Monday, April 21, 2008

Final Thoughts

I enjoyed collaborating with you while reading "To Kill a Mockingbird." It was nice to see how involved in the story you were. You did a great job analyzing and interpreting the novel. You answered the questions with intense thought and maturity. "To Kill a Mockingbird" contained some mature topics that are sometimes difficult to discuss, but you handled the questions as experts. Good job to you all!!!!!!

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Final Thoughts on "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Final Thoughts


Thank you for your great comments and I hope you enjoyed reading “To Kill a Mockingbird” as much as I enjoyed reading this story. The irony in this story was forever changing. The author uses the controlling metaphor, “mockingbird” which represents innocence. In this story, we are always asking ourselves the question, “Why?” This story was written from a child’s perspective that also adults can relate to. The character undergo significant changes over a span of three years. They must deal with issues such as racism, rape, injustice, and murder. Even though this novel depicts extraordinary circumstances in the 1930s in the Southern United States, many of us can relate to some of the issues. We can form our opinions and also have debates on what is morally right or wrong. This helps us to grow mentally through assimilating life experiences. We can grow, whether we are school children or adults. That is the purpose of this story.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Final Thoughts

I hope that everyone enjoyed reading "To Kill a Mockingbird" as much as I did. I am happy that I had the opportunity to read this book. I feel that this book is not only a good story, though, it is also very informative as well. I also really liked the lessons that the book represented through the stories that the were described (such as the injustice that was given to Tom Robinson throughout his trial). I enjoyed how the style of the book is actually written, often times I found myself think that I was in the scene with Jem, Scout, and Dill on the summer nights that Dill returned to see them. Overall, I am glad that I not only had the chance to read this book, though, I am happy that we were all able to have the opportunity to read the book together and discuss how we felt about it throughout our reading journey. Happy reading for the future!

Amanda Zajac

Friday, April 18, 2008

Final Thoughts on "To Kill a Mockingbird"

I was certainly glad to read this book. It was a beautifully written story describing life in the old South from the perspective of a child with insight and honesty. What I appreciated most about this novel was the relationship of Atticus to his children, Scout and Jem. At a time and place when racial predjudice was normal and hate crimes were common, Atticus took an attittude which was different from the majority. He taught Scout and Jem that justice and compassion for fellow human beings regardless of race or wealth should shape their thoughts and behaviors. He believed in these ideals despite opposition from the Maycomb townsfolk and he took action according to them. Guarding Tom Robinson on the eve of his trial and refusing to retaliate when Bob Ewell spat in his face are two examples. I am glad that this novel will be available to many young, future readers. I hope that the superior human qualities of love, courage and equality in the landscape of predjudice and hate which it describes will live on forever.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Chapters 26--31

Here are some questions from Chapters 26-31. The end has come. I hope that you have enjoyed this novel, as I have.

Chapter 26
What are Scout’s feelings about her teacher Miss Gates?

Chapter 27
Why is Aunt Alexandra worried about the “Bob Ewell” events that have been taking place?

Chapter 28
How do you think Scout and Jem felt when they realized that their pursuer wasn’t Cecil Jacobs? What would you have done if you were in their situation?

Chapter 29
How does the portrayal of Boo Radley change after Scout realizes that he is the one who saved them?

Chapter 30
Explain this quote: “Let the dead bury the dead.”

Chapter 31
Why doesn’t Harper Lee return to the adult Scout at the end of the novel? Why doesn’t she give the reader details about Scout’s future, except that she never sees Boo Radley again?

Chapters 26-31 and 21-25 Questions

Hello students. These are the questions for chapters 26-31. The questions for chapter 21-25 were written in “Group Blog Five B.” If you did not find the questions, I added them after these questions.

Chapter 26-31 Questions

Chapter 26 Question
Jem tells Scout to never mention the trial to him again. Do you think Jem will talk about the trial to someone else. How long do you think Jem will suppress the memories of the trial?

Chapter 27 Question
How do you describe Bob Ewell’s attitude towards getting and keeping a job?

Chapter 28 Question
Why do you think the audience at the pageant accuses Scout of ruining the pageant deliberately?
Chapter 29 Question
In the first paragraph of chapter 29, the author states, “For once in his life, Atticus’s instinctive courtesy failed him.” Why does the author make this statement and why is the word “instinctive” used?

Chapter 30 Question
“Let the dead bury the dead.” What does this statement mean in the story? What does this statement mean using figurative language.

Chapter 31 Question
On page 296, the author refers to the statement Atticus made, “You never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them.” What does this statement mean? This statement is a theme used throughout the novel. It can be used to refer to many characters in this novel. Pick a character and relate this theme.

Chapter 21-25 Questions

Chapter 21 Question
Scout remembers that Atticus said a jury doesn't look a guilty man in the eyes. What do you think this statement suggest?

Chapter 22 Question
Jem cries about the injustice he witnessed that day with the guilty verdict. What statement would you tell Jem to help him understand the justice system?

