Group Four

Final Reflection

2008-04-24T09:16:00.002-04:00

To Kill a Mockingbird is just one of many great pieces of literature. I hope all of you found this experience to be enjoyable. Now that all of you have read the book, I recommend you watch the movie starring Gregory Peck. It's fun to see the characters in real life. Thank you to everyone who participated, it was fun reading this book with all of you. I hope the rest of your school year goes well, good luck, and have a great summer!

Reflection

2008-04-21T08:40:00.002-04:00

I can't believe our experience is over! I consider myself lucky to have shared the experience of reading and discussing To Kill a Mockingbird, a classic piece of literature, with you these past few weeks. We have explored character development, symbolism and significance, plot progression and insights into the significance of events and statements. Your comments have been thoughtful and well developed; I always enjoyed reading what you had to say. I hope that your interaction with the book, and with me, have been inspiring and I hope that you continue to read, question, explore and share your knowledge as you grow and experience new books. Reflect once more on To Kill a Mockingbird and think back to your favorite part or your favorite character; keep that close to you and do the same with the next book you read. Build a library of personal literature experiences and enjoy reading!!

Final reflective thoughts

2008-04-20T22:39:00.003-04:00

I hope you all enjoyed reading this book as much as I did. I read it in high school, but I think now being a little older I can appreciate it more. I thought this book was entertaining, I think the way Harper Lee described Scout, Jem, and Dill was great! They were such fun kids and very funny! The character of Atticus really affected me. I think he was portrayed so well, it really makes me think about the type of person we should all try to be like. This book depicts racism and prejudice, and the perseverence of a man who risked it all to stand up for what he believed in. I truly believe it is a book that everyone should read at least once in their life!

Final Thoughts

2008-04-20T20:17:00.000-04:00

I really enjoyed reading the book, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” This was the first time I have read this book. I enjoyed the way the author drew you into the roles of the characters’ lives, especially the character Scout. This book reminded me about how the events in adults’ lives have such a strong impact on the lives of children. It makes me think of my own child who will be born soon, and what may take place in this day and age that will greatly impact her life. It has been great sharing this piece of classical literature with all of you and I hope you have a great remainder of the year!

Final Thoughts on the Story

2008-04-20T17:23:00.002-04:00

This is the first time that I have ever read To Kill a Mockingbird. I found it to be a very enjoyable story. I liked that it took place in a small town and had characters similar to people in the small town where I grew up. I also liked the ending, in which Jem, Atticus, and Scout continued to live their lives, because, after any tragedy, this is what we all must do. I think that what happened to Tom Robinson was a tragedy, and I am glad that nothing like this would ever happen today. I think that we have come a long way since the time of this story, and I hope that we will continue to grow!

Overall reflection

2008-04-20T11:43:00.002-04:00

This is one of the most classic books in American literature. I really enjoyed reading it, because it is well-written, interesting, and thought-provoking. I have read this book before in high school, and I was happy to see that we were using it in class as one of our literature choices. Atticus and Scout are my favorite characters. Scout grows up throughout the book and we witness this as we read. Atticus is a good man because of his intelligence and maturity. He models appropriate behavior and lets the children know that racism is disgusting and distasteful.

2008-04-20T10:47:00.002-04:00

This was my first time reading this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, although at times it was a difficult read. The author drew you into each character's personality. This story was from the point of view of a little girl. It makes you realize that children observe their environment so intently and how it affects then for the rest of their lives. The story deals with so many real life issues such as death, racism, neighbors, gossipping, family, and school. It was hard to put the book down at times because of the intensity of the story line. I can't help wondering what happens next in the life of Scout and Dill, what Jem's occupation will be, how long does Alexandra stay with them, etc. I guess that is what imagination is for.

Final Reflection

2008-04-17T20:49:00.002-04:00

I really enjoyed reading "To Kill a Mockingbird." I thought it did a great job of capturing the time period and the prejudices people faced. Scout was probably my favorite character. I thought a lot of the things she said and did were funny and she was definitely wise beyond her years. I found that all the kids in the story - Dill, Jem, Scout - were the voices of reason. I also found Atticus to be a very likeable character. Regardless of what others thought, I thought he was a great father. I think he taught Jem and Scout life lessons that will make them better people. He was an honorable man for doing his best to try and defend Tom Robinson. Overall I thought it was an interesting story that kept my attention plus made me think about the serious subject of racism.

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-14T00:07:00.002-04:00

Chapter 26
1) Why do you think Atticus said Jem needs to sort things out in his mind? What do you think he needs to sort out?

Chapter 27
2) What was Scouts part in the pageant?

Chapter 28
3) Who is your favorite character and why?

Chapter 29
4) How does Scout know that she is under the tree?

