Frankenstein: An Abridged Text

Subject: English as an Additional Language
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11-14 and 14-16
Order Number: 5291

For students with special educational needs and/or those to whom English is not their first language. The story of Frankenstein is about a scientist. Victory Frankenstein, who becomes obsessed with the idea of creating a human being from dead body parts. He wants to create life. After a long period of study this is exactly what he does. The story goes on to describe events thereafter.

Texts written in the classical style can sometimes be difficult for students who do not use English as their first language, or who perhaps have special educational needs. This shortened version of the tale of Frankenstein and his creation is easier to read and absorb yet retains all the significant events, characters, and essential themes from the original, thus allowing students who use this resource to still be able to join in and contribute to discussions, (the writing style is ‘modern casual’.) The emotional states of the various characters at different times is also retained and described. Students reading through this version will become familiar with the plot, the characters and the ideas that Mary Shelley was putting forwards.

To test recall and understanding of the plot there are, at periodic intervals, exercises for the student to complete, which are varied enough to cater for a range of abilities and allow the teacher some flexibility. In places chapters have been grouped together to keep the momentum of the story moving along.

If you have students who are struggling with Shelley’s Classical style, you need this abridged version, which can be used by more students as an introduction to the tale. Where possible, guideline answers to the exercises are provided.

Many more Abridged Texts available - please ring for full list