Group Two

Final Thoughts

2008-04-25T14:04:00.002-04:00

Class, I want to say thank you for all your participation. I really enjoyed myself, interacting with all you was a great experience for me. I have read this book once before and I thought it was a great read. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. I thought the idea of being able to interact with students from around the country was a great idea. If any of you are in Pennsylvania you have to stop by to check out our campus! I wish all of you the best in your future endeavours.
Brian Oddi

Final Thoughts

2008-04-20T21:27:00.002-04:00

This was the first time I read this book and I really enjoyed it. I thought the blog was an interesting way to share information about the book and to connect to a lot of different people across the U.S. I liked reading what you all thought as you read the book at the same time I was reading it. All of you had a lot of insight into the book and made good remarks to the questions posted. I hope you enjoyed participating in this blog!!!!

Final Thoughts

2008-04-20T16:18:00.002-04:00

I would like to take a moment to thank you all for participating in this blog. It was a wonderful experience for me and I learned a lot from all of you. I really enjoyed this story. This was the first time I had ever read the book. It is a book that I would use with my own students. Thank you so much and have a great summer. Good luck.

Final Reflections

2008-04-19T19:17:00.002-04:00

This has been a very enjoyable experience for me. The first time I read this book was in 9th grade. Reading To Kill a Mockingbird from a teacher's perspective was much different. I enjoyed the opportunity to discuss the novel with all of you. Have a great remainder of the school year...keep reading!

Final Thoughts

2008-04-19T17:11:00.003-04:00

What a lovely experience this has been for me. I have never blogged before, but it was much more enjoyable than I imagined. The first time I read To Kill A Mockingbird was in the 9th grade. Having the opportunity to read it again and have such great discussions with all of you has been a pleasure. Good Luck with the rest of your school year and continue reading!

Final Thoughts

2008-04-19T11:37:00.002-04:00

I have truly enjoyed reading To Kill a Mockingbird with all of you. It was interesting for me to read this book with a different perspective in mind. Instead of reading for my own understanding, I was reading to look for possible misunderstandings that other readers might have with the text. This story is full of complicated ideas, feelings, and events, but I think that is why it is such a classic piece of literature. There are so many viewpoints that the reader must consider, but ultimately in the end it is up to you what you choose to believe. I have really enjoyed this experience and I hope the rest of you have too!

Final Reflection

2008-04-18T19:36:00.002-04:00

I really enjoyed reading this book. I remember reading the book when I was in high school and enjoying it. This time when I read it, I looked at the situations in a different way. I feel that it is a wonderful description of what life was like during that time period. It helps put the reader in the shoes of different characters. I hope that everyone enjoyed participating in the blog.

Final Thoughts

2008-04-18T17:00:00.001-04:00

Overall I really enjoyed reading To Kill a Mockingbird. I thought the book was well written. When I read this book in high school I did not appreciate it as much as I did the second time around. I would read it again for pleasure. I think it is a good book for people to read. The story really opened my eyes to how things were in the 1930’s regarding prejudice and discrimination. I hope everyone enjoyed reading this story as much as I did.

ch.26-31

2008-04-17T17:14:00.002-04:00

ch.26

What are your feelings towards how the black folks were treated in Maycomb?

ch. 27

What three things happened in Maycomb by the middle of October?

ch. 28

The quote "Don't look ahead, Scout, " was said in the beginning of the chapter why was this said and what were the kids doing?

ch. 29.

The phrase "if we followed our feelings all the time we'd be like cats chasin their tails" was said in this chapter by Mr.Tate. What does this phrase mean to you?

ch. 30.

We see that Mr.Tate was waving a switchblade in this chapter, where did he get it from and why did he want it?

31.

Did you agree with the way this story ended? why or why not?

ch.21-25

2008-04-14T12:22:00.002-04:00

ch.21

Why was the courtroom soo quite? Please explain in detail your thoughts and opinions?

ch.22

What do you think was going on in Bob Ewell's mind when he spat in Atticus face?

ch.23

What would you have done if you were Atticus when Bob spat in his face?

ch.24

Miss Jean Louise makes a comment to the question asked "where are your britches today"?
What did she say and what did she mean?

ch.25

This is a very short chapter and in it we see the verdict of Tom appear again, was this a fair verdict by 12 good men? How do you feel about this situation?

Chapters 26-31 Questions

2008-04-13T18:46:00.002-04:00

Chapter 26 Question

Why do you think Jem became so mad when Scout started talking about the trial?

Chapter 27 Question

Why does Bob Ewell have a chip on his shoulder with everyone that had something to do with the trial of Tom Robinson?

Chapter 28 Question

Who do you think attacked Jem and Scout? Why do you think this person wanted to attack them?

Chapter 29 Question

When Scout first saw Boo Radley, how do you think she felt? How would you have felt if you were Scout?

Chapter 30 Question

Now that we have met Boo Radley, does Scout think any differently of him now? In what ways?

Chapter 31 Question

Scout needs to be comforted int his chapter. How did Atticus provide that for her?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-13T18:30:00.001-04:00

Chapter 26
How does the way Hitler treats the Jews relate to the way the black folks are treated in Maycomb County?

Chapter 27
Bob Ewell has been harassing Helen Robinson. What does this show of his character and his morals? Is he a good man?

Chapter 28
What happened under the tree to Scout and Jem on the way back from the pageant at the high school?

Chapter 29
How does Scout figure out the country man in the corner is Boo Radley? What evidence did she use to figure it out?

Chapter 30
Explain why Atticus and Mr. Tate were arguing on the front porch on Halloween night.

Chapter 31
What is significant about the way Scout acts toward Boo Radley at the end of the book? How have her actions changed since the beginning of the book?

Chapters #26 - 31

2008-04-13T18:13:00.003-04:00

I appologize to the members of my group. I just realized that I posted a question for Chapter #26 in my last group of questions (Chapters 21-25). I hope that I didn't confuse anyone by posting that question a week prematurely. Since I asked a Chapter #26 question last week, I will start this week off with the question that I meant to ask for Chapter #25. Sorry for the confusion!

