Unit Study: Exploring Tolkien's World: The Hobbit- A 10-Week Unit Study
In this 10-week progressive study, they will read the book, learn vocabulary, literature components, complete papers, projects, and more.
Course Summary
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is one of the most beloved fantasy stories ever written, and in this 10-week self-paced course, learners will journey alongside Bilbo Baggins as he leaves his quiet hobbit hole for a world of trolls, goblins, elves, dragons, and treasure.
Designed for high school students ages 14–18, this class blends literary analysis, vocabulary building, and creative projects while still honoring the humor and adventure that make The Hobbit a classic.
What will be taught?
This course uses an 80-page student workbook that provides summaries, comprehension questions, vocabulary practice, and literary skill exercises. Learners will move chapter by chapter through the book, exploring themes such as bravery, greed, friendship, and luck. They will strengthen vocabulary, answer comprehension checks, and study literary devices including point of view, foreshadowing, personification, similes, and motifs.
Beyond comprehension, students will sharpen critical thinking skills by comparing the novel to the first film in The Hobbit trilogy and by analyzing Tolkien’s influence on the fantasy genre. What topics will you cover? Vocabulary building (24 core words plus chapter-specific terms) Chapter-by-chapter comprehension (summaries, short answer, true/false, multiple choice)
Literary devices: plot, setting, figurative language, character growth, theme, motif Thematic exploration: courage, corruption, hospitality, loyalty, greed, luck Character studies of Bilbo, Thorin, Gandalf, and others Movie vs. book comparison (An Unexpected Journey) – learners must watch the film independently Final comprehension test and creative/analytical projects
How is the class structured? The course is divided into 20 lessons across 10 weeks. Each lesson includes: Pre-recorded video instruction with slides and visuals Reading assignments with guided workbook activities Vocabulary and literary device practice A short comprehension check or activity (crossword, quiz, or writing prompt) Learners progress at their own pace but should plan to complete two lessons each week. The final week includes review, a comprehension test, and a project presentation.
How will you teach? I provide recorded lectures, annotated slides, guided workbook prompts, and interactive practice activities. Learners watch the lessons, complete the workbook, and upload their work for teacher feedback. Video clips and project instructions are included, but students are responsible for watching the film adaptation independently.
What’s your teaching style? My teaching style is interactive and student-centered even in a self-paced setting. I use humor, visuals, and guided questioning in my recordings, and I provide clear instructions for activities that encourage reflection and creativity. Students will receive feedback on written responses and final projects, so they know their ideas are valued.
How much will learners interact with me? Although this is a self-paced class, learners will interact with me by:
Submitting assignments for written feedback
Sharing project work for teacher comments
Asking questions through the messaging system
Final Project Options:
Learners will choose between one of three projects given during this 10-week course.
Parental Guidance:
The Hobbit contains fantasy violence (trolls eating people, goblin battles, giant spiders, dragon fire) and themes of war, greed, and corruption. These are suspenseful but not graphically described. Some characters (e.g., Gollum, Smaug) may be frightening to sensitive readers. No profanity or sexual content is included. Parents should be aware that temptation, power, and death are themes in the book, though presented at a teen-appropriate level.
*Materials Required:
A personal copy of The Hobbit (required for copyright reasons)
Access to the first Hobbit film (An Unexpected Journey) for comparison.
By the end of this course, learners will not only have read The Hobbit but will also have gained stronger analytical tools, a richer vocabulary, and the confidence to discuss literature critically while enjoying Tolkien’s world of Middle-earth.
Course Curriculum
Natalie Brobst
Hi! I'm Natalie, a mom of four who homeschools 3 of her children. As of now (2025), this is our 7th year of homeschooling. I have a B.S. in Education and have been teaching since 2010. I love my Jesus, family, church, coffee, and cats and chickens.
Course Pricing
Bi-Weekly Payment- 3 Payments
3 payments of
$50 USD
every 2 weeks
-
Pay $50 every other week.