Chapter 23 Question
Why did Jem invite Walter to dinner after he fought with Scout in the schoolyard? What did he want Scout to learn?

Chapter 24 Question
Do you think the missionary circle is really racist after calling some black people “sulky” and saying some blacks need to be save? These are contrasting statements.

Chapter 25 Question
Scout starts to squash a roly-poly bug and Jem stops her. Is Jem using overgeneralization? Is this good or bad? Do you think Jem is starting to think more like Atticus at this point?

Chapters 26 - 31

I hope that everyone enjoyed reading this book! Here are a few more questions about the last chapters of the book.

Chapter 26

How does Scout feel about her teacher, Miss Gates?

Chapter 27

Who takes Scout to the Halloween party and play at her school? Why does this person take Scout?

Chapter 28

What happened to Jem and Scout on the way home from the school?

Chapter 29

Who carried Jem home?

Chapter 30

What does Atticus believe happened to Bob Ewell?

Chapter 31

At the end of the book, Scout wonders what Boo Radley’s life is like. Using the information that you have learned about Boo Radley, what do you think that his life is like?

Amanda Zajac

Chapters 26 - 31 Questions

Hi Everyone! Congratulations for finishing the book! Here's some questions for the last chapters.

Chapter 26

What is ironic about Ms. Gates telling the class that America is a democracy with "equal rights for all, special privileges for none"?

Chapter 27

Who do you think made the scratching noise at the back corner of Judge Taylor's house? What do think this intruder was attempting to do?

Chapter 28

Mr. Tate's last words in this chapter are "He's dead, Mr. Finch" (p. 306). At this point in the story, who does Mr. Tate believe has killed Bob Ewell?

Chapter 29

What realization makes Scout's eyes blurr with tears when she recognizes the man leaning against the wall as "Boo" Radley (p. 311)?

Chapter 30

Mr. Tate tells Atticus "Your boy never stabbed Bob Ewell". Is this true? If it is, who did?

Chapter 31

Do you think that Harper Lee is trying to convey a message to her readers on the themes of predjudice, hate, justice and compassion through this story? If so, how would you summarize the essence of her message?

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

ATTN BLOGGERS PLEASE READ THIS NOTICE

Due to some technical difficulties, please click on the link to your right and continue blogging on Group Five B blog. Look for new posts for you to comment on.

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Chapters 21-25

Chapter 21-Why do you think Atticus allowed Jem, Scout, and Dill to come back after dinner?

Chapter 22-Why did Miss Maudie call Jem, Scout, and Dill over for cake the day after the trial?

Chapter 23-What does Old Family mean to Jem?

Chapter 24- Calpurnia is serving food in this chapter. One of the foods she is serving is charlotte. What is charlotte?

Chapter 25-Why did Tom Robinson try to break out of prison? At the end of the chapter it talks about how Atticus could have gotten another trial. What made Tom risk his life when there could have been another trial?

Chapters 21-25

Hello all.. hope everyone is enjoying the story! Here are some questions for the next few chapters:
Chap 21: Even though Tom is found guilty by the jury, all of the black people still stood as a sign of respect for Atticus. How do you explain this?
Chap 22: Miss Maudie tells Jem that she believes that Judge Taylor assigned Atticus to Tom's case for a reason. What would that reason(s) be?
Chap 23: At the end of the chapter, Jem says that maybe Boo Radley stays in his house because he wants to. Do you agree?
Chap 24: Atticus says that he figured Tom was tired of taking chances with white men jurors, and decided to take a chance of his own. What does this mean?
Chap 25: Describe what you think Mr. Underwood wrote in The Maycomb Tribune.
Hi Readers!! I've got some questions for you on Chapters 16-20.
Chap 16: Why does Miss Maudie refuse to go to the courthouse?
Chap 17: What is the importance of Atticus identifying which side of Mayella face had been beaten?
Chap 18: What do you believe caused Mayella to burst into tears and sobbing at the end of her testimony?
Chap 19: Compare and contrast testimony given by Tom Robinson with the testimony given by Mayella.
Chap. 20: Jem seems convinced that his father will win the case. Do you agree or disagree? Why or why not?

Friday, April 4, 2008

Chapters 21 - 25

Hello everyone! I hope that you are still enjoying the story. Here are some questions for you to keep in mind as you continue to read. Happy reading!

Chapter 21

What is the verdict of Tom Robinson’s trial? Why do you believe that this is the verdict? If you were a jury member, would your vote be for Tom Robinson to be guilty or not guilty?

Chapter 22

What is the significance of the jury taking a long time to come to a decision during Tom Robinson’s trial?

Chapter 23

Why did Aunt Alexandra tell Scout that she should not invite Walter Cunningham to dinner?

Chapter 24

What happens to Tom Robinson when he tries to escape from the jail that is about seventy miles away from his home?

Chapter 25

What is the town of Maycomb’s reaction to Tom Robinson’s death?