Chapter #25
How does Maycomb react to the news of Tom's death? Comment on the idea that Tom's death was “typical”.

Chapter #27
Why, according to Atticus, does Bob Ewell bear a grudge? Which people does Ewell see as his enemies, and why?

Chapter #28
Why had Atticus not brought a chair for the man in the corner? Who might this stranger be?

Chapter #29
What explanation does Atticus give for Bob Ewell's attack?

Chapter #30
Why does Heck Tate insist that Bob Ewell's death was self-inflicted? In what way is this partly true?

Chapter #31
How much of a surprise is it fo find what Boo Radley is really like? Has the story before this point prepared the reader for this discovery?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-12T17:47:00.002-04:00

Chapter 26
Why does Harper Lee bring up democracy in this chapter?

Chapter 27
If given the opportunity, would Bob Ewell have hurt Helen Robinson?

Chapter 28
Should Atticus have attended the play with his children? Why did he think it was ok to let them go alone?

Chapter 29
How does Mr. Tate help Atticus in this chapter?

Chapter 30
We finally meet Boo Radley in this chapter. Is he the character that you imagined him to be?

Chapter 31
How does Atticus provide so much comfort for Scout in this chapter and throughout the book?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-12T11:37:00.003-04:00

Chapter 26:
Why did Jem become so furious when Scout mentioned the trial?
Chapter 27:
Who do you think was trying to rob Mr. Tate?
Chapter 28:
Who do you think was after Jem and Scout? What makes you think that?
Chapter 29:
On page 269, what would you say Mr. Tate is trying to describe Mr. Ewell as?
Chapter 30:
How does Scout's impression of Boo Radley change?
Chapter 31:
On page 278, Scout says, "...we had given him nothing, and it made me sad." Do you think that the children had really given nothing to Boo Radley?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-12T10:13:00.003-04:00

Chapter 26
1.) Why did Jem get so mad when Scout mentioned the trial again, even though it was months later?

Chapter 27
2.) In the chapter Aunt Alexandria says that she thinks Bob Ewell has a grudge against everyone that was associated with the trial. Do you think Aunt Alexandria is right? Explain.

Chapter 28
3.) Who do you think is the person that followed and attacked Jem and Scout? What clues lead you to that person?

Chapter 29
4.) How do you think Scout feels when she sees Boo Radley for the first time?

Chapter 30
5.) We know from chapter 28 that Bob Ewell was found under a tree, dead, with a knife stuck under his ribs. Atticus is adamant in thinking Jem killed Bob Ewell. Heck Tate tells Atticus that Bob fell on his knife. If you were Atticus would you think you son killed Bob or try and protect him against the law? Explain.

Chapter 31
6.) How does Scout imagine the would from Boo Radley’s prospective?

Chapters 26-31

2008-04-11T20:18:00.002-04:00

Chapter 26
What connections were you able to make between what Scout said about Hitler and the people of Maycomb?

Chapter 27
On page 248, the author talked about Judge Taylor seeing a shadow outside his house. Who do you think was at his house? Why do you think this person was there?

Chapter 28
Aunt Alexandria had brought Scout her overalls to put on when she got out of her costume. Why did she bring her them? Do you see her in a different way now?

Chapter 29
Why did Atticus suggest that they sit outside on the porch instead of in the house?

Chapter 30
On page 276 Scout said, "Well, it'd be sort of like shootin' a mockingbird, wouldn't it?'
What did Scout mean by this statement?

Chapter 31
Atticus read Scout some of the book The Grey Ghost. What connections were you able to make between Stoner's boy and Boo Radley?

Chapter 21-25

2008-04-09T13:25:00.002-04:00

Chapter #21
What did you think was happening when Reverend Sykes says "Miss Jean Louise, stand up. Your father's passin'."?

Chapter #22
Why do you think the black folks of Maycomb sent food to Atticus even though Tom was found guilty?

Chapter #23
Why are Jem and Scout afraid for Atticus' safety? Do you think something will happen to him?

Chapter #24
Why do you think Tom tried to escape from prison even after the gaurds fired warning shots?

Chapter #25
How do you think Tom's wife Helen and his children will survive now that Tom is gone?

Chapters 21-25 Questions

2008-04-07T20:58:00.002-04:00

Chapter 21 Question

Why do you think Atticus allowed the children to return to the trial even though Calpurnia and Aunt Alexandra felt differently?

Chapter 22 Question

How do you think Atticus felt after Bob Ewell spat in his face?

Chapter 23 Question

In this chapter we learn that Bob Ewell threatens Atticus' life. Why is Atticus so understanding even though Bob Ewell is so rude?

Chapter 24 Question

Why do you think Tom tried escaping from jail? If you were Tom, would you have tried escaping from jail? Why or why not?

Chapter 25 Question

Why do you think Atticus takes Calpurnia with him to tell Helen Robinson about Tom's death?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-06T20:19:00.003-04:00

Chapter 21
Why was Atticus so greatly respected by the community even though he lost the case for Tom?
Are you surprised by the verdict?

Chapter 22
Jem is filled with overwhelming emotion in this chapter. How is Jem's character portrayed in this chapter due to the verdict?

Chapter 23
"Jem, see if you can stand in Bob Ewall's shoes a minute." Atticus says this to Jem after Bob threatens Atticus' life. Why is Atticus giving Bob the benefit of the doubt, even though Bob is being so nasty.

Chapter 24
What big event happens in this chapter?

Chapter 25
Why do you think Atticus takes Cal with him to let Helen know about Tom?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-06T20:02:00.001-04:00

Chapter 21
After hearing the testimonies do you agree with the verdict the jury decided? What evidence was provided to support your decision?

Chapter 22
Bob Ewell spits in Atticus's face and says "he'd get him if it took the rest of his life." What do you take from this threat?

