans also foreshadow the
oppressive nature of the regime, which uses these contradictions to maintain power.
Aims
● Advance in Mindset
● Reading targets - Group and personal
● Practice 3rd conditional, applied to 1984

Explore
Engage
● Share your 3rd conditional
● Critical Reading
alternative
Reflections
● Is it ever healthy to have
regrets?
If I had had the choice, I would have done it differently.

Should

Had
The following 4 slides show 30 C1+ words from the opening
chapters of Frankenstein.
Aureole
Definition: A radiant light or halo surrounding a figure, often used in a religious context.
Example: The saint was depicted with an aureole of light in the painting, symbolizing his holiness.

Mutable
Definition: Capable of change or alteration; prone to change.
Example: The mutable nature of public opinion can significantly impact political campaigns.

Myriad
Definition: A countless or extremely great number; diverse.
Example: The garden was filled with a myriad of flowers, each more vibrant than the last.

Labyrinthine
Definition: Like a labyrinth; intricate and confusing.
Example: The labyrinthine streets of the old city made it easy to get lost.

Vapid
Definition: Offering nothing that is stimulating or challenging; bland.
Example: The lecture was so vapid that several students struggled to stay awake.

Palpable
Definition: Able to be touched or felt; clear to the mind or plain to see.
Example: The tension in the room was palpable as everyone awaited the announcement.

Anodyne
Definition: Something that soothes or relieves pain; not likely to provoke dissent.
Example: The anodyne remarks from the speaker did little to address the audience's concerns.
Convoluted
Definition: Extremely complex and difficult to follow; twisted.
Example: The convoluted plot of the novel left many readers confused by the end.

Officious
Definition: Assertive of authority in an annoyingly domineering way, especially with regard to petty or trivial matters.
Example: The officious clerk insisted on reviewing every detail of my application, much to my frustration.

Lassitude
Definition: A state of physical or mental weariness; lack of energy.
Example: After working long hours, I was overcome with lassitude and needed a break.

Sanguine
Definition: Optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently bad or difficult situation.
Example: Despite the setbacks, her sanguine attitude inspired the team to keep pushing forward.

Nebulous
Definition: In the form of a cloud or haze; unclear or vague.
Example: His plans for the future remained nebulous, lacking any concrete details.

Urbane
Definition: Suave, courteous, and refined in manner; sophisticated.
Example: His urbane demeanor made him popular at social gatherings.

Inexorably
Definition: In a way that is impossible to stop or prevent; relentlessly.
Example: Time moves inexorably forward, regardless of our desires.
Demeanor
Definition: Outward behavior or bearing; mannerisms.
Example: Her calm demeanor during the crisis reassured everyone around her.

Abject
Definition: Extremely bad, unpleasant, and degrading; showing hopelessness or resignation.
Example: They lived in abject poverty, struggling to meet even their basic needs.

Interminable
Definition: Endless or seemingly endless; tiresomely protracted.
Example: The meeting felt interminable as discussions dragged on without resolution.

Fatuous
Definition: Silly and pointless; foolish.
Example: His fatuous comments during the debate only served to undermine his credibility.

Obeisant
Definition: Showing servile deference or respect; submissive.
Example: The obeisant servant bowed deeply before his master.

Prosaic
Definition: Lacking poetic beauty; commonplace or unromantic.
Example: Her prosaic description of the event failed to capture its excitement.

Inimical
Definition: Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly or hostile.
Example: The inimical relationship between the two countries hindered diplomatic progress.
Avaricious
Definition: Having an extreme greed for wealth or material gain.
Example: His avaricious nature drove him to make unethical business decisions.

Ossify
Definition: To turn into bone or bony tissue; become rigid or fixed in attitude or position.
Example: Over time, their once flexible ideas began to ossify into dogma.

Livid
Definition: Furiously angry; dark bluish-gray in color (as in bruising).
Example: She was livid when she discovered her colleague had taken credit for her work.

Malignant
Definition: Malevolent; very virulent or infectious (often used in medical contexts).
Example: The doctors diagnosed him with a malignant tumor that required immediate treatment.

Enunciate
Definition: To pronounce words clearly and distinctly; to express an idea clearly.
Example: It is important to enunciate your words during a presentation so that everyone can understand you.

Inequity
Definition: Lack of fairness or justice; an unjust act or situation.
Example: The report highlighted the inequity in access to education across different regions.