Amanda Zajac

Chapters 21 - 25

Chapter 21

Why did Reverend Sykes ask Scout to stand as Atticus walked out of the courtroom after the jury pronounced Tom Robinson guilty (p. 242)?

Chapter 22

Mrs. Maudie mentions Judge Taylor while Scout, Jem and Dill are eating cake at her house. Do you think Judge Taylor took the side of Tom Robinson or Bob Ewell in the court case?

Chapter 23

Why did Atticus leave one of the Cunninghams on the jury after what happened at the jail on the night before the trial (p.254,255)?

Chapter 24

Why do you think Tom Robinson chose to take the risk of running from the prison guards when he knew his trial would be appealed?

Chapter 25

How does Mr. Underwood's editorial about Tom's death differ from the general reaction of the Maycomb inhabitants?

Chapters 21-25

I hope that you are still enjoying the book! I know that I am. Think about these questions from Chapters 21-25.

Chapter 21
Why does everyone in the “colored section” rise from their seats when Atticus leaves the courtroom?

Chapter 22
Jem is crushed by the guilty verdict: his illusions about justice and the law have been shattered. Could Jem also be compared to a mockingbird? Explain.

Chapter 23
We find out that Mr. Cunningham was the only man on the jury that wanted to acquit Tom Robinson. Does this piece of information surprise you? Explain.

Chapter 24
Mr. Underwood likens Tom Robinson’s death to “the senseless slaughter of songbirds.” What does this quote mean and what is it referring too?

Chapter 25
What incident in this chapter displays the difference in maturity levels between Jem and Scout?

Monday, March 31, 2008

Chapters 16 - 20

Chapter 16:
Why do you think the white and black people sit apart in the court house?

Chapter 17:
What happened that caused a stir in the court house?

Chapter 18:
Describe Mayella Violet Ewell?

Chapter 19:
What about Tom’s voice was swaying Scout’s opinion of him?

Chapter 20:
In his closing argument, Atticus referred to a "time-honored code." What is that unwritten law, that code that Mayella violated?

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Hey sports fans! You have done great so far with the readings, thoughts and questions. Here is the next set of questions for you to contemplate.

Chapter 16

Atticus is attempting to explain to the children why Mr. Cunningham, who was considered a friend, was trying to hurt him the night before. What is it he is saying about Mr. Cunningham’s behavior?

Chapter 17

Why was it so important to Atticus to repeat the questioning about what side of Mayella’s face was battered and bruised?

Chapter 18

Do you feel sorry for Mayella when she is on the stand and answering Atticus’ questioning?

Chapter 19

Mr. Dolphus Raymond said to the children, “You aren’t thin-hided, it just makes you sick, doesn’t it?” What does he mean by this?

Chapter 20

What was the code Mayella broke in this chapter?

Chapters 16-20

Chapter 16
How was the courthouse segregated (where did the white people sit and where did the black people sit?)

Chapter 17
Why did Atticus ask Mr. Ewell if he could read and write? How was that important to the case?

Chapter 18
Why was it so hard for Atticus to believe that Tom Robinson could have attacked Mayella Ewell the way that she described he attacked her? What important factor was revealed in this chapter?

Chapter 19
Why, even though he was innocent, did Tom Robinson run when Mr. Ewell saw him in the house with Mayella? What was Tom afraid of?

Chapter 20
Mr. Raymond told Dill, Jem, and Scout that there is not anything in his paper sack but Coca-Cola. The people in the town believe that Mr. Raymond is a heavy drinker. Why did Mr. Raymond lead the town people into thinking that he was a ‘bad person’?

Friday, March 28, 2008

Chapters 16 - 20

I hope everyone is enjoying the story! Here are a few more questions for you.

Chapter 16

Are Jem, Scout, and Dill permitted to watch the trial of Tom Robinson? Why or why not? Do all of the other people in to town attend the trial? Why or why not?

Chapter 17

What does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to write? Why does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to do this?

Chapter 18

Why can Tom Robinson not use his left hand? Why does this information affect the trial?

Chapter 19

Explain Tom Robison’s testimony.

Chapter 20

Does Atticus believe that Tom Robinson is innocent or guilty? Use examples from the story to defend your answer.

Amanda Zajac

Chapter 16-20 Questions

Chapter 16-20 Questions

Hello students. You have interesting comments. I enjoy reading your point-of-view and answers.

Chapter 16 Question
In Chapter 16, X Billups, reacted as if it wasn’t unusual to have the first name X. Why do you think it wasn’t unusual to him? Why do you think the name was unusual to other people especially the people during the courtroom incident of page 168?

Chapter 17 Question
In Chapter 17: p. 186, the author writes, “Never, never, never, on cross-examination ask a witness a question you don’t already know the answer to…” “Do it, and you’ll often get an answer you didn’t want, an answer that might wreck your case.” Try to analyze this statement.

