August Wilson‘s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “Fences,” is a compelling and emotionally charged exploration of family, race, and the American Dream. Teaching this classic piece of American drama can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its unique challenges. In this blog post, we will provide ten valuable tips for teachers looking to engage their students effectively when teaching “Fences.”
Top 10 Tips for Teaching August Wilson's "Fences"
1. Historical Context: Start by providing historical context. Set the stage by discussing the time period (the 1950s) and the civil rights movement’s backdrop. This helps students better understand the characters’ struggles and aspirations.
2. August Wilson‘s Legacy: Introduce your students to the renowned playwright, August Wilson. Discuss his impact on American theater, his commitment to representing the African American experience, and his ten-play cycle chronicling Black life in the United States.
3. Character Analysis: Encourage students to delve into character analysis. Explore the complexities of Troy Maxson, Rose, Cory, and other characters. Encourage students to consider their motivations, growth, and relationships.
4. Thematic Exploration: “Fences” touches on several essential themes, including race, family, dreams, and responsibilities. Engage students in discussions about these themes and how they intersect within the play.
5. Read Aloud and Analysis: Consider having students read sections of the play aloud in class. This interactive approach helps them understand the dialogue’s rhythm and emotional depth, fostering a deeper connection to the text.
6. Wilson’s Unique Language: Discuss August Wilson’s distinctive use of language, which reflects the richness of African American vernacular. Explore how his characters’ speech reflects their personalities and backgrounds.
7. Symbolism and Metaphor: Analyze the play’s symbolic elements and metaphors, such as the fence itself. Encourage students to think critically about the significance of the fence as a metaphor for the characters’ lives and aspirations.
8. Viewing Adaptations: If possible, watch a film adaptation of “Fences” or clips from a stage production. This visual component can provide valuable insights and help students visualize the characters and settings.
9. Critical Discussion: Promote critical thinking by encouraging students to discuss the choices and actions of the characters. Explore the moral dilemmas presented in the play and ask students to articulate their viewpoints.
10. Creative Projects: Assign creative projects that allow students to engage with “Fences” in a personal way. These projects can include writing monologues from the characters’ perspectives, creating visual representations of the play’s themes, or even rewriting scenes with alternative outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Teaching “Fences” by August Wilson offers a rich opportunity to explore American history, culture, and human relationships. By providing historical context, fostering character analysis, and encouraging critical discussions, educators can help students appreciate the depth and relevance of this powerful play. With these top 10 tips, you can create a meaningful and engaging learning experience that brings “Fences” to life in your classroom.