Heretic
Definition: A person holding an opinion at odds with what is generally accepted, especially in religious contexts.
Example: He was labeled a heretic for his radical views on theology that challenged traditional beliefs.

Cauterize
Definition: To burn a wound with a hot instrument to stop bleeding and prevent infection.
Example: The surgeon had to cauterize the wound to ensure it healed properly without excessive bleeding.

Abstruse
Definition: Difficult to understand; obscure and complex.
Example: The professor's lecture on quantum mechanics was so abstruse that many students struggled to grasp the concepts presented.
I once thought that I could change his
mind, but now I could see his opinions
were permanently _________.
Fill the gap (search in
the last 5 slides)
 SUMMATIVE EXAM, WRITTEN
Deadline: 22nd Oct, Tuesday
Read up to page 108 (end of chapter VI).

Prepare notes on the following:

A question associated with the following:

● How Orwell uses narrative techniques.

● The portrayal of Surveillance and Totalitarianism
● Impact on individual thought and freedom
● Winston´s internal struggle

- Quotes - Reference to literary devices.

In groups, prepare a 1-2 minute presentation on the literary
devices on the wall. Include the phrase itself, the definition, and
an example from 1984.

Produce a small poster. Use the whiteboard (not slides)

The Vocero/a and the Communications Committee will assist in

dividing the groups and allocating the phrases evenly.

Skills:
● Collaboration
● Organisation
● Communication
● Planning
 Choice

Read in preparation for 15th October evaluation. See

slide 22

Continue with you Mindset (Cambridgeone.org)

After the film…
 Expert groups
1. Write a definition of doublethink. Include the objective of doublethink.

2. Give an example of doublethink used in the book/film

3. Give an example doublethink you see in world around you

4. Why does the party want to eradicate love between citizens?

 Identify and analyze Orwell´s use narrative techniques to portray the effects of surveillance
and totalitarianism on Winston's internal struggle and individual thought.
1. "BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU." This phrase recurs throughout the novel, including in the early chapters, as posters of Big
Brother are everywhere. It symbolizes the Party's omnipresent surveillance, creating an environment of fear and control that
severely impacts Winston’s thoughts and actions.
Theme Supported: Surveillance, totalitarianism.
Narrative Technique: Imagery.
Page: 2
2. "The telescreen received and transmitted simultaneously. Any sound that Winston made, above the level of a very low
whisper, would be picked up by it; moreover, so long as he remained within the field of vision which the metal plaque
commanded, he could be seen as well as heard." The telescreen is an ever-present tool of surveillance, making it impossible for
Winston to act freely. His sense of internal struggle grows under the pressure of being constantly monitored.
Theme Supported: Surveillance, internal struggle.
Narrative Technique: Imagery, irony.
Page: 3
3. "To mark the paper was the decisive act. In small clumsy letters he wrote…." Winston’s act of writing in his secret diary
represents his attempt to maintain some degree of mental autonomy. The diary becomes a symbol of rebellion, but it also reflects
his deep fear and internal conflict.
Theme Supported: Internal struggle, individual thought.
Narrative Technique: Symbolism, irony.
Page: 7

Make a poster.
Highlight literary techniques!
Identify and analyze Orwell´s use narrative techniques to portray the effects of surveillance
and totalitarianism on Winston's internal struggle and individual thought.
4. "Winston had disliked her from the very first moment of seeing her. He knew the reason. It was because of the
atmosphere of hockey-fields and cold baths and community hikes and general clean-mindedness which she managed to
carry about with her." This passage describes Winston’s initial feelings toward Julia before he receives her note. His distrust of
her reflects his internal struggle, as he assumes she is aligned with the Party’s principles, a representation of everything he
despises.
Theme Supported: Internal struggle, individual thought.
Narrative Technique: Irony, imagery.
Page: 10

5. "His heart was thumping like a drum, but his face, from long habit, was probably expressionless." In this moment,
Winston realizes that he is being watched and that any sign of rebellion would be catastrophic. His outward appearance and inward
anxiety highlight the tension between individual thought and the totalitarian control that suppresses it.
Theme Supported: Surveillance, internal struggle.
Narrative Technique: Imagery, irony.
Page: 20

6. "For several seconds he was too stunned even to throw the incriminating thing into the memory hole." When Winston
receives the note from Julia, his initial reaction is one of shock and fear. This reaction underscores how deeply the Party's control
has affected his ability to think freely or trust his emotions, emphasizing his internal struggle.
Theme Supported: Internal struggle, individual thought.
Narrative Technique: irony.
Page: 108
Make a poster.
Highlight literary techniques!
Exploring literary devices in
1984.
Complete the worksheet (1)
analysing literary devices:
http://tiny.cc/76zpzz

Check your answers on the

answer sheet
Complete the worksheet (2)
analysing literary devices:
http://tiny.cc/kazpzz

Compare answers in groups.

