Modern Connections

This reflective analysis worksheet is designed for Grades 9-12 and helps students explore the continued relevance of Death of a Salesman by connecting its major themes-the American Dream and family pressures-to contemporary society. Students complete a comparison chart that pairs examples from the play with modern-day parallels they identify from real life, media, or current events. Reflection questions then ask students to evaluate how these themes operate today and which one creates greater struggles for people now, encouraging thoughtful, evidence-based reflection.

Learning Goals

• Text-to-World Analysis (Secondary ELA) – Connect literary themes to modern social and cultural contexts
• Theme Evaluation – Analyze how ideas from the play continue to influence behavior and expectations
• Critical Reflection – Evaluate which themes have the most impact on contemporary life
• Analytical Writing – Express reasoned opinions supported by examples

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Aligned with high school ELA standards for analysis and reflection
• Relevance-Focused – Helps students see why Miller’s play still matters today
• Structured Comparison – Chart format supports clear organization and thoughtful connections
• Encourages Student Voice – Invites personal insight and critical judgment
• Flexible Use – Ideal for novel units, discussion prep, formative assessment, or extension work
• Low Prep – Print-and-use worksheet with clear prompts and guided reflection space

This modern connections worksheet helps students move beyond historical context to examine how Death of a Salesman speaks to present-day issues of success, pressure, and family expectations. By comparing the play’s themes to today’s realities, learners deepen their understanding of Miller’s message and strengthen their ability to apply literary analysis to the world around them.

This worksheet is part of our Death of a Salesman Worksheets collection.