Chapter 30
5) Scout says that telling people Boo Radley committed the murder would have been "sort of like shootin' a mockingbird." What does that mean? Do you agree that Boo is like a mockingbird?

Chapter 31
6) In the last few lines of the book Scout says, "he was real nice..." and Atticus replies, "most people are, Scout, when you finally see them." Do you agree that most people in the novel are nice once you see them? How is Atticus able to see the good side of people despite all he has experienced? Can you?

2008-04-13T22:28:00.001-04:00

Chapter 26
Why is Scout confused when Miss Gates says she dislikes Hitler?

Chapter 27
Why did the grownups decide to have a Halloween pageant?

Chapter 28
In literature, we sometimes see connections between chapters, how does this chapter connect to earlier events?

Chapter 29
Compare the reasons Atticus and Heck Tate give for Ewell’s attack.

Chapter 30
Do you like how the author describes Boo Radley’s appearance at the end of the story?

Chapter 31
Why do you think Atticus chooses the story he reads to Scout?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-13T20:54:00.001-04:00

Chapter 26
Find the simile on page 243. What is being compared? Describe what this means.

Chapter 27
What was the connection between the Finches and the three things that happened to the citizens of Maycomb, as stated on page 248?

Chapter 28
Does it surprise you that Aunt Alexandra brings Scout her favorite pair of overalls to wear? Why do you think she does this?

Chapter 29
What do you think was Scout’s reaction when she realized Boo had saved her and Jem?

Chapter 30
Mr. Tate, Atticus, and Scout discuss Bob Ewell’s death. How do you think he died? Why?

Chapter 31
Describe Boo Radley’s actions in this chapter. Why do you think he wants Scout to walk him home?

Chapter 26-31 Questions

2008-04-13T20:35:00.001-04:00

Chapter 26

Scout makes an observation that Miss Gates is being hypocritical about her feelings on Hitler. What does this say about Scout? Why do you think Jem got so angry?

Chapter 27

Why do you think Aunt Alexandra stop in the middle of her sentence on p. 253? “…she stopped short in the middle of her sentence. She closed her mouth, then opened it to say something, but no words came.”

Chapter 28

There was a lot of confusion that went on as Bob Ewell was attacking Jem and Scout. Explain what you think happened.

Chapter 29

What made Scout realize that the man standing in the corner was Boo?

Chapter 30

What did Scout mean by “Well, it’d be sort of like shootin’ a mockingbird, wouldn’t it?”

Chapter 31

Scout: “…when they finally saw him, why he hadn’t done any of those things…Atticus, he was real nice.”
Atticus: “Most people are, Scout, when you finally see them.” Explain how this quote relates to Boo Radley.

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-13T19:08:00.003-04:00

Chapter 26: Scout talks about a current events project that takes place in her classroom. Choose something that is going on around you, either nationally, internationally, or locally, that interests you and talk about it's importance.

Chapter 27: Scout talks about being in a school play. Were you ever in a school play? If so, what did you do and was it a good experience?

Chapter 28: Do you blame Atticus for Jem getting hurt? Why/why not?

Chapter 29: Find a word in the chapter that you are unfamiliar with. Look it up in the dictionary and use it in a new sentence dealing with the story.

Chapter 30: Were you surprised to find that Boo helped Jem? Why/why?

Chapter 31: Is your opinion of Boo Radley different from the beginning of the book? Obviously, we know that Scout's opinon has changed. Why do you think Boo Radley acts the way that he does?

2008-04-13T17:23:00.001-04:00

Chapter 26 –
What was Scout’s conflict with Miss Gates? Cite textual evidence?

Chapter 27 –
What events occurred in Maycomb and what did they have to do with Bob Ewell? What do you think they mean?

Chapter 28 –
Onomatopoeia is a literary device that is defined as words that sound like the sounds they make. For example, “The bee flew by with a buzz.” Buzz is a form of onomatopoeia. Can you find an example of onomatopoeia in Chapter 28?

Chapter 29 –
Explain Bob Ewell’s character as described by Mr. Tate early in Chapter 29.

Chapter 30 –
How has Scout’s image and perception of Boo Radley changed? How has your perception changed? Why?

Chapter 31 –
How does the statement “…you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them…” apply to Scout’s understanding of Boo. What does she learn?

Chapter 26 - 31 Questions

2008-04-13T17:15:00.002-04:00

Chapter 26

Why does Boo Radley no longer frighten Scout?

Chapter 27

Why does Maycomb decide to hold Halloween Festivities at the high school? What do you think of this decision?

Chapter 28

What happens as Jem and Scout are walking home from the high school? What are Jem's injuries? What would a person do if he or she had such injuries today?