Chapter 23
Atticus just walks away after Bob Ewell spits in his face. Will this make Bob angrier at Atticus? Do you think Bob thought that was respectful or rude?

Chapter 24
Tom Robinson had another opportunity to be freed from jail. Why do you think he tried to escape before the higher court had a chance to review his case?

Chapter 25
Bob Ewell said in response to Tom’s death, “one down and about two to go.” What do you think this means and why did Jem get so upset about what was said?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-06T10:38:00.002-04:00

Chapter 21
Cal and Aunt Alexandria didn't think the children should return to the trial. However, Atticus said they were allowed to come back. Why do you feel they had different opinions about this?

Chapter 22
Miss Maudie invited Jem, Scout, and Dill into her house for pound cake. However, she only had two small cakes. She gave the small cakes to Scout and Dill and cut Jem a piece from the big cake. Why did she do this?

Chapter 23
On page 227 Scout said,
"I think there's just one kind of folks. Folks."

What did Scout mean by this? Do you agree with her? Why or why not?

Chapter 24
Tom Robinson tried to escape from the jail. He ended up getting shot and killed. If you were Tom, would you have tried to escape? Do you feel that Tom lost hope in Atticus? Or do you think Tom lost in the judicial system?

Chapter 25
On page 241, Mr. Ewell's comments on Tom's death had reached Maycomb. He said,
"...it made one down and about two more to go."
What did he mean by this comment?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-04T18:15:00.002-04:00

Chapter 21:
Was the verdict what you thought it would be? In what way(s)?
Chapter 22:
How do you think Atticus would react to Mr. Ewell spatting in his face?
Chapter 23:
Jem says that he thought Boo Radley wanted to stay in the house. Why would he want to?
Chapter 24:
Why do you think Atticus took Calpurnia to tell Mrs. Robinson about Tom's death?
Chapter 25:
What did Dill compare Mrs. Robinson's falling to? What literacy device did the author use?

Chapters 21-25

2008-04-04T16:37:00.001-04:00

Chapter 21
1.) In this chapter Calpurnia walks into the courtroom to give Atticus a note. The note says Jem, Scout, and Dill have not been home for most of the day. We learn Calpurnia is mad at the children. Why did shy tell Jem, Scout, and Dill, “Shame of yourself?”

Chapter 22
2.) How do you think Atticus handled Bob Ewell spitting in his face? Explain

Chapter 23
3.) Jem and Atticus talk about the law and Tom Robinson’s case. Do you think Tom Robinson’s case has had an effect on what Jem might want to be when he gets older? Explain.

Chapter 24
4.) Scout is in a dress and attends Aunt Alexandra’s missionary circle. Do you think this is the beginning of Scout becoming a lady? Expain.

Chapter 25
5.) Jem told Scout not to kill the bug because it did not do anything to her. What or who was Jem referring to?

ch.16-20

2008-04-03T10:33:00.002-04:00

ch.16

If you were a juror on the Robinson trial, what would be going through your head in this chapter?

ch.17

As we move through chapter 17 Tom Robinson's trail, explain how you feel towards him? Do you feel he is innocent, he feels cheated, ashamed, sad, happy...?

ch.18

Mr.Gilmer asked Mayella to tell the jury in her own words what happened on the evening of November, put yourself in Mayella's shoes. What would you have said?

ch.19

In this chapter it states "Tom's black velvet skin had begun to shine, and he ran his hand over his face." What is being described here and what is happening?

ch.20

Mr.Dolphus Raymond was an evil man, but Scout still went with him reluctantly in the beginning of the chapter, why?

Chapters #21 - 25

2008-04-02T20:31:00.002-04:00

Chapter #21
What is unusual about how long it takes the jury to reach a verdict?

Chapter #22
Why does Bob Ewell feel so angry with Atticus? Do you think his threat is a real one, and how might he try to “get” Atticus?

Chapter #23
At the end of this chapter, Jem forms a new theory about why Boo Radley has never left his house in years. What is this? How likely is it to be true, in your opinion?

Chapter #24
What is your opinion of the Maycomb ladies, as depicted in this chapter?

Chapter #25
In her lesson on Hitler, Miss Gates says that “we don't believe in persecuting anyone”. What seems odd about this claim?

Chapter 16-20

2008-04-01T12:16:00.002-04:00

Ch #16
How do you think Atticus can remain so positive about Mr. Cunningham when he tried to attack him the night before?

Ch #17
If you were the sheriff, would you have called the doctor to check on Mayella? What might have been a reason for the doctor to not have been called?

Ch# 18
Why is the fact that Tom Robinson had a crippled arm so important to Scout?

Ch #19
Mr. Raymond says to Dill "you aren't thin-hided, it just makes you sick doesn't it?" What does this mean in relation to Dill being upset?

Ch #20
At the very end of the chapter Calpurnia walks down the aisle towards Atticus. What do you think could be so important that she would interrupt the trial for?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-30T20:46:00.001-04:00

Chapter 16
Explain the quote below and what it means in the story.
“The court appointed Atticus to defend him. Atticus aimed to defend him.”

Chapter 17
Atticus keeps asking the witnesses if a doctor saw Mayella after the attack. Why would this information be so important to know? How could that affect the testimony of the witnesses?

Chapter 18
After hearing Mayella’s testimony do you believe her and what she has to say? What evidence has been proven to support your decision?

Chapter 19
How was the way Mr. Gilmer asked questions to the witnesses different from the way Atticus asked questions to the witnesses? Did they both treat the witnesses in the same manner?

Chapter 20
Mr. Raymond confesses to Scout that he is not a heavy drinker and just pretends to be so the town will have a reason for thinking poorly of his lifestyle. Do you think he is being brave or cowardly by acting this way?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-30T18:51:00.003-04:00

Chapter 16
Why do you think Reverend Sykes invited Jem, Scout, and Dill to sit in the African American balcony?

Chapter 17
Atticus had Mr. Ewell write his name. Why do you feel he did this?

