Students will identify the types of conflict found in "The Interlopers" and create a story that uses three out of the four types of conflict identified.

Students will:

1. Identify conflict within a short story
2. Brainstorm situations for the four types of conflict
3. Work independently to create a story that uses at least three types of conflict

Directions

1. Write the word "conflict" inside of a circle on the board. Ask students to give you words that they think of when they hear the word conflict and write those words around conflict.
2. Explain that conflict is a struggle between at least opposing forces. Identify two types of conflict and write them on the board as you define each type.

• Internal– an inside conflict
  • man v/s self 
  • For example: a hungry girl is debating whether or not to steal a candy bar from the store.
• External– an outside conflict
  • Man v/s man 
  • For example: two students get into a fight over a basketball in gym class.
  • Man v/s group  
  • For example: Tyrone's family doesn't like Charmaine because she's not from a rich family, so they belittle her every chance they get.
  • Man v/s nature 
  • For example:  a man fights against heavy winds but is swept away in a tornado.

Pair students and ask them to write down which types of conflict apply to "The Interlopers."  Have them explain using proof from the text. In those same pairs, ask students to create short scenarios, like the examples given above, for each of the types of conflict. Allow volunteer pairs to share a few scenarios with the class. Have students work independently to write a three-page story that involves at least three of the various types of conflict you discussed.

Supporting All Learners

For advanced learners, have students compare and contrast conflicts in two different texts with higher levels of difficulty or make their stories more difficult by setting more specific parameters in terms of pages and use of other literary terms that have been covered.

Home Connection

Watch your favorite TV shows and be ready to explain the types of conflicts used and how they were resolved. Ask people who live with you to explain any conflicts that they've had lately and then identify which type of conflict it is.

Assignments

1. Define the two types of conflict.
2. Identify conflict in a short story.
3. Create examples of conflict.
4. Create a conflict-filled story.

Evaluation

• How well did you explain conflict?
• Will your students be able to identify the various types of conflict in another text without you giving them any hints?