Chapter 18 Question
Atticus asks Tom to stand up so that Mayella may identify him; as he does, Scout notices that Tom’s left arm is withered and useless—he could not have committed the crime in the way it was described. Do you think he could have cause the physical abuse in relationship to his handicap? Why or why not?

Chapter 19 Question
Dill did not understand the cross-examination technique? After reading chapter 19, try to explain the technique?

Chapter 20 Question
On page 215, What did it mean, “She must destroy the evidence of her offense.” Describe this statement in literal terms. Then, describe this statement in figurative terms.

CHAPTERZ 16 - 20

Hello fellow bloggers! Here's some questions for Chapters 16-20.

Chapter 16 - Chapter 16 describes how most of the inhabitants of Maycomb appeared to watch the trial of Tom Robinson. What elements of the Robinson case made it so interesting to the townsfolk?

Chapter 17 - Explain why the bruises on the right side of Mayella Ewell's face were so important to Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson.

Chapter 18 - Discuss Mayella Ewell's manner while answering questions at the witness stand. Do you think she was trying to make the jury feel pity for her?

Chapter 19 - Tom Robinson told Mr. Gilmer that he was scared after Bob Ewell saw Mayella hugging him. What details of Tom's and Mayella's identity made her advances so terrifying to Tom?

Chapter 20 - In this chapter, Atticus presents his closing arguement to the jury. On whom does he place the blame for the incident between Tom Robinson and Mayella Ewell? Do you think he wants the individual at fault to recieve a severe punishment?

Chapters 16-20

Hope that you are still enjoying the book! Try these questions from chapters 16-20.

Chapter 16

It is fitting that the children end up sitting in the “colored section” of the courtroom, just as it is fitting that Miss Maudie refuses to attend the trial. What does this say about their character? Do they represent the same views as the people of Maycomb County?

Chapter 17

Think about the jury and the people of Maycomb County. Would Atticus have ever won Tom Robinson’s trial? Explain.

Chapter 18

Do you view Mayella as a victim or victimizer? Explain you thoughts.

Chapter 19

Dill begins to cry during the cross-examination of Tom Robinson and we do not get all of the details because Scout escorts him outside. What can you assume about Mr. Gilmer’s cross-examination of Tom Robinson?

Chapter 20

What is the importance of Mr. Dolphus Raymond’s character? Why is his presence so significant to the story?

Monday, March 24, 2008

Chapters 11-15

Vicky said...
What a great story so far! Hope everyone is enjoying it.. I have some questions for Chapters 11-15 for you to try:
Chap. 11- How do you feel about Jem's "punishment" for ruining Mrs. Dubose's camellias? What do you think he learned?
Chap. 12- How does Scout feel at Calpurnia's church?
Chap. 13- Near the end of the chapter, Scout comments, "I can't remember everything Finches are supposed to do..." What response does Atticus give? Why?
Chap. 14- What impression do you get of Dill's life, away from Maycomb?
Chap. 15- Explain Mr. Cunningham's reaction to Scout during the "mob" scene.
March 24, 2008 8:54 PM

Chapters 11-15

Chapter 11
Why did Atticus say that Mrs. Dubose was so mean to Jem and Scout? Would you be able to be nice to someone who treated you the way she treated Jem and Scout?
Chapter 12
Why did Lula question Calpurina when Calpurina brought Jem and Scout to her church? Did everyone at the church feel the way that Lula did?
Chapter 13
Why did Aunt Alexandra come and live with Atticus, Jem, and Scout? Do you think Atticus is doing a good job raising Jem and Scout? Is there anything that you would suggest that Atticus should do differently raising his children?
Chapter 14
Why do you think Atticus was not angry that Dill ran away from home? What do you think life is like for Dill when he is not visiting Maycomb?
Chapter 15
Why do you think Atticus was so frightened when Scout pushed through the group of men?

Chapter 11-15 Questions

Chapter 11-15 Questions

Chapter 11 Question
How do you think Jem felt when Mrs. Dubose makes the statement that Atticus is not any better than the “niggers and trash he works for? “ How do you think he felt about reading to her as punishment for defending Atticus?

Chapter 12 Question
According to Erik Erikson, a psychologist that studied the stages of development, Jem is twelve years old and starting the stage of ego-identity vs role-confusion. Peer groups and role models are most significant in this phase. Jem says that Scout is starting to pester him, Dill doesn’t come to Maycomb this year and his father is traveling. The task during adolescence is to achieve ego identity and avoid role confusion.. Try to analyze how Jem will progress through this stage. Do you think he will start to establish his identity or will he have a hard time dealing with these issues?

Chapter 13 Question
In chapter 1, Scout begins narrating the story by recounting her family history. In chapter 13, Jem and Scout’s Aunt Alexandria orders Atticus to lecture them on the subject of their ancestry. Even though Scout thinks her family history is an important way to start the story, why does she cry when Atticus attempt to explain it in chapter 13.