Chapter 18
Mayella said that Atticus was mocking her. Why do you think she felt this way? Why do you think Atticus told her that it was okay for her to cry?

Chapter 19
At the end of this chapter, Mr. Dolphus Raymond said to Dill, "You aren't thin-hided, it just makes you sick, doesn't it?" What does he mean by this? If you were Dill, how would you have felt?

Chapter 20
Why do you think Atticus unbuttoned his vest and loosened his tie? Do you feel this was unprofessional?

Chapters 16-20 Questions

2008-03-29T21:51:00.002-04:00

Chapter 16 Question

Where did Jem, Scout, and Dill sit at the trial for Tom Robinson? Why do you think they sat there?

Chapter 17 Question

What do you think was Atticus' reason for asking Bob Ewell to write his name while at the trial?

Chapter 18 Question

After hearing all the evidence, do you think the jury will convict Tom Robinson? Explain.

Chapter 19 Question

We heard Tom Robinson testify in this chapter. At this point, what do you think of him? Do you think he is guilty or innocent? Why?

Chapter 20 Question

Atticus feels that Mayella has done something wrong. What do you think it is?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-29T11:05:00.001-04:00

Chapter 16
1.) Why did Jem, Scout, and Dill sit in the balcony where the black people sit? Do you think they have an open mind towards black people unlike the people of Maycomb County? Explain.

Chapter 17
2.) Do you think it was smart for Atticus to have Bob Ewell write his name while being cross-examined? What was the reason for having Bob Ewell write his name?

Chapter 18
3.) How was Mayella Ewell’s home life? Why was it important for the jury to hear about her home life?

Chapter 19
4.) After hearing Tom Robinson testify, what kind of man do you think he is? If you were on the jury would you think he was guilty or innocent? Explain.

Chapter 20
5.) Why did Mr. Dolphus Raymond drink coca-cola out of a paper bag and act like he was drunk?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-28T17:14:00.002-04:00

Chapter 16:
Why do you think Atticus didn't tell Scout and Jem that he had been appointed to defend Tom Robinson?
Chapter 17:
If you were a juror in this trial, what would you be thinking at this point?
Chapter 18:
At this point in the trial, do you think Tom Robinson is innocent or guilty? What evidence do you have to support it?
Chapter 19:
Why was Dill so "sick?"
Chapter 20:
Why is Calpurnia walking straight toward Atticus?

Chapters 16-20

2008-03-27T18:14:00.003-04:00

Chapter 16
Why is being considered a "mixed child" so troublesome?

Chapter 17:
During the trial, Atticus repeatedly asked the witnesses if anyone ever called a doctor to help Mayella. Why was this fact so important in the case?

Chapter 18:
As Atticus is questioning Mayella, he seems to be getting at something. At this point in the story, do you think Atticus will be able to save Tom Robinson from a guilty verdict?

Chapter 19:
In this chapter, we heard from Tom Robinson. What kind of man do you think he is?

Chapter 20:
Atticus has a very strong closing argument. If you were a jury member, how would Atticus' final words reflect on your verdict?

Chapters # 16 - 20

2008-03-27T16:39:00.002-04:00

Chapter #16
How does Reverend Sykes help the children see and hear the trial? Do you think it is appropriate for the children to be at the trial?

Chapter #17
Why does Atticus ask Bob Ewell to write out his name? What does the jury see when he does this?

Chapter #18
Is Mayella like her father or different from him? In what ways?

Chapter #19
What made Tom visit the Ewell's house in the first place?

Chapter #20
What, according to Atticus, is the thing that Mayella has done wrong?

chapter 11-15

2008-03-26T20:25:00.002-04:00

ch.11

In this chapter if you were Jem and Scout would you have treated Mrs.Dubois the same way they did? Why or why not?

ch.12

For this chapter put yourself in Calpurnia's shoes. Tell me from reading the story how your relationship would be with Scout, either positive or negative and why?

ch.13

In this chapter the phrase "Do you think I'll end up costing the family five hundred dollars?" appears, what do you think was meant by the phrase and who said it?

ch.14

In this chapter prejudice comes to the forefront in numerous ways. Can you list one way prejudice appears to the reader?

ch.15

List two things that come to mind in this chapter when you think of the name Tom Robinson?

chapter 11-15

2008-03-25T11:01:00.000-04:00

Ch# 11
Were you surprised at how Atticus reacted to what Jem had done at Mrs. Dubose’s house? If so, what did you think his reaction would be towards Jem?
Ch# 12
How do you think Jem and Scout felt being the only white people in Cal’s church? Do you think this experience could make them more aware of how the blacks in Maycomb feel?
Ch#13
Why do you think Scout is hesitant about Aunt Alexandra moving in with them?
Ch#14
Explain the dilemma Atticus is having between his feelings for Cal and Alexandra? How do his feelings towards Cal differ from how Alexandra sees her?
Ch#15
Why do you think the townspeople are against Atticus for representing Tom? How might the circumstances be different is Tom was white, and accused of the same crime?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-24T20:26:00.001-04:00

Chapter 11
After reading this chapter do you feel Jem and Scout treated Mrs. Dubose fairly? Would they have been nicer to her had they known she was sick?

Chapter 12
Explain the relationship between Calpurnia and Scout. How has it changed since the beginning of the book? Has it gotten better or worse?

Chapter 13
Atticus has brought his sister, Alexandra, to live in his house for some time. Describe how the children have felt towards her since she has been in their house.

Chapter 14
What did you think was under Scout’s bed? How would you have reacted when you found what was under the bed?

Chapter 15
Two different groups of men came to see Atticus. What were some of the differences between these groups of men and the way they visited Atticus?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-24T13:56:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11
On page 112 Atticus says to Jem,
"I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand."

What do you think real courage is? Why?

Chapter 12
Why do you think Scout wants to spend time with Cal at her house?

Chapter 13
One page 134 Atticus says,
"Don't worry about anything. It's not time to worry."

What do you think Atticus is talking about?

