THE SOWER

 E-Content Lesson Plan – Class 8

Poem: The Sower (by Victor Hugo, translated by Toru Dutt)

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Title: The Sower – A Symbol of Hard Work and Determination

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

Understand the meaning and theme of the poem.

Appreciate the poet’s admiration for the sower.

Identify and analyze poetic devices used in the poem.

Develop respect for labor and perseverance.

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Introduction:

Show an image of a farmer sowing seeds in a vast field.

Ask: "Why do farmers continue to sow seeds despite uncertainties?"

Explain that the poem describes a hardworking sower who works with dedication, symbolizing perseverance and hope.

Introduce Toru Dutt, an important Indian poet, and her translation of Victor Hugo’s poem.

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Learning Material:

Text:

Display the poem with key lines highlighted.

Provide a glossary of difficult words.

Explain the poem stanza by stanza in simple language.

Image:

A painting or illustration of a sower at work.

A sunset scene, as described in the poem.

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Subtopics & Text Matter:

1. Summary of the Poem

The speaker observes a lonely sower working tirelessly.

Despite the approaching night, the sower continues his work with determination.

The poet is inspired by his dedication and sees him as a figure of wisdom and perseverance.

2. Themes of the Poem

Hard Work & Dedication: The sower’s perseverance is admirable.

Respect for Labor: The poet highlights the dignity of a farmer’s work.

Man & Nature: The setting sun and the sower create a deep connection between human effort and the natural world.

3. Poetic Devices Used

Imagery: "The toil-worn frame, the old, old man" (Visual representation of the sower).

Alliteration: "His silhouette is black and high."

Personification: "The deepening dusk grows darker still."

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Conclusion:

The poem teaches us that hard work and persistence lead to success.

The sower is a powerful symbol of dedication and patience.

The poet’s admiration reminds us to respect the efforts of laborers in society.

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Review:

Who is the central figure in the poem?

Why does the poet admire the sower?

What does the sower symbolize?

Identify two poetic devices in the poem and explain them.

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Follow-up Activity:

1. Creative Writing:

Write a diary entry from the perspective of the sower, describing his thoughts and feelings.

2. Drawing/Painting Activity:

Illustrate a scene from the poem, showing the sower at work under the evening sky.

3. Discussion:

Why is farming an essential profession?

How does patience and hard work help us achieve success in life?