Students undertake an examination of Afghan history and culture. They analyze the author’s style and study character development. The unit contains supplementary text analysis. Students have opportunities to incorporate role-play, debate, and research activities. They will conduct map analysis of various regions in the novel. 

Supplementary materials include a culminating test with answer key. This unit includes 10 Lesson Plans / 25 Handouts / 72 Pages, aligned to Common Core standards, grades 9-12, high school.

Literary Form

World Novel

21st-Century Skills

• Collaboration
• Critical thinking
• Productivity and accountability

Overview

The Kite Runner is set in modern Afghanistan and America. The plot centers on Amir’s problem of self-definition, a universal problem. His struggle throughout the novel for self-understanding and acceptance is the timeless journey of a hero and parallels the epic quest for home. In a sense, Amir’s inner conflict mirrors Afghanistan’s conflict; both struggle with finding an identity amidst rampant social unrest and pressures from outside sources.