Chapter 14 Question
Dill says he ran away (and came there) because his new father had chained him in the basement, but the reality is much more common, and in a way sadder (even if less dramatic): his parents seem to get along better without him, and he's happier with the Finches. Look at Chapter 12 question (above), and try to analyze how Dill would progress through the ego identity or role confusion stage because of this situation.

Chapter 15 Question
Mr. Underwood, the owner of the newspaper, speaks from a nearby window where he is positioned with a double-barreled shotgun: “Had you covered all the time, Atticus.” Why do you think Mr. Underwood makes this statement and do you think Atticus knew he was there? Why or why not?

Chapters 11 - 15

Hello again! I hope that you have liked Chapters 11 – 15 of “To Kill a Mockingbird”, here are a few questions from the chapters.

Chapter 11

What does Mrs. Dubose leave for Jem for after she passes away? Why do you believe that she wants him to have this gift?

Chapter 12

In what ways is Calpurnia’s church different than the church that Jem and Scout attend?

Chapter 13

Why did Aunt Alexandra come to stay with Atticus, Jem, and Scout?

Chapter 14

What was under Scout’s bed? How do you think that Jem and Scout feel about this discovery?

Chapter 15

When Atticus leaves him home to go to town, where does he go? Why do you believe that he goes there?

Amanda Zajac – California University of PA

Questions for Chapters 11 - 15

Hi everyone! Here's some questions for chapters 11 - 15.

Chapter 11 - Explain why Atticus described Mrs. Dubose as the "bravest" person he knew. Do you agree with him?

Chapter 12 - Do you think Scout liked Calpurnia's church more than her own? Which aspects of Cal's church did she enjoy?

Chapter 13 - At the end of this chapter Scout concludes, "I know what he [Atticus] was trying to do". What was Atticus trying to do by talking to Scout and Jem? Do you think what he had to say was important?

Chapter 14 - Dill tells Scout that his parents, "wasn't interested in me." Do you think Atticus is "interested" in his children, despite Aunt Alexandra's criticisms of how he is teaching them to behave?

Chapter 15 - Why did Mr. Cunningham tell the gang of men outside the jail to leave after Scout finished talking with him? Considering that these men had come to kill Tom Robinson, what does Mr. Cunningham's response to Scout demonstrate about human nature?

Chapter 11-15

Chapter 11:
To show just how much he disliked Mr. Dubose, what did Jem do?
Chapter 12:
Why do you think Jem and Scout was so impressed with Zeebo’s singing talents?
Chapter 13:
What did Aunt Alexandra want Jem and Scout to understand?
Chapter 14:
What advice does Jem give Scout about Aunt Alexandra?
Chapter 15:
Explain the Lemon-drop plan?

Sunday, March 23, 2008

Students, think try to think deeper when answering these questions from chapters 11-15.

Chapter 11
What message is Atticus trying to send to his children when he sends them to read to Mrs. Dubose?

Chapter 12
In chapter 12 we learn that Bob Ewell is the man that accused Tom Robinson of raping his daughter. What is going through Scout’s mind when she finds out that it was Mr. Robinson that made the accusation?

Chapter 13
What is it that Aunt Alexandra thinks she can do by moving into the Finch house?

Chapter 14
What do you think Aunt Alexandra hopes to accomplish by having Atticus fire Calpurnia?

Chapter 15
In this chapter the children stand up against an angry mob that confronts Atticus. Would you be able to stand up against a group or even worse an angry group of students, people or strangers for what is right?

Chapters 11-15

Here are some interesting questions to think about!!!!

Chapter 11
Atticus respects Mrs. Dubose for having “real courage” which he explains as “when you know you’re licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and you see it through no matter what.” What does this quote mean?

Chapter 12
Jem asks Calpurnia why her language changes when she goes to church. What is Calpurnia’s explanation for this?

Chapter 13
What is the atmosphere like in the Finch house now that Aunt Alexandra is there? Explain your answer.

Chapter 14
How does Scout feel when Jem tells Atticus about Dill? What does this say about Jem’s character at this point in the story?

Chapter 15
Scout is unaware of what is going on when Atticus is surrounded by the lynch mob. She politely tells Mr. Cunningham to tell his son that she said “hey” and he immediately tells the mob of men to disperse. What is being represented in this scene?

Monday, March 17, 2008

Chapters 6-10

Hi everyone!!! Let's see how you answer these questions from chapters 6-10.

Chapter 6
What is Nathan Radley’s excuse for shooting his shotgun? What does this say about the time period in which this story takes place?

Chapter 7
The reader has to infer that Boo Radley was the person who mended Jem’s pants and placed the presents in the knothole of the tree. Why does the author use this technique to tell Boo’s story?

Chapter 8
What do you believe the unseasonable snow and fire at Miss Maudie’s house represent in this chapter?

Chapter 9
The Finch family begins to face adversity, due to Atticus defending Tom Robinson. How does Atticus react to the negativity and what does he tell his children to do if faced with a difficult situation? What moral values are important to Atticus?

