German Lesson Plan

Introduction: Introduce your students to the powerful and provocative world of "Blechtrommel" (The Tin Drum) with our comprehensive German lesson plan. Directed by Volker Schlöndorff, this film explores themes of resistance, innocence, and the horrors of war, making it an excellent tool for language learning and cultural exploration.

Film Summary: "The Tin Drum" is an allegorical tale of Oskar Matzerath, a boy who decides to stop growing at the age of three in protest against the adult world's corruption and madness. Set during the rise of the Nazis in Germany, Oskar expresses his dissent by incessantly banging on his tin drum and shattering glass with his piercing scream. His refusal to conform and his symbolic acts of rebellion highlight the tumultuous period of German history. The film stars David Bennent, Mario Adorf, and Angela Winkler.

Suggested Dates for Classroom Use:

• May 3: Günter Grass's Birthday, celebrating the author of the novel "Die Blechtrommel" and discussing his influence on German literature and the film adaptation
• May 14: Cannes Film Festival, reflecting on the film's win of the Palme d'Or in 1979 and its impact on international cinema
• September 22: Volker Schlöndorff's Birthday, celebrating the director’s achievements and his role in bringing "Die Blechtrommel" to the screen
• April 9: Academy Awards Ceremony, discussing the film’s win for Best Foreign Language Film in 1980 and its significance in film history

Conclusion: Using "Blechtrommel" in your classroom enhances language skills while providing insights into themes of resistance, innocence, and the impact of war. This lesson plan includes structured activities, discussion questions, and cultural notes to enrich the learning experience. Explore our comprehensive film-based lesson plans and engage your students in meaningful ways. IMDB

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