Chapter 14
Dill ran away from his home. He said that his family didn't need him. Why do you think he feels this way? Have you ever felt like this?

Chapter 15
Atticus did not yell at Jem when they were getting ready to leave the jail. Instead he showed him a sign of affection. Why do you think he reacted this way to Jem disobeying him?

Chapters 11-15 Questions

2008-03-24T12:58:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11 Question

In chapter 11, we are introduced to the mean old lady named Mrs. Dubose. Why is she so mean to Jem and Scout every time they walk by her?

Chapter 12 Question

Why did Jem and Scout go to Calpurnia's church and where they treated any differently than going to their own church?

Chapter 13 Question

Aunt Alexandra comes to live with Jem and Scout in this chapter. How do you think the children feel about this change and why?

Chapter 14 Question

In this chapter, Aunt Alexandra wants Atticus to fire Calpurnia. Why do you think she wants Calpurnia gone and how do you think Atticus feels about being asked to do such a thing?

Chapter 15 Question

In this chapter it states that Atticus was sitting outside the jail. Why do you think he is doing this?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-23T23:31:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11
At the end of chapter 11, Atticus told Jem that he wanted him "to see what real courage is." What is your definition of courage? How was Mrs. Dubose courageous?
Chapter 12
How does the relationship between Scout and Jem change?
Chapter 13
Scout was not pleased with Aunt Alexandra's visit/stay. Do you think her attitude will change? In what way?
Chapter 14
Do you think Jem did the right thing by telling Atticus that Dill was in their house? What would you have done in that situation?
Chapter 15
Why was Atticus sitting outside of the jail? Based on your response, what kind of person would you say Atticus is?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-23T20:39:00.001-04:00

Chapter 11
1.) Describe why you think Mrs. Dubose left Jem a box with a single white camellia?

Chapter 12
2.) When Scout finds out that Tom Robinson is being accused of rape by Bob Ewell she doesn’t know why anyone would believe him. Why does Scout think no one should believe Bob Ewell?

Chapter 13
3.) Why does Aunt Alexandra come and stay with Jem and Scout? How do you think Jem and Scout feel about Aunt Alexandra moving in with them? How would you feel if the same thing happened to you?

Chapter 14
4.) Why does Alexandra want Atticus to fire Calpurnia? Does Atticus want to fire Calpurnia? Expain.

Chapter 15
5.) When Scout looks at the men that were around Atticus she realizes one of them was Walter Cunningham’s father from her class. Describe why you think Mr. Cunningham is ashamed to talk to Scout and tells his companions to leave after talking to her?

Chapters 11 - 15

2008-03-22T13:33:00.002-04:00

Chapter #11
What request does Mrs. Dubose make of Jem? Is this a fair punishment for his “crime”?

Chapter #12
Explain why Calpurnia speaks differently in the Finch household, and among her neighbours at church.

Chapter #13
Comment on Aunt Alexandra's ideas about breeding and family. Why does Atticus tell them to forget it? Who is right, do you think?

Chapter #14
Why does Alexandra think Atticus should dismiss Calpurnia? How does Atticus respond to the suggestion?

Chapter #15
What persuades the lynching-party to give up their attempt on Tom's life?

Chapters 11-15

2008-03-22T13:20:00.002-04:00

Chapter 11
In this Chapter, we meet Mrs. Dubose, a grouchy old lady who isn't very fond of the Finch family. Why is she always screaming at Jem and Scout when they walk by and why does she seem to be so angry?

Chapter 12
How were Jem and Scout treated when they went to Cal's church?

Chapter 13
Aunt Alexandra and Scout seem to have difficulty getting along. How do their personalities clash and why does Aunt Alexandra desperately want to make Scout into a lady?

Chapter 14
Scout asks Atticus what it means when someone is raped. Atticus replies saying, "rape was carnal knowledge of a female by force and without consent". Do you think it is appropriate for Atticus to share this with his young daughter?

Chapter 15
Do you think Atticus is the right man for the job of defending Tom Robinson on such horrific charges?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-16T23:10:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6
Jem has a tough decision to make the night he looses his pants in the Radley yard. If he goes back to get them he could get hurt, If he doesn't have them in the morning his father would know what he did and he would be punished. If you were in Jem's position, what would you have done?

Chapter 7
Jem and Scout decide to write a note to the person who is leaving items in the tree. If you were to write a letter to this person, what would it say?

Chapter 8
Many people in Maycomb had never seen snow before in their lives. If you were able to teach the townspeople something to do in the snow, what would it be? What would you want to share with the town that is special only when there is snow?

Chapter 9
Explain why Atticus would have wanted Scout to hear his discussion with his brother Jack.

Chapter 10
Why was the day Atticus shot Tim Johnson significant? Did anyone learn anything from this event?

chapters 6-10

2008-03-16T20:37:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6

Dill and Jem decide to "peep in the window with the loose shutter to see if they could get a look at Boo Radley." Scout discourages them from going but ends up going with them. Why did Scout go with them? If you were Scout in this situation would you have went?

Chapter 7

After Scout and Jem find the figures carved in soap and realize who they were one word came to Scouts mind out of fear. What does the word "hoodooing" mean?

Chapter 8

We see a very unusual phenomenon in Alabama, tell me what that event was and when the last time it happened in Maycomb county?

Chapter 9

Scout and Jem viewed Christmas with mixed feelings, what were they? How do you view Christmas, any similarities with Scout and Jem?

Chapter 10

Why was it so wrong to kill a mockingbird? who feels that it is so wrong and why?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-16T19:10:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6
On pages 56 and 57, Jem decided to go and get his pants back. Why do you think he was so determined to get them back? If you were Jem, would you have gone to get them back? Why or why not?

Chapter 7
Jem and Scout found two figures carved out of soap in the tree. They realized the figures were of them. Who do you think carved the figures? How would the person know all the specific details about them?

