The Great Gatsby Movie Guide (2013): Teach Theme, Symbolism, and Character Contradictions

The Great Gatsby is a gift to ELA teachers because the film makes symbolism unavoidable—color, music, parties, money, spectacle. The challenge is keeping students from stopping at “wow, that was crazy” and moving them into evidence-based interpretation.

Recommended resource (ready to use): The Great Gatsby Movie Guide | Questions | Worksheet (PG13 – 2013)

What students should be able to do by the end

• Explain how Gatsby constructs an identity—and why it fails.
• Track a theme (illusion vs. reality, class, obsession) using scene evidence.
• Interpret recurring symbols (green light, parties, eyes, color) with reasoning—not vibes.

A practical viewing structure (no complicated prep)

Before viewing (10 minutes): Students pick one theme to “own” and define it in their own words. Then they create a prediction: How do you think this theme will show up visually?

During viewing: Pause 4–6 times for short checkpoints. Keep each checkpoint to one prompt that forces evidence and reasoning.

After viewing (one class period): Students write one claim-driven paragraph: Gatsby is tragic because __, and the film proves it by __.

Five “teacher-proof” prompts that generate real analysis

• Identity construction: What does Gatsby want others to believe—and what does the film show that contradicts it?
• Symbolism: Choose one recurring image. What does it represent, and how does it evolve?
• Nick as lens: When do we see events through Nick’s judgment (not just his narration)?
• Class critique: Who is protected by wealth, and who is disposable?
• Theme statement: Write a one-sentence theme and defend it with two scenes.

Differentiation (fast and invisible)

• Support: Provide a symbol bank (green light, billboard/eyes, party scenes, clothing/colors).
• Challenge: Require a counterclaim: “Some viewers might argue __, but the evidence shows __.”

Assessment that matches what you actually taught

• Option A (quick): Theme tracker + 1 paragraph.
• Option B (rigorous): Comparative mini-essay: novel’s thematic message vs. film’s message (where do they diverge?).

Grab the Great Gatsby Movie Guide here: https://www.k12movieguides.com/products/the-great-gatsby-movie-guide