Chapter 10
“Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy…..but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” (this is a powerful quote) What significance does this quote have in regards to the book To Kill a Mockingbird?

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Chapters 6-10

Chapter 6
Mr. Radley was standing right next to Jem on the back porch and walked right by Dill and Scout. Do you think Mr. Radley knew it was Jem, Dill and Scout?

Chapter 7
What do people do to holes in trees when the trees are dying? If Atticus said that it did not look like the tree was dying, why do you think Mr. Radley said that it was?

Chapter 8
Aside from Miss Maudie’s house buring to the ground, what do you think Atticus was afraid of if they did not get the fire put out? What could have happened to the surrounding houses?

Chapter 9
After hearing Scout’s side of the story, Uncle Jack was furious with Francis. Even though he knew that Atticus would want to know the whole story, why do you think Uncle Jack kept his secret with Scout?

Chapter 10
Why was it a sin to kill a mockingbird?

Chapter 6-10

Chapter 6-10
Chapter 6:
How did Dill explain the loss of jem's pants to the crowd in front of the Radley’s place?
Chapter 7:
What did Jem find unusual about his pants?
Chapter 8:
Whose house burnt down?
Chapter 9:
How did scout respond to Cecil’s name calling differ from Francis’s name calling?
Chapter 10:
Which neighbor spoke highly of Atticus’s legal talents?

Chapter 6-10 Questions

Hello students! Interesting responses to questions in chapter 1-5. Great input!
Questions Chapters 6-10
Chapter 6 Question
Dill interjects that he won Jem’s pants in a game of strip poker. Atticus is more worried about the children playing cards than the game. In today’s society, which one do you think would be more of an issue?
Chapter 7 Question
When Jem and Scott find that the knothole has been filled with cement and Mr. Radley replies that the tree is dying, do you think Mr. Radley infers that is symbolic of Boo?
Chapter 8 Question
Atticus seems to be a good judge of character. Try to justify why he did not want Jem to tell anyone about Boo’s good deeds.
Chapter 9 Question
Judge whether Scout was right or wrong when she fought to save her father’s reputation.
Chapter 10 Question
What type of bird is a mockingbird and what do you think the symbolism of the mockingbird is in the story?

New Questions

Hi fellow students! Here are the questions from chapters 6-10.


Chapter 6 – On page 51 Dill suggests to Jem they go for a walk. The author said this about Dill’s behavior. “He sounded fishy to me. Nobody in Maycomb just went for a walk. What do you think the meaning of those two sentences is?

Chapter 7 – In chapter 7 we learn that Nathan Radley filled the knothole with cement because according to him the tree was dying. Jem asked Atticus if he thought the tree was dying but Atticus said no, due to the fact that the tree was green and healthy looking. Why do you think Nathan Radley lied about why he put cement in the knothole?

Chapter 8 – Scout thinks that the world is coming to an end. Explain what she sees that causes her to think that and what stories she has heard to make her believe that to be true.

Chapter 9 – Scout almost got into a fight with Cecil Jacobs in the school yard. Why did she walk away and did her actions make sense to you?

Chapter 10 – What is the reason given for Atticus no longer hunting or shooting a gun? What does this tell you about his character?
Here are some questions for chapters 6-10. Is everyone enjoying the story so far???
Chapter 6- Jem takes a big risk by going to retrieve his pants. This decision, according to Scout, is the point where "Jem and I first began to part company." (p. 56) Explain why you think Jem's choice was one he had to make, and why Scout couldn't understand it.
Chapter 7- Mr. Radley filled the knot-hole in the tree with cement. When Jem questioned him, he states that the "tree is dying," which we discover is not necessarily true. Why do you think Mr. Radley would plug the knot-hole?
Chapter 8- Boo Radley came out and placed a blanket around Scout's shoulders without her even knowing. What does this tell us about his character?
Chapter 9- In an analogy, Scout compares Aunt Alexandra to Mt. Everest. How would you describe her?
Chapter 10- In Chapter 10, we're given some insight to the author's idea for the title of the story. Explain what the phrase, "to kill a mockingbird" means.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Chapters 6 - 10

Hello again everyone! I hope that you are enjoying “To Kill a Mockingbird” as much as I am! Here are a few questions from Chapters 6 – 10.

Chapter 6

Explain what happened when Jem, Scout, and Dill went to the Radley Place.

Chapter 7

On page 57, Scout said “I tried to climb into Jem’s skin and walk around in it”, what does she mean by this statement?

Chapter 8

Describe Jem and Scout’s reaction to the snow.

Chapter 9

On page 89, Scout said “But I never figured out how Atticus knew I was listening, and it was not until many years later that I realized he wanted me to hear every word he said”, why do you think that Atticus wanted Scout to hear himself and Uncle Jack talking?

Chapter 10

Why was it a sin to kill a mockingbird?