Chapter 8
Miss Maudie's house caught on fire. How do you think this happened? Why did Atticus, Jem, and Scout have to leave their house? Why did Scout shudder when Atticus started a fire in the kitchen stove?

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."
What do you think Scout meant by this?

Chapter 10
On page 93, the author wrote that "Jem gulped like a goldfish,..." to describe the dog.
What literacy device is this? Why did the author use it?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-15T22:53:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6 Question

(6) Why was Jem so quiet for days after he had retrieved his pants from the Radley's fence?
Explain.

Chapter 7 Question

(7) Who do you think sewed Jem's pants after he tore them on the Radley's fence? Why do you
think this person did that for him?

Chapter 8 Question

(8) How would you characterize Boo Radley after he placed a blanket on Scout's shoulders when
her and Jem were watching Miss Maudie's house burn?

Chapter 9 Question

(9) Why do you think Atticus is defending Tom Robinson even though he knows he won't win the
case?

Chapter 10 Question

(10) What was the reason Atticus gave Jem and Scout for it being a sin to kill a mockingbird?

Chapters 6 - 10

2008-03-15T22:07:00.002-04:00

Chapter #6
Why does Scout disapprove of Jem's and Dill's plan of looking in at one of the Radleys' windows?

Chapter #7
Can you find any evidence that Jem is beginning to understand more than Scout about Boo Radley? What do you think this is?

Chapter #8
When Atticus asks Scout about the blanket around her shoulders, what does Jem realize?

Chapter #9
How well does Atticus feel he should defend Tom Robinson? Is it usual for (white) lawyers to do their best for black clients in Alabama at this time?

Chapter #10
In this chapter Atticus tells his children that “it's a sin to kill a mockingbird”. What reason does he give for saying this?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-15T20:00:00.002-04:00

Chapter #6
If you were Jem, would you have gone back for your pants? Explain why you would or wouldn't have gone back to get them.

Chapter #7
Do you think the Radleys knew who had been on their property? What message do you think they were sending Jem by mending and folding his pants?

Chapter #8
What do you think of Jem and Scout's snowman? How would you have made your first snowman ever?

Chapter #9
Atticus is defending Tom Robinson, even though he knows he can not win. Why do you think he tells Scout "I could never ask you to mind me again", if he did not take the case?

Chapter #10
How do Jem and Scout feel about their father Atticus?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-15T10:26:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6:
In this chapter, Dill and Jem are still thinking of ways to be around the Radley house. What do Dill and Jem decide to do in this chapter and what happens to Jem's pants?

Chapter 7:
Who do you think folded and sewed Jem's pants? Why would this person do this?

Chapter 8:
In this chapter, Miss Maudie's house is on fire. The neigbor's help and Jem and Scout watch from a safe distance. Atticus tells them that Boo Radley placed a blanket on Scout's shoulders to keep her warm. Why would such an evil, scary man do such a nice thing for a little girl? At this point in the book, what are your thoughts on Boo Radley?

Chapter 9:
"Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started it is no reason for us not to try to win".
Atticus is defending Tom Robinson, even though he knows he won't win. What does this quote mean?

Chapter 10:
In this chapter, we learn that Atticus has the deadest shot in Maycomb county. Why does he keep this information from his kids? Is he proud of this skill?

Chapters 6-10

2008-03-15T08:53:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6
If Scout, Jem and Dill were so fascinated with the Radleys all this time, why do you think they waited until Dill's last day in Maycomb to look through the shutter?
Chapter 7
Scout says she "tried to climb into Jem's skin and walk around in it." Have you ever been advised to do the same? If so, how did you handle the situation? Did it help you better understand? Did it help Scout better understand?
Chapter 8
What did the people of Maycomb blame for the drastic change in weather? How did that make Scout and Jem feel?
Chapter 9
Scout often finds herself "fighting" to defend her father. Have you ever had to defend someone close to you? How did you handle it? Do you think Scout handled it appropriately? If not, what could she have done differently?
Chapter 10
Scout and Jem seemed to be disappointed with Atticus. What changed their minds? How did they see their father after that?

Chapter 6-10 Questions

2008-03-14T21:11:00.002-04:00

Chapter 6
1.) Even thought Atticus told Dill, Jem, and Scout to stay away from the Radley house, why would they want to try and go back especially at night?

Chapter 7
2.)Who do you think put the soap, gum, spelling bee metal, and old pocket watch in the tree? Why do you think Nathan filled the knothole with cement?

Chapter 8
3.) How do you think Boo Radley could put the blanket on Scout without her knowing?

Chapter 9
4.) If you were Scout would you have handled Francis the same or differently? Explain.

Chapter 10
5.) Would you be embarrassed of Atticus like Jem and Scout? Why or why not?

2008-03-10T18:00:00.001-04:00

Chapter #1
What would you think if you had a neighbor that never came out of their house? How might your imagination play a role in your perception of this neighbor?
Chapter #2
What do you remember about your first day of school? How was Scout's first day different than your first day of school?
Chapter #3
Cal seems to have taken over the mother's role in the family, why do you think she is so hard on Scout all of the time?
Chapter #4
Do you think someone is leaving these items in the tree to be found, or are they trying to hide them from others? At this point in the story, who do you think is leaving items in the tree?
Chapter #5
Why do you think Atticus is so angry when he catches the children trying to pass a note to Boo?

Introduction

2008-03-10T13:47:00.001-04:00

Let me first start by introducing myself, my name is Sonnie Fisher and I am A California State University Graduate Student. I have an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and am working on my Master's Degree as a Reading Specialist. This is very exciting to be able to work with you on this book. I never read To Kill A Mockingbird prior to this experience, so I am reading it with you for the first time. This should be exciting for all of us involved, and I am looking forward to all it has to offer us.

ch. 1-5

2008-03-09T23:54:00.002-04:00

Chapter 1-

Compare or contrast the Radley's with Scout, Jem, or Dill.

Chapter 2-

In this chapter we get a better feel for Scout. In your opinion, tell why or why not Scout is different from the other children?