Chapter 29

What does Heck Tate say about Bob Ewell? What do you think about this?

Chapter 30

Why do Heck Tate, Atticus, and Scout agree to say that Bob Ewell was killed by falling on his own knife? Do you think this is the right decision?

Chapter 31

What does Scout think about when she is standing on the front porch of the Radley house? How do you think she feels about Boo Radley now?

2008-04-13T16:09:00.000-04:00

Chapter 26
If you were Scout and had to talk about a current event what would it be? Why did you choose the topic and give a brief discussion about it.

Chapter 27
What was the author’s purpose to write about Mrs. Tutti (Sarah) and Frutti (Frances) Barber? Why do the ladies have those nicknames? Does it remind you of a popular pun? Explain.

Chapter 28
A simile is comparing two different things using like or as. Find at least one simile.

Chapter 29
At what point do you think Scout realized Boo Radley was the man standing in the corner of Jem’s room? Explain.

Chapter 30
Explain why To Kill a Mockingbird is the title of this story. If you were the author of this story what would the title be? Why?

Chapter 31
After reading this story explain why Arthur Radley stayed inside his house for the majority of his life. Why would Scout never see him again?

2008-04-08T14:41:00.001-04:00

Chapter 21
Do Atticus and Jem both expect the same verdict?
Chapter 22
Explain in your own words why Atticus believes Jem has a right to know what has happened.

Chapter 23
Define “circumstantial evidence” and how it relates to Tom’s conviction.
Chapter 24
We read about the Maycomb ladies in this chapter, what is your opinion of them?
Chapter 25
What do they mean when they say Tom’s death was “typical”?

2008-04-06T23:27:00.002-04:00

Chapter 21 -

A colloquialism is an expression that may be specific to a certain region or people. Can you find and cite any colloqualisms on page 220?

Chapter 22 -

"'I didn't think it wise in the first place to let them -' ;This is their home, sister,... we've made it this way form them, they might as well learn to cope with it'" What does Aunt Alexandra want to protect the children from? What does Atticus mean by what he says?

Chapter 23 -

When Aunt Alexandra refuses to let Scout have Walter Cunningham over for dinner, is she acting any better than the bigots of Maycomb? How do Scout and Jem feel about the issue of prejudice and bigotry (see page 240)? Cite textual evidence.

Chapter 24 -

Why did Tom run?

Chapter 25 -

How does the death of Tom compare to the killing of a mockingbird? Explain and cite textual evidence.

Chapters 21-25 Questions

2008-04-06T23:19:00.001-04:00

Chapter 21

Were you surprised by the “Guilty” verdict? Explain.

Chapter 22

Miss Maudie indicates that Atticus was chosen on purpose, not by accident. Why do you think this is? What does this say about Atticus?

Chapter 23

Why do you think Jem feels Boo Radley wants to stay in his house?

Chapter 24

If you were Tom Robinson would you have escaped prison? Why do you think he did it?

Chapter 25

What did Mr. Ewell mean by “…one down and about two more to go?”

Chapters 21- 25

2008-04-06T18:25:00.002-04:00

Chapters 21- 25

Chapter 21

1) Why do you think all of the African-Americans stood up when Atticus walked out of the courtroom?

Chapter 22

2) Why do you think Atticus was chosen to represent Tom Robinson?

Chapter 23

3) Jem seems to be wise for his age, why does he think Boo Radley wants to stay in his house?

Chapter 24

4) In this chapter, what did Scout finally respect about Aunt Alexandra?

Chapter 25

5) On page 241- When Jem was talking about Mr. Ewell, he said, "Mr. Ewell was more hot gas than anything". What did he mean by this?

Chapter 21 - 25 Questions

2008-04-06T17:10:00.002-04:00

Chapter 21

What is the verdict in Tom Robinson's trial? How do you feel about this?

Chapter 22

Why do the colored folks of Maycomb send Atticus gifts? What does this tell you about them?

Chapter 23

Why does Aunt Alexandra say that Walter Cunningham cannot come over? How do Jem and Scout respond to her words?

Chapter 24

What happens to Tom Robinson in prison? Why do you think he tried to run?

Chapter 25

How does Maycomb respond to the news that Tom Robinson has been killed while trying to escape from prison? How would you react to this news?

2008-04-06T14:49:00.000-04:00

Chapter 21
Jem said to Scout, “There are thing you don’t understand.” What did he mean by that?

Chapter 22
As you have been getting to know Jem Finch, describe his morals. Use examples from the book to support your answer.

Chapter 23
Jem was not happy about a law in Alabama and wanted Atticus to change it. Is there a certain law in your state that you would like to change? What law is it, what would you change about it, and how would you change it?

Chapter 24
Do you think that Scout will become a lady? Why/why not?