Amanda Zajac – California University of P

Friday, March 14, 2008

Chapters 6 - 10 from Rodney H.

Hi everyone! Here's some questions for chapters 6 -10:

Chapter 6 - Why did Dill tell a lie about how Jem lost his pants after fleeing from the Radely's yard? Should he have told the truth?

Chapter 7 - Why do you think Nathan Radley plugged the knothole in the tree with cement?

Chapter 8 - Do you think Scout's opinion of Boo Radley changed after he put a blanket around her shoulder's during the fire in Ms. Maudie's house? If so, how?

Chapter 9 - Compare and contrast Scout and her cousin Francis. How are they the same? How are they different?

Chapter 10 - Analyze Jem's comment that Atticus is a "gentleman" at the end of chapter 10. What does this tell you about Jem's opinion of his father? Why would being a gentleman affect Atticus's attitude toward shooting a rifle?

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Chapter 1-5 from Rotina J

Chapter 1 Question
Who is the narrator of the story? Why is the family history an important part of the setting? Why do you think the narrator starts the story by explaining the circumstances that led to her brother’s broken arm that he sustained many years ago?

Chapter 2 Question
Even though Scout is eager to go to school, do you think she becomes reluctant because Miss Caroline belittles her for being educated already? Do you think being educated is to Scout's advantage? What incident in the story gives you the impression that it is an advantaged or disadvantaged?


Chapter 3 Question
Scout does not want to go to school. Compare and contrast what you think the consequences of her not going to school and Burris Ewell not going to school?

Chapter 4 Question
Why do you think Atticus is always sentimental about the Radleys? Why does he always reprimand Jem, Scout and Dill for making up games depicting the Radley family?

Chapter 5 Question
Miss Atkinson explains to Scout that Boo was a normal child. She seems to be convinced that those are only rumors that he is crazy. Nevertheless, she says that after Boo's father's harsh treatment of him, he is probably crazy. Do you think that Scout thinks Miss Atkinson thinks Boo is crazy? Why? What feelings do you think Miss Atkinson has towards Mr. Radley?

Monday, March 10, 2008

Chapter 1-5 J.T. Hredzak

Let’s get down to business:

1. What point of view does the author use through this story?

2. In what ways were the Radley’s different from other families who lived in Maycomb?

3. What family is considered the disgrace of Maycomb and why?

4. Describe Burris Ewell?

5. What is the first present scout finds in the tree?

Chapters 1-5 Cara C.

Chapter 1: Describe Scout, Jem, and Dill’s fascination with the Radley house?

Chapter 2: In anticipation of her first day of school Scout states that she has never looked more forward to anything in her life. How do you think she feels after meeting Miss Caroline and finally being able to go to school?

Chapter 3: In a conversation that Atticus is having with Scout, he states “Sometimes it’s better to bend the law a little in special cases.” Explain what Atticus might be referring to when he makes this statement to his daughter.

Chapter 4: Why do you think Scout did not tell Jem and Dill about the laughing she heard at the Radley house when she landed on the steps?

Chapter 5: How are Miss Maudie and Miss Stephanie Crawford different?

March 9, 2008 9:59 PM

Chapters 1-5 Mandy

Chapter 1-5 Discussion Questions

1. Chapter 1-Sometimes when people do not understand something or someone they are more likely to believe far fetched stories. In this chapter Scout and Jem tell Dill that Boo Radley eats cats and squirrels, has yellow teeth, a scar on his face, and looks in Miss Stephanie Crawford’s windows at night. Have you ever believed a story before because it was based on something that you did not understand? Did you ever discover the truth?

2. Chapter 2-Scout was trying the best she could to explain to Miss Caroline that Walter Cunningham cannot accept the money for lunch because he will not be able to pay her back. Think about how Miss Caroline must feel in this situation. If you were in her shoes, would you act the same way toward Scout or would you do anything differently?

3. Chapter 3-When you were reading this chapter, what did you think that Atticus would say to Scout when she told him that Miss Caroline gave her strict instructions not to read anymore? Did you think he would react differently? How would you feel if someone told you that you could not do the thing that you loved to do?

4. Chapter 4-Jem thought that he could get back at Scout for making him look foolish by giving her an extra hard push in the tire. From what you read, do you think that Jem regretted what he did after he realized where Scout would land? Have you ever done anything without thinking about the consequences?

5. Chapter 5-Why do you think that Dill’s stories about where he comes from, and who his family is keeps changing?

March 9, 2008 8:29 PM

Chapters 1 - 5 from Vicky

Okay group, here's some questions for the first five chapters to get us started with discussion. The questions are numbered according to the chapter they represent.
1. The Radley's seem to be a mysterious clan. Describe some of the characteristics they possess. Why do you think they behave as they do?
2. Scout didn't quite understand the principle of "entailment" (p.20). How would you explain it?
3. Calpurnia has an interesting relationship with Scout. There are two distinctively different scenes between the two in this chapter. Describe those scenes, in your own words. How does Scout feel about Calpurnia?
4. Scout makes an interesting discovery by finding the gum in the knot-hole of the oak tree. Make some predictions about who you think left the gum, and why.
5. Miss Maudie tells Scout that, "sometimes the Bible in the hand of one man is worse than a whiskey bottle in the hand of- oh, of your father." What do you think Miss Maudie means?