Elements that enhance our understanding of Winston´s internal struggle.

The Telescreen
The telescreen is a tool of constant surveillance, observing Winston’s
every move and sound. This technology enforces the Party's control,
contributing to Winston’s growing sense of internal conflict as he struggles
to maintain personal autonomy.
Theme Supported: Surveillance, internal struggle.
Narrative Technique: Imagery, irony.
Elements that enhance our understanding of Winston´s internal struggle.

Winston’s Diary
Winston's act of writing in his diary is a symbol of rebellion, reflecting his
desire for freedom of thought. However, the constant fear of being caught
creates tension, highlighting his internal struggle between self-expression
and the fear of punishment.
Theme Supported: Internal struggle, individual thought.
Narrative Technique: Symbolism, irony.
Elements that enhance our understanding of Winston´s internal struggle.

Two Minutes Hate

The Two Minutes Hate demonstrates the Party's ability to control even the
emotions of its citizens. Winston finds himself caught up in the frenzy,
despite being aware of the manipulation. His participation underscores
the power of totalitarian control and his internal conflict.
Theme Supported: Totalitarianism, internal struggle.
Narrative Technique: Irony.
Elements that enhance our understanding of Winston´s internal struggle.

Winston’s Work at the Ministry of Truth

Winston’s role in altering historical records for the Party adds to his
internal conflict. He is fully aware that his work is perpetuating lies, which
deepens his sense of despair and helplessness under the regime's
control.
Theme Supported: Totalitarianism, internal struggle.
Narrative Technique: Irony, symbolism.
Elements that enhance our understanding of Winston´s internal struggle.

Winston’s Reaction to Julia’s Note

When Winston receives Julia’s "I love you" note, his initial reaction is
shock and fear, emphasizing how deeply the Party's control has affected
his ability to process emotion and trust others. This moment highlights the
tension between Winston’s desire for connection and his fear of being
caught.
Theme Supported: Internal struggle, individual thought.
Narrative Technique: Imagery, irony.
Part 1: Transfer notes from your
notebooks to annotations in your
copy of 1984.

Part 2: What is your target

on the study guide?
Aims
● Advance in Mindset
● Reading targets - Group and personal

Engage Explore
● Evaluate target and recalibra
● Critical Reading
Reflections
● Is it ever healthy to have
regrets?
Instructions:

1. Write an Original Ending: Reimagine the conclusion of 1984. Your ending should align with the novel's themes, tone, and character arcs.
Summative task
Consider whether your ending is bleak, redemptive, or leaves room for hope. Aim to keep the style consistent with Orwell's, while bringing your
unique interpretation.
2. Incorporate Literary Devices: Use a range of literary devices to enrich your ending. Ensure that your writing reflects the depth of Orwell's
original work. Choose devices that enhance the mood, highlight character emotions, and develop the themes. You should employ at least five
different literary devices in your story.
3. Annotate Your Literary Choices: As you write, add annotations (in the margins or as footnotes) explaining the purpose of each literary device
used. Mention the effect it has on the reader and how it contributes to the overall story. Here are examples of devices to consider:
○ Imagery: Describe vivid sensory details that bring the scene to life.
○ Foreshadowing: Hint at potential outcomes or themes, adding suspense.
○ Symbolism: Use symbols to deepen the meaning behind actions or settings.
○ Irony: Add complexity through contrast between expectation and reality.
○ Metaphor/Simile: Use comparisons to illustrate characters’ emotions or situations.
○ Anthropomorphism: Attribute human characteristics to non-human elements, like nature or objects.
○ Review Your Work: Read over your ending to check for consistency with Shelley's style and coherence with the novel's themes. Make
sure your annotations clearly highlight each literary device and explain how it enhances your alternative ending.
4. Review Your Work: Read over your ending to check for consistency with Orwell's style and coherence with the novel's themes. Make sure your
annotations clearly highlight each literary device and explain how it enhances your alternative ending.
5. Prepare for Discussion: Be ready to discuss your ending and annotations with the class. You’ll be asked to explain your creative decisions and