Chapter 25
Mr. Ewell said, “It made one down and about two more to go.” Who are the other two that Mr. Ewell is referring to? Why did you chose those two people?

Chapters 21-25:

2008-04-06T14:32:00.002-04:00

21. Pretend you are a juror that is on the jury for Tom Robinson's trial. Make an agrument for what you believe is the truth.

22. Why is Jem so upset over the verdict?

23. How does Atticus feel about racism? Use details from the chapter.

24. Summarize Chapter 24.

25. What is the main idea of Chapter 25?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-06T00:56:00.001-04:00

Chapter 21
Why do you think Atticus allows the children to come back after dinner? Do you think he knows how the trial will turn out?

Chapter 22
Refer to page 216. When Jem and Miss Maudie were talking, Jem started to say “Soon’s I get grown…” Finish his sentence. What do you think he was going to say?

Chapter 23
Jem asks Atticus, “Why don’t people like us and Miss Maudie ever sit on juries?” Do you think there would be enough people who fit this description in Maycomb to change the outcome of Tom Robinson’s trial? Why?

Chapter 24
Why do you think Tom Robinson tried to escape? Do you think he knew that he would be shot, or do you think he believed he had a chance to get away? What other thoughts do you have about this part of the story?

Chapter 25
Up to this point, Boo Radley was only mentioned a few times in the last five chapters. What do you think his role is going to be throughout the remainder of the story?

2008-03-31T20:52:00.001-04:00

Chapter 16
How would you describe Dolphus Raymond?

Chapter 17
This chapter gives us some insight into the Ewell home. What kinds of things do we learn?

Chapter 18
Compare Mayella with her father.

Chapter 19
Why does Scout say that Mayella was “the loneliest person in the world”?

Chapter 20
In your own words, discuss Atticus’ beliefs on equality.

2008-03-30T20:19:00.000-04:00

Chapter 16
Compare/contrast a courtroom today to the description Scout gave of a courtroom in the 1930’s. Base today’s courtroom either from experiencing it or what is seen from a media source. Use descriptive details.

Chapter 17
What do you think is going through Jem’s mind as he is watching the trial of Tom Robinson?

Chapter 18
Do you think Judge Taylor has control of the courtroom? Give examples to support your answer.

Chapter 19
Knowing about Dill’s characteristics so far, does it surprise you that Dill would be upset about what is going on in the courtroom? Why/why not? What would be the underlying reason for Dill to be upset at this point?

Chapter 20
Mr. Raymond trusted Scout and Dill with his deepest secret because they are children. What did he mean by that? How did Scout and Dill feel about knowing his secret?

Chapter 16-20

2008-03-30T18:51:00.000-04:00

Chapter 16

It is noted in this chapter that Atticus was appointed to defend Tom Robinson and it was not his choice. Do you think he would have defended him otherwise? Why or why not?

Chapter 17

Why did Atticus have Bob Ewell sign his name? What did this show to the jury?

Chapter 18

Do you think Mayella Ewell is lying about what happened? Why or why not? If so, what do you think really happened?

Chapter 19

Why did Mr. Gilmer, and nearly the entire courtroom, seemed so shocked and appalled that Tom said “I felt right sorry for her…?”

Chapter 20

Why does Dolphus Raymond let people think that he is an alcoholic? Do you think this is understandable? What does that say about society during this time?

Chapter 16-20

2008-03-30T17:57:00.002-04:00

Chapter 16
1) Even though Atticus was chosen to be Tom Robinson's attorney-do you think he still would've represented him even if he wasn't forced to?

Chapter17
2) Although we are not far into the case, what are your predictions for the rest of the story? Do you think Tom Robinson is guilty or innocent?

Chapter 18
3) Describe Mayella Ewell-do you think her story sounds convincing? Support your answers with examples from the book.

Chapter 19

4) What kind of handicap does Tom Robinson have? And how could it possibly help him win the case?

Chapter 20
5) How did Atticus' closing remarks affect you? Why was it so powerful?

Chapter 16 - 20 Questions

2008-03-30T17:13:00.002-04:00

Chapter 16

Why do you think so many people are in the courtroom to see the trial?
If you had the choice, would you have gone to this trial? Why or why not?

Chapter 17

What does Atticus try to prove when Mr. Ewell is on the stand? How does he try to prove this?

Chapter 18

Why is Mayella Ewell afraid to take the stand at the beginning of the Chapter?

Chapter 19

What kind of person is Tom Robinson? How do you know this?

Chapter 20

Why does Dolphus Raymond pretend to drink? What does this tell you about Maycomb?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-30T14:10:00.003-04:00

Chapter 16-
The quote "Aunt Alexandra radiated waves of disapproval" (page 156, 3rd paragraph) is a figure of speech. What is it intended to mean?