March 9, 2008 7:09 PM

Chapters 1-5 from Kristy J

I hope that you are enjoying the book. Here are a few questions from Chapters 1-5.

Chapter 1
Boo Radley’s father imprisoned him in the house as punishment for getting in trouble with the law, but his father has died. Why do you think Boo Radley continues to stay inside his house?

Chapter 2
In this chapter we see that there was a time when teachers were able to slap students’ hands with a ruler. Compare that to the laws and rules for teachers in schools today.

Chapter 3
Why doesn’t Scout enjoy school? How would you react if one of your teachers made you feel guilty for being educated?

Chapter 4
What is it about the Radley family that interests Jem, Scout and Dill?

Chapter 5
How does Miss Maudie describe Boo Radley? What is her theory on Boo? Will this influence the way Scout feels about him?

March 9, 2008 10:55 AM

Chapters 1-5 from Diane W.

Hello Group! Take a shot at these questions. You may have to look back for some examples. Good luck and happy reading!

Chapter 1
The story takes place in the small, farming town of Maycomb, GA. However, the Finch family is described not as a farming family but rather a family of education. What does the author tell us about the Finch family that depicts them as a family of education?

Chapter 2
Scout has her first experience with school in this chapter. She has several conflicts with Miss Caroline, her new teacher. What is the author implying about the school system in Maycomb, GA?

Chapter 3
In this chapter we begin so see social classes erupt in the novel. Why do you feel the author is stressing social classes so early in the novel?

Chapter 4
Scout finds gum in the knothole of a tree outside of Boo Radley’s house. She takes it and chews it, but when Jem finds out he makes her spit it out. Why would Jem make her spit out the gum?

Chapter 5
Scout begins talking with Maudie Atkinson because she feels left out when the boys spend time together. Maudie gives her new insight on Boo Radley. What is Maudie point-of-view about Boo?

Diane W.

March 8, 2008 4:48 PM

Chapters 1-5 from Amanda

March 8:

Zaj1277 said...
Hello! I hope that you are enjoying “To Kill a Mockingbird” as much as I am! Here are a few questions from the first five chapters of the book.

Chapter 1

1. In the first chapter of the story, To Kill a Mockingbird by H. Lee, Jem describes the mysterious neighbor, Boo, to Dill. Dill is interested in the way that Boo looks and decides that he would like to see Boo. Besides being interested in the way that Boo looks, what other reasons do you believe that Dill would like to see Boo?

Chapter 2

2. The Cunningham’s were very poor people. The Cunningham’s did not take things from others if they could not give it back. After the night that Mr. Cunningham had a long conversation with Atticus, how did Mr. Cunningham repay Atticus for his service? Why did he repay Atticus in this way?

Chapter 3

3. Scout and her father Atticus made a compromise to continue to read books at night even though Miss Caroline told her not to. Do you think that Miss Caroline will find out that Scout and Atticus made this compromise or not? Why or Why not?

Chapter 4

4. Scout found chewing gum in a tree near the edge of the Radley lot, how do you think that this got into the tree? Do you think that that there is any significance of the chewing gum being in the tree near the edge of the Radley lot?

Chapter 5

5. What is the relationship between Miss Maudie, Jem, Scout, and Dill? How does Miss Maudie feel about Jem, Scout, and Dill? How do Jem, Scout, and Dill feel about Miss Maudie?

Amanda Zajac – California University of PA

Chapters 1 - 5 from Rodney

Hi everyone! I hope you enjoyed the first five chapters of To Kill a Mockingbird. Here are some questions for you - the question numbers align with the chapters.

1. In Chapter One (p.5), Lee describes Maycomb as a “tired old town”. What literary tool is she using here? What makes Maycomb “tired”?

2. On Scout’s first day at school, Miss Caroline seems annoyed that she is able to read. Why, according to Miss Caroline, should Scout stop learning to read on her own? Do you think she is genuinely concerned about Scout’s reading ability?

3. What does Jem’s invitation to Walter to join the Finch family for dinner indicate about Jem’s character?

4. Do you think the discovery of chewing gum in the knothole of the oak tree is important to this story? Why?

5. Analyze Miss Maudie’s attitude toward “Boo” Radley. Do you think her comments influence Scout’s opinion of him? If so, how?

Friday, March 7, 2008

Introduction

Hi my name is J.T. Hredzak and I am a graduate student at California University of Pennsylvania. I am an elementary education major with an undergrad in sport management. I play rugby and enjoy playing sports. I look forward to discussing and hearing your ideas. Talk to you soon.