Chapter 3-

Do you feel that the Ewell's receive special considerations? explain in detail why or why not.

Chapter 4-

Scout has to pass Boo Radley's house by herself every afternoon. What does she notice as she passes by and what does she do?

Chapter 5-

Miss Maudie is said to love everything that grew in God's green earth, even the weeds. However, there is one exception. Can you explain what the exception may be?

Chapters 1-5

2008-03-09T20:40:00.001-04:00

Chapter 1:
In the book Nathan Radley took over the job from his father of watching his brother Arthur. Why do you think it is so important for someone to watch over Arthur? Do you think this will play a major role in the book?

Chapter 2:
How does Scout’s class compare with your own? Why would Miss Caroline not want her students to know how to read and write before starting school?

Chapter 3:
Should Miss Caroline have let Burris Ewell leave school? What would you have done in that situation?

Chapter 4:
Scout finds a gift in the tree in the Radley lot. Was it a good idea for her to keep what she found? Who do think is putting the gifts in the tree?

Chapter 5:
Compare how Dil Harris has changed since first being introduced in the book. Do you think he is the same as he was his first summer in Maycomb?

Ch 1 - 5

2008-03-09T14:38:00.002-04:00

Chapter 1 - Jem and Dill seem to have a competitive spirit. Why do you think this is?

Chapter 2 - Scout is able to read very well and this is only her first day of school. However, Miss Caroline isn't very happy about this? Why do you think this is?

Chapter 3 - Jem invites Walter Cunningham over for lunch. Why does he do this and why does Calpurnia get so upset with Scout during the meal?

Chapter 4 - In this chapter Scout begins to discover tiny gifts being left behind inside a knot hole in a tree that belongs to the Radley's. Do you think these things are for Scout and if so, who is leaving them in the hole?

Chapter 5 - Do you have any thoughts as to who Boo Radley is and why he doesn't like to come out of his house?

Chapters 1-5

2008-03-09T14:11:00.002-04:00

Chapter 1
Why are Scout, Jem and Dill so intrigued by the Radley family? Do you think whatever it is they want to know about the family will ever be revealed to them?
Chapter 2
Why is Scout so eager to start school? Do her feelings about school stay the same or change after her first day? In what way(s)?
Chapter 3
According to Scout, the Cunninghams "never took anything they can't pay back." Why, then, do you think Walter decided to join the Finch children for lunch?
Chapter 4
If Jem was so worried about Scout taking the gum from the knot-hole in the tree, why did he begin to join her in collecting items from the hole?
Chapter 5
Scout reveals to the readers a noise that she heard when she rolled to the Radley house: "Through all the head-shaking, quelling of nausea and Jem-yelling, I had heard another sound, so low I could not have heard it from the sidewalk. Someone inside the house was laughing."
What do you think this noise was? Why didn't Scout tell anyone about the noise?

Chapters 1-5

2008-03-08T20:25:00.002-05:00

Chapter 1
On page 11, Scout described Mr. Radley as "...a thin leathery man with colorless eyes, so colorless they did not reflect light. His cheekbones were sharp and his mouth was wide, with a thin upper lip and a full lower lip."
How does this description of Mr. Radley help you visualize him as a character? What sort of character do you think he is based on this description? Try to draw a picture of him.

Chapter 2
On pages 20-22, Scout tries to help Walter Cunningham by explaining his situation to Miss Caroline. However, Miss Caroline disciplines Scout for it. Do you feel that Scout deserved to get hit on the hand with a ruler? Why or why not?

Chapter 3
On pages 27 and 28, Miss Caroline has another confrontation with a boy in the class. This time it is with Burris Ewell. Burris says somethings that make her cry. Do you think Burris had the right to say those things to her? Why or why not? Could he have handled the situation in a different way? What else could he have said? How would you have handled the situation if you were Burris?

Chapter 4
Scout found two pieces of gum in the tree by the Radley house. She choose to put them in her mouth and chew them. If you were Scout, what would you have done?

Chapter 5
Jem, Dill, and Scout made a fishing pole to try and put a note in the window of the Radley house for Boo. What else could they have tried to make to get the note in the window?

Chapters 1-5 Questions

2008-03-08T19:54:00.004-05:00

Chapter 1 Question

(1) Why do you think Jem ran away from the Radley house after he slapped it with his hand? What or who do you think he was afraid of?

Chapter 2 Question

(2) If you were Walter Cunningham, coming from a proud yet poor family, would you have let Miss Caroline give you lunch money? Why or why not?

Chapter 3 Question

(3) What do you think the Radley house symbolizes in this story? It is mentioned in every chapter at different points. When Jem and Scout invited Walter to their house for dinner, Walter hesitated, but then in front of the Radley house he said he would join them. Why do you think the Radley house is always mentioned in this story?

Chapter 4 Question

(4) Why do you think someone is leaving gifts in the hollow tree at the Radley house? Who do you think is leaving the gifts and why?

Chapter 5 Question

(5) If you were Jem, would you have gone to the side window of the Radley house with a note or would you have knocked on the front door to talk with Mr. Radley? Please explain.

Chapter 1-5 Questions

2008-03-08T10:19:00.003-05:00

Chapter 1
1.) What is Scout, Jem, and Dill’s fascination with Boo Bradly?

Chapter 2
2.) In chapter 2 Scout goes to the first grade. We learn that her teacher, Miss Caroline grows very frustrated with Scout because she has been educated at home. Why do you think Miss Caroline does not like that Scout was being educated at home and do you think this is a characteristic of a good teacher? Why or Why not?

Chapter 3
3.) Scout tells Atticus she does not feel good and does not want go to school anymore. She suggests that Atticus starts to teach her at home. Describe Scouts attitude towards school and Miss. Caroline. Do you think Miss Caroline has influenced Scout’s attitude towards learning? Why or why not?