Chapter 17-
Do you believe Tom Robinson is innocent? If so, what do you think really happened to Mayella? If not, why do you think that way?

Chapter 18-
A simile shows a comparison between two unlike things using the words like or as. Find a simile on page 181 in the 2nd paragraph. What does that simile tell us about Mayella?

Chapter 19-
When Tom Robinson said (page 197) "Yes, suh. I felt sorry for her, she seemed to try more 'n the rest of 'em-" there was a uproar in the courtroom. Why would people in the courtroom not like this statement (especially whites)?

Chapter 20-
After reading most of the trial, do you consider Atticus a hero? Use evidence from the book to support your answer.

2008-03-30T13:27:00.001-04:00

Chapter 16 –
In past chapter we have discussed Atticus’s feelings towards African Americans in relation to the rest of the towns’ feelings. It has been brought up that Atticus was a better man because he decided to take Tom Robinson’s case. However, on page 174 the Idlers’ Club states that, “….the court appointed him [Atticus] to defend this nigger.” Does this fact change your opinion of Atticus? If so how?

Chapter 17 –
Describe the Ewell family and their living situation. How does this description make you feel? How does the town feel about the Ewell family? Include textual evidence to support your response.

Chapter 18 –
Why do you think Mayella was afraid of and resentful towards Atticus? Do think her testimony is truthful or deceitful?

Chapter 19 –
How would you describe Tom Robinson? Do you think his testimony was truthful or deceitful? What elements about both Mayella’s testimony (from chapter 18) and Tom Robinson’s testimony make them valid or invalid? Who do you believe and why?

Chapter 20 –
What prejudices are held against Mr. Raymond? Is he what people think he is? Support your claim with textual evidence.

Chapters 16 - 20

2008-03-30T02:11:00.001-04:00

Chapter 16
On page 156, Atticus makes the comment about Braxton Underwood despising Negros in front of Calpurnia. Aunt Alexandra frowns at this and says that he shouldn’t talk like that in front of them. What do you think she means by this? What do you think Aunt Alexandra thinks Calpurnia will do as a result to this sort of talk?

Chapter 17
On page 171 it states, “All the little man on the witness stand had that made him any better than his nearest neighbors was, that if scrubbed with lye soap in very hot water, his skin was white.” In your own words, describe what is meant by this quote.

Chapter 18
What do you think of Mayella’s crying on the witness stand? Do you think they were real tears or an act so that the judge and jury would feel sorry for her? Why?

Chapter 19
What is your opinion of Tom Robinson? Do you believe he is guilty or innocent? Support your belief with the text.

Chapter 20
Why do you think Mr. Dolphus Raymond portrays himself the way he does? Do you think he should act this way? Why?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-24T23:44:00.001-04:00

Chapter 11
Do you think Harper Lee ended the first part of the book after chapter 11 on purpose? Explain your answer.

Chapter 12
Why is there a difference in the way Calprunia speaks while in the Finch house, and when she is with her church neighbors?

Chapter 13
How does Aunt Alexandra get involved in the social aspects of Maycomb?

Chapter 14
Describe Dill’s reasons for running away.

Chapter 15
Comment on the ways Scout affects events even when she doesn’t realize it.

Chapter 11-15

2008-03-24T22:03:00.003-04:00

Chapter 11:
If you were Atticus, would you have punished Jem and Scout for ruining Mrs. Dubose flowers?

Chapter 12:
How does the relationship between Jem and Scout begin to change? Why do you think Jem's attitude toward her is now different?

Chapter 13:
Aunt Alexandra comes to live with the Finch's. What do you think her influence will be on the children? Will she try to make them change?

Chapter 14:
If you were Atticus would you fire Calpurnia? Why/why not?

Chapter 15:
After Scout told Mr. Cunningham to tell his boy "hey" for her, why do you think Mr. Cunningham told the rest of the men to leave?

2008-03-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

Chapter 11 –
An idiom is an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements. What does the idiom “…his money was burning up his pockets…” mean?

Chapter 12 –
Commas are used between items in a series, to set off interruptions, to set off dialogue, between two independent clauses, to set off introductory phrases and clauses, in direct address, to separate adjectives, to set off interjections and to set off appositives. What is the function of the commas in this sentence: “He was difficult to live with, inconsistent, moody.”

Chapter 13 –
Find and cite a simile found on page 143. What does it mean?

Chapter 14 –
How do you think Atticus’s attitude toward Cal and other African Americans is in comparison with most other people in Maycomb?

Chapter 15 –
What does it mean when Scout says, “This was Atticus’s dangerous question.”?

