Class: Senior Secondary School 2 (SS2 / SSS 2)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 1
Age: 16 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Literature in English
Curriculum Theme: Prose
Previous Lesson: .
Topic: Introduction to “FACELESS” by Amma Darko
Subject Matter: Meaning of the novel “Faceless”, background of the novelist, background and setting of the novel, plot and summary, themes and style

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

Define the meaning of the novel’s title, “Faceless”.
Describe the background of the novelist, Amma Darko.
Explain the background and setting of the novel.
Outline the plot and summary of the novel.
Identify key themes and stylistic features in “Faceless”.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the social issues raised in the novel.
Show interest in reading and analyzing literary works.

Psychomotor Domain:

Discuss the main events and characters from the novel’s summary.
Analyze how the author presents different themes.

Participate in classroom discussions about the novel’s content.
Collaborate with peers to identify early themes in the text.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

Senior Secondary Schools Education Curriculum
State Unified Scheme of Work
Amma Darko, “Faceless”
Adeola, L. (2018). *New Standard Literature-in-English for Senior Secondary Schools*. University Press PLC.

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Copies of the novel “Faceless” by Amma Darko
Whiteboard/Blackboard
Markers/Chalk

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand the foundational aspects of the novel “Faceless” by Amma Darko. It provides them with the necessary context and initial understanding of the plot, characters, and themes, which is important for deeper literary analysis and appreciation of the work.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils are expected to have a basic understanding of literary terms such as novel, plot, theme, and setting, and have some experience in reading and summarizing stories.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

Introduction to “FACELESS” by Amma Darko

Meaning of the Novel “Faceless”

The title “Faceless” symbolizes the anonymity and dehumanization experienced by marginalized individuals, especially street children and victims of social injustice, in urban Ghana. These individuals are often overlooked by society, lacking identity, recognition, and protection.

Background of the Novelist: Amma Darko

Amma Darko is a Ghanaian novelist born in 1956 in Koforidua, Ghana. She studied in Ghana and Germany, and her works often address social issues, poverty, gender inequality, and the struggles of ordinary people in contemporary Ghanaian society. Her writing style is known for its realism and direct engagement with social problems.

Background and Setting of the Novel

The novel “Faceless” is set in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, specifically focusing on the impoverished areas and the harsh realities of street life. The story explores the social and economic conditions that lead to child neglect, abuse, and the breakdown of traditional family structures in modern Ghanaian society.

Plot and Summary of “Faceless”

“Faceless” tells the story of Fofo, a young girl who becomes a street child in Accra after a series of unfortunate events. She is searching for her lost sister, Maa Tsuru, who also disappeared into the streets. The narrative follows her journey and introduces other characters affected by poverty, abuse, and the challenges of survival. The story highlights the efforts of a journalist, Kabria, who investigates the plight of street children and tries to help Fofo, uncovering a dark world of exploitation and crime.

Themes in “Faceless”

The following are prominent themes in the novel:

Child Abuse and Neglect: The novel vividly portrays the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse suffered by street children.
Poverty and Urban Decay: It exposes the extreme poverty in Accra’s slums and the deteriorating social conditions.
Social Injustice: The story highlights the lack of justice and protection for the vulnerable in society.
Resilience and Survival: Characters like Fofo demonstrate remarkable strength and determination to survive despite their harsh circumstances.
Identity and Anonymity: The “faceless” nature of street children, who are stripped of their individuality and dignity.
Family Disintegration: The breakdown of family units and its impact on children.

Literary Style in “Faceless”

Amma Darko employs a realistic and straightforward narrative style in “Faceless”. Key features include:

Direct Language: The language is often simple and accessible, making the harsh realities clear.
Vivid Imagery: Darko uses strong descriptions to paint a clear picture of the settings and characters’ suffering.
Symbolism: The title itself is a key symbol, as are elements like the streets, representing both danger and a form of community.
Multiple Perspectives: The story is often told through different characters’ viewpoints, offering a comprehensive view of the issues.
Social Realism: The novel aims to depict society as it truly is, without idealization.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them if they have heard of the novel “Faceless” or its author, Amma Darko.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and share any prior knowledge they have.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the topic and their interest is piqued.

Step 2: Meaning of the Novel’s Title

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the literal and symbolic meaning of the title “Faceless” in the context of the novel’s themes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively and take notes on the explanation.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the significance of the novel’s title.

Step 3: Background of the Novelist

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Information Giving
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher provides a brief background of Amma Darko, including her nationality, other works, and common themes in her writing.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and note down important facts about the author.
Learning Point: Pupils gain insight into the author’s context and literary contributions.

Step 4: Background and Setting of the Novel

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Description
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher describes the geographical and social setting of “Faceless,” focusing on Accra and the conditions that shape the story.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the description and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the environment in which the novel’s events unfold.

Step 5: Plot and Summary of “Faceless”

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Narration/Summarization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides the pupils through a summary of the novel’s plot, highlighting key characters and major events.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, take notes, and discuss the main points of the plot.
Learning Point: Pupils grasp the overall storyline and central conflict of the novel.

Step 6: Introduction to Themes and Style

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher introduces some major themes and stylistic features of the novel, providing examples of how they are presented.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, contribute ideas, and identify early themes and stylistic elements.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the core analytical aspects of the novel.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

What does the title “Faceless” symbolize in the novel?
Mention two facts about the author, Amma Darko.
Describe the main setting of the novel “Faceless.”
Briefly outline the central conflict presented in the novel’s plot.
Identify two key themes explored in “Faceless.”

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the main points of the lesson and assigns pupils to read the first few chapters of “Faceless” before the next class.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and note down the assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their understanding and prepare for future lessons.

Lesson Keywords

Faceless – The title of the novel, symbolizing anonymity and marginalization.
Amma Darko – The Ghanaian author of the novel.
Accra – The primary setting of the novel.
Theme – A central idea or message in the novel.
Plot – The sequence of events in the story.

Differentiation

For pupils who are fast learners, the teacher can encourage them to research more about Ghanaian social issues or other works by Amma Darko. For those who need more support, the teacher will provide simplified summaries and focus on identifying key characters and events.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure that pupils have access to the novel or at least excerpts. Encourage active participation and create a safe space for discussing sensitive topics like child abuse, which are central to the novel. Emphasize the novel’s relevance to contemporary society.