Chapter 4
4.) When Scout is walking home from school she sees some tinfoil sticking out of a knothole in one of the Radleys’ oak trees. Scout reaches into the knothole and discovers two pieces of chewing gum. On the last day of school Scout and Jem find two old Indian-head pennies hidden in the same knothole where Scout found the gum. Do you think these items in the knothole will play a part later in the story and how?

Chapter 5
5.) Scout was talking about Author “Boo” Brandly to Miss. Maudie and she said: “The things that happen to people we never really know. What happens in houses behind closed doors, what secrets--.” Assuming the rest of the statement said “stays behind closed doors,” what does that quote mean?

Chapters 1-5

2008-03-08T09:45:00.003-05:00

Chapter #1
- Why does the Radley place fascinate Scout, Jem and Dill?

Chapter #2
- What do you think of Miss Caroline as a teacher? Can you find qualities that make her good and not so good at her job?

Chapter #3
- Atticus says that you never really understand a person “until you climb into his skin and walk around in it”.
What does this mean?
Do you think this will be an easy thing for Scout to learn?

Chapter #4
- What do you think might be the cause of laughter coming from inside the Radley house?

Chapter #5
- Scout claims that "Dill could tell the biggest ones (lies)" she ever heard.
Why might Dill have told such lies?

Intro

2008-03-07T19:03:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone,
My name is Eileen Dowd. I am from the great state of Connecticut, and have lived there all my life. As an undergraduate I attended Wagner College in New York and got my Bachelors degree in Psychology. I now attend Cal U of PA and am working on my masters in Elementary Education. I swam for 4 years as an undergrad and am currently the graduate assistant for the women`s swim team at Cal. I love to swim and have been for most of my life. I am really looking forward to reading this book with everyone because I have never read it before. I hear it is a great book and a classic and am looking forward to experiencing it with everyone.

Introduction

2008-03-07T18:57:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone,
My name is Teresa O'Neill, and I am currently getting my Master's Degree in Elementary Education with a Reading Specialist certification. I am attending California University of PA. I am planning on graduating this summer.
This is my fourth year teaching. I taught first grade for three years, and this is my first year teaching fourth grade. I was nervous to switch grades at first, but my students have been wonderful with helping me make the adjustment. I work at Propel which is a charter school in McKeesport, PA. I really enjoy teaching and learning about my students.
I am really looking forward to getting to know and learn from all of you. I read the book To Kill a Mockingbird when I was a freshman in high school. I remember being a little unsure if I would enjoy the book. However once I started reading it, I did not want to put it down!I am really looking forward to discussing this book with you.
Teresa O'Neill

Introduction

2008-03-07T15:32:00.004-05:00

Hello All! My name is Lauren and I am currently getting my Masters in Education/Reading Specialist at California University of Pennsylvania. I graduated from Penn State in 2005 with a degree in Elementary Education. I teach Kindergarten in a Private School and love my job. When I was in 9th grade, we read To Kill A Mockingbird and I loved it. I am looking forward to blogging with all of you!

Introduction:

2008-03-07T14:33:00.003-05:00

Hello Class,

I want to say hello to everyone, I am really looking forward to working with all of you. First, I am an elementary education major. I am doing my Master's degree in the evenings. During the day I am a Professor in the Department of Health Science and Sport Studies as well as the Director of Athletic Performance here at California University. I hold a Master's degree in Health Science from California University of PA and I am a team member with the National academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). I am a certified personal trainer (CPT) as well as a performance enhancement specialist (PES). I am currently working on a second master's degree in Education. I work with the Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis, Golf, Swim, Soccer, and Baseball teams for the University. I spent the summer of 2007 working with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I was able to work in work shops, fitness clubs, sports specific training facilities and in a classroom. In May of 2005 I was drafted into the Canadian Football League (CFL) by the Ottawa Renegades. In 2006 I then signed a two year contract with the Hamilton Tiger Cats (CFL). I teach Performance Enhancement Specialization and Current Health Issues at California University. I just recently got married to Michelle Noelani and enjoy spending time with her. I am very active in the weight room and enjoy working out and exploring new ideas and research in the field of Performance Enhancement. I also love working with others and helping students in any way possible.

Introduction

2008-03-06T11:50:00.002-05:00

My name is Gianna Oakes and I am a graduate student at California University of Pennsylvania. I am studying for my Reading Specialist degree. I am currectly working in an elementary school as a Reading Intervention teacher. I help students that have trouble reading. I love my job and I hope to continue working in this position. I am married and have two children. I have a son who is 5 years old and a daughter who is 4 years old. I already have a degree from college in elementary education. I hope to one day have my own kindergarten classroom. I work five days a week at my job and then I have night classes at the university three nights a week. It keeps me very busy. I look forward to communicating with you on this interesting book.

Introduction

2008-03-05T21:45:00.002-05:00

Hi! My name is Charisse Los. I am a 2004 graduate of California University of Pennsylvania with a BS in elementary education. Presently, I teach kindergarten and am working on my MEd with a Reading Specialist certification. I will graduate this May. The last time I read To Kill a Mockingbird was in ninth grade, so I am anxious to revisit it and see if I have the same perspective as I did then. I am looking forward to working with you and discussing our thoughts on this piece of literature.

Introduction

2008-03-05T21:28:00.006-05:00

Hi! My name is Jenna Fortuna. I graduated from California University of Pennsylvania in December with my BS in elementary education. I am now going for my masters degree in reading specialist. I am subbing at two school districts in the area and I also work as a receptionist at a car dealership. The last time I read To Kill a Mockingbird was in high school. I am really excited to start reading it again because I appreciate reading a lot more now. In my free time I like to shop, read, work out, and spend time with my friends and family.

Introduction

2008-03-05T21:03:00.003-05:00

Hi, my name is Julia O'Neal. I graduated in 2005 from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a BS in elementary education. I taught in Georgia for a few years before moving home. I am now working on my master's degree in education and also my reading specialist certification. I am really excited to be able to discuss To Kill a Mockingbird with all of you. The last time I read the book was in tenth grade and it still remains one of my favorite pieces of literature!