Chapter 11-15 Questions

2008-03-24T19:47:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11

Why do you think Mrs. Dubose sent Jem the box with the white camellia in it? What do you think her “message” was?

Chapter 12

According to Scout, Calpurnia was talking differently – why? Are there certain situations where you speak differently? Explain.

Chapter 13

What kind of a person is Aunt Alexandra? Use examples from the book to support your answer.

Chapter 14

Why do you think Aunt Alexandra did not want Scout to go to Calpurnia’s? Do you agree or disagree with this decision?

Chapter 15

Why did Mr. Cunningham decide to tell the rest of the men to “clear out?”

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-24T19:27:00.003-04:00

Chapter 11
1) What do you think Atticus wanted Jem to learn by reading to Mrs. Dubose?

Chapter 12
2)Describe how the people of First Purchase Church feel about Atticus.

Chapter 13
3) What is the simile on pages 131 and 132?

Chapter14
4) Why do you think Dill ran to Maycomb? Why is it such a comforting place to him?

Chapter 15
5) What do you think all of those men were doing outside of the jail? Do you think they wanted to hurt Atticus?

2008-03-24T14:30:00.000-04:00

Chapter 11
Jem was caressing the flower petals at the end of the chapter. What was he thinking of? What do you thin Jem learned about the whole experience with Mrs. Dubose.
Chapter 12
Jem and Scout went to a different church where at times they felt awkward. Where have you been that felt awkward to you? Describe your feelings.

Chapter 13
Do think it is true that families have distinct characteristics? Explain your answer.

Chapter 14
There are many conflicts in this chapter. Discuss one conflict in detail.

Chapter 15
Jem had a feeling that Atticus was in trouble. Have you ever had a strong feeling about something that was wrong? What did you do about it?

Chapter 11 - 15 Questions

2008-03-23T20:44:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11

Why does Jem destroy Mrs. Dubose's flowers? Do you think that he should have been punished for destroying the flowers? Why or why not?

Chapter 12

What happens when Calpurnia takes Jem and Scout to her church? What do you think of Reverend Sykes?

Chapter 13

Why do you think Aunt Alexandra moves in with Atticus, Jem, and Scout? What kind of person is Aunt Alexandra?

Chapter 14

Why do you think Aunt Alexandra wants Atticus to get rid of Calpurnia?

Chapter 15

Why does Atticus sit in front of the jail door? What does this tell you about Atticus?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-22T23:00:00.000-04:00

Chapter 11
Why do you think Mrs. Dubose treated Jem and Scout the way she did? How would you have reacted to the things she said if they were directed toward you or someone in your family?

Chapter 12
With the exception of Lula, the children got a fairly warm welcome at Calpurnia’s church. Do you think Calpurnia would have received the same type of welcome if she had attended the Finch’s church? Why?

Chapter 13
What do you think Atticus meant when he said, “Get more like Cousin Joshua every day, don’t I? Do you think I’ll end up costing the family five hundred dollars?”

Chapter 14
Do you think Aunt Alexandra has the right to determine whether or not Scout goes to Calpurnia’s house? Why do you think she doesn’t want her to go?

Chapter 15
How do you think Mr. Cunningham felt when Scout was talking to him in front of the crowd of men? What made him lead the people away?

2008-03-16T22:07:00.001-04:00

Chapter 6
How does Harper Lee use descriptions to capture the energy of Jem, Scout and Dill’s evening adventure? Provide an example of a passage that engaged you as a reader and made you feel a part of the event.

Chapter 7
Who do you think is leaving the gifts in the knot hole? What kind of person do you think they are? Why?

Chapter 8
How would you describe Miss Maudie’s reaction to the tragedy she experienced? What lesson can we learn from her?

Chapter 9
Why do you think it is so important for Atticus to take this controversial case?

Chapter 10
How does Scout feel about her father? Include textual evidence to support your claim.

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-16T20:54:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6
1) Describe how Jem must've felt when he went back to the Radley house at night to get his pants.

Chapter 7
2) What do you think is the real reason Mr. Nathan Radley put the cement in the knot hole?

Chapter 8
3) So far in the book, we don't know much about Boo Radley, but after this chapter-what do you think of him-what kind of person is he? Do you think he's as bad as everyone thinks he is?

Chapter 9
4) Describe Atticus-and the kind of person he is.

Chapter 10
5)In this chapter Atticus tells his children that, “It's a sin to kill a mockingbird”. Why is it a sin?

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Chapter 6
The adults were upset when Dill said they were playing poker. Why did Scout say, “Matches were dangerous, but cards were fatal?”

Chapter 7
Jem and Scout took items that were in a hole in a tree. Do you think it was right for them to take the items? What would you do if you came across something you knew did not belong to you?

Chapter 8
Have you ever felt guilty about something you have done? Was there ever a coincidence to your actions? Jem and Scout’s coincidence was that it was snowing because were snooping at the Radley’s.

Chapter 9
What is Scout’s relationship with Uncle Jack like? Do you have an Aunt or an Uncle in which you have a similar relationship?

Chapter 10
It has been said that dogs go mad in August not in January. Why would a dog go mad in a certain month? What would be the reason for this?

Chapter 6-10 Questions

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Chapter 6

Would you have gone back for the pants if you were Jem? Why or why not?

Chapter 7

Why do you think Jem may have been crying?

Chapter 8

Was it really Boo Radley that gave Scout the blanket? How has the way you thought of Boo changed from the beginning of the book until this point?

Chapter 9

Do you think Atticus is a good parent? Why or why not? Use examples from the story to support your answer.

Chapter 10

Why do you think Atticus didn’t tell Jem and Scout about his shooting abilities?

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Chapter 6
Why does Scout not approve of looking into the Radley house?

Chapter 7
After getting his pants back, what strange thing does Jem tell Scout?

Chapter 8
Why does Atticus save the wooden rocking chair?

Chapter 9
What does Scout’s Uncle mean when he says she is “growing out of her pants”?

Chapter 10
Why does Atticus tell the kids that “it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird”?

Chapters 6-10

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Chapter 6:
Act as if you were in the Radley house as Jem, Dill, and Scout were outside trying to look in. What did you see and hear? How would you have reacted?

Chapter 7:
Jem suggests that they write a letter to who is leaving things in the knot-hole. What do you think they would have said in the letter?

Chapter 8:
Scout said that she nearly threw up when she found out that Boo Radley put a blanket around her shoulders. What do you think might have made her react this way?

Chapter 9:
What do you think Maycomb's attitude is toward Atticus defending African Americans?

Chapter 10:
Harper Lee never states how old Atticus is, but she hints that he isn't young. Based on the information given in the chapter, how old do you think he is? Why would you guess that age? (Support your answer with information from the text).

Chapter 6 - 10 Questions

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Chapter 6

What happens when Jem stands on the back porch to look into the Radley's window?

Chapter 7

Why do you think Jem cries at the end of Chapter 7?

Chapter 8

Why do you think that Boo Radley gives Scout a blanket? What kind of person do you think he is?

Chapter 9

Why does Scout fight with Francis on Christmas? Do you think she was right to fight with him? Why or why not?

Chapter 10

At the opening of the chapter, how does Scout feel about her dad? Why does she feel this way? What changes her feelings by the end of the chapter?

Chapters 6 - 10

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Chapter Six
Dill claimed that he had won Jem’s pants in a game of strip poker by the fishpool, which greatly upset Miss Rachel. Do you think her response to the truth would have been better or worse? Why?

Chapter Seven
Why did Nathan Radley put cement in the tree? What does that make you believe about the person leaving the gifts?

Chapter Eight
Describe Scout’s reaction to the change in weather. Why did she react this way?

Chapter Nine
What do you think of Uncle Jack Finch? What things about him make him likable to the Jem and Scout? How would you like him for an uncle?

Chapter Ten
Do you think Atticus is old to be Jem and Scout’s father?
Miss Maudie tells Scout, “You and Jem have the benefit of your father’s age. If your father was thirty, you’d find life quite different.” How do you think their life would be different?

Chapters 1-5

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Chapter 1
Why is Boo Radley's house so interesting?

Chapter 2
Why is Scout looking forward to school?

Chapter 3
What do you think about the way Atticus treats Walter?

Chapter 4
What does Scout think of education?

Chapter 5
What does Atticus say about playing the Boo Radley Game?

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Ch. 1 -
Why is Dill significant to the progression of the story?

Ch. 2 -
The literary device of simile is when one object is described as something else with "like" or "as." Write one example of simile found in Chapter 2.

Ch. 3 -
How does acceptance present itself in Chapter 3?

Ch. 4 -
How did Scout feel about school and the Dewey Decimal system? Include a supporting quote.

Ch. 5 -
What does Miss Maudie mean when she says, "but sometimes the Bible in the hand of one man is worse than a whiskey bottle in the hand of - oh, of your father."?

Chapters 1-5

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Chapter 1

1) Describe the Radley house. Does it seem scary to you?

Chapter 2

2) Scout's first grade teacher, Miss Caroline- did not like that Scout already knew how to read. Do you think this is a good quality of a teacher? Why or why not? If not, how should she have reacted to Scout?

Chapter 3

3) What are your feelings about Calpurnia? Does she seem like a good person/housekeeper?

Chapter 4
4) Who do you think is putting items in the knot hole of the tree? Do you think it is someone trying to befriend the children? Who could it be?

Chapter 5

5) Describe the relationship between Scout and Miss Maudie, and why do you think Scout likes to hang out with her?

Chapter 1 - 5 Questions

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Chapter 1

What are some things about the Radley's and the Radley house that arrouse suspicion within the community?

Chapter 2

How does Scout's first morning of first grade go? What do you think of her teacher?

Chapter 3

Why does the teacher, Ms. Caroline, cry? How would being familiar with Maycomb's ways help her?

Chapter 4

Who do you think put the gum and money in the tree? Why do you think he or she put these things in the tree? Was Scout wrong to take them?

Chapter 5

Why does Scout become friends with Miss Maudie? What does Miss Maudie say about Boo Radley?

Chapter 1-5 Questions

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Chapter 1

Do you think the stories about Arthur “Boo” Radley are true or just rumors? Why or why not? What parts do you think really happened and which do you think are just gossip?

Chapter 2

Imagine you are a student in Miss Caroline’s class on the first day of school. What are your first impressions of her and the way she teaches?

Chapter 3

Atticus says of the Ewell family, “Sometimes it’s better to bend the law a little in special cases.” However, as far as Scout is concerned he says, “In your case, the law remains rigid.” Do you think it is ever OK to bend the rules or the law for “special cases?” Why or why not?

Chapter 4

Who do you think put the gum and the small box in the oak tree? Why do you think they put it there?

Chapter 5

What do you think would have happened if Atticus wouldn’t have caught Jem, Dill, and Scout trying to get the letter to Boo Radley? How would you have gotten the letter to Boo?

Chapters 1-5

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Chapter One

After reading chapter one, how would you describe Dill? Support your description with the text.

Chapter Two

How did Scout’s initial attitude about school change after she started her first day? What caused this change in attitude? Do you think her attitude about school will remain the same throughout the rest of the story or do you think it will change again?

Chapter Three

Take on the role of Miss Caroline in the conflict she had with Burris Ewell on pages 25-28. How would you have handled the situation differently? How do you think the other students felt during this conflict?

Chapter Four

Refer to the following sentence found on page 33:
“Some tinfoil was sticking in a knot-hole just above my eye level, winking at me in the afternoon sun.”
What figure of speech is being used? How does using this type of language make the sentence more descriptive?

Chapter Five

Jem and Dill decide that they want to give Boo Radley a note. If you were writing a note to Boo Radley, what would your note say? How would you go about giving the note to Boo Radley?

Chapters 1 - 5 Questions

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I have taken the posting below from the comments section and placed it here. This was posted by Ashley:
Chapter One:
Scout describes Boo Radley as a "malevolent phantom" who is over six feet tall and eats squirrels and cats. How does this description help you (the reader) visualize Boo? What role do you think Boo is going to play in the story as it continues?

Chapter Two:
Miss Caroline Fisher scolds Scout for being able to read when she begins first grade. She tells Scout to tell her dad to stop teaching her to read, and that Miss Fisher is going to try to undo the damage. What does Miss Fisher mean that she is going to undo the damage? Do you agree with her way of teaching? Why/why not?

Chapter Three:
The chapter begins with Scout rubbing Walter Cunningham's nose in the dirt for getting her in trouble. They soon meet up with Jem, and Jem invites Walter over for dinner. Why do you think he does this? Retell what happens at the dinner table.

Chapter Four:
Explain what you think is going on with objects that Scout and Jem are finding in the tree at the Radley home. How are the objects getting there? Why are they there? Were they meant to be found?

Chapter Five:
Chapter five focuses on Boo Radley and the children's questions about him. Scout begins to talk to her neighbor, Miss Maudie, more often. How does her perception of him differ from Scout's?

Introduction

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My name is Steven Smart. I am a graduate student at California University of Pennsylvania. I teach first grade at Monongahela Elementary Center in Monongahela, Pennsylvania. I enjoy swimming and gardening. I look forward to discussing To Kill a Mockingbird with you this semester!

2008-03-06T21:26:00.000-05:00

My name is Emily Hall. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Arts degree in French. Currently I am a graduate student at California University of Pennsylvania working towards my certification and Masters Degree in Elementary Education. I have done many hours of volunteer work with youth groups as well as with Pre-school students in Americorps’ Jumpstart program. I like to play tennis, watch movies and admire nature. I am getting married in October of this year and I’m very excited. I’m also excited to create a blog with you! I look forward to your responses.

Introduction

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My name is Sara Lucatorto. I went to Penn State University for Elementary Education, and graduated in 2003. I am going to California University to get my Reading Specialist degree. I got married last summer and live in Pittsburgh, PA. I used to teach third grade and I now teach first grade.

Chapters 1 -

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