Lord of the Flies Chapter 9: Simon’s Untimely Demise

ByDylan Callens

Teach Lord of the Flies Chapter 9 with an analytical obituary-writing activity centered on Simon’s death. Students examine the events of the chapter, trace Simon’s role in the novel, and use specific details to explore fear, group behavior, and loss of innocence.

← All Lord of the Flies unit lessons

Learning Goals

  • I will be able to analyze the significance of Simon’s character and his role in “Lord of the Flies.
  • I will be able to understand the events that lead to Simon’s death in Chapter 9 and discuss why they happen.
  • I will be able to evaluate the impact of mob mentality and dehumanization as depicted in the novel.

Materials


LotF Digital Copy


LotF Audio Chapter 9 (20:35)


Obituary Writing Activity Handout

Process

  1. Read Lord of the Flies Chapter 9.
  2. Answer the chapter questions.
  3. Complete the Obituary Writing Activity.

Chapter 9 Questions

  1. What does Simon discover about the “beast” on the mountain?
  2. Analyze how Simon’s death symbolizes the loss of innocence and the complete descent into savagery.
  3. Give examples of how setting/atmosphere are important to this chapter.
  4. Reflect on the portrayal of mob mentality and its effects on individual morality and actions. How does this relate to real-world scenarios?

Obituary Writing Activity

In this assignment, you are tasked with writing an obituary for Simon. This task requires you to reflect on Simon’s character, his actions throughout the novel, and the events leading up to his tragic death. 

Before writing the obituary, jot down key points about Simon’s character traits, significant actions, and his role within the novel’s themes. Consider what makes Simon unique and how he contributes to the story’s moral and philosophical questions.

Writing the Obituary:

    • Introduction: Start with an announcement of Simon’s death, including any symbolic dates or locations relevant to the story’s context.
    • Summary of Life: Briefly summarize Simon’s life within the novel, focusing on his personality, his contributions to the group, and his philosophical or moral standings.
    • Events Leading to Death: Describe the events leading up to Simon’s tragic end, ensuring to capture the emotional and thematic weight of these moments. Reflect on how these events are representative of the novel’s broader themes.
    • Legacy: Conclude by reflecting on Simon’s legacy within the novel. Consider what his character teaches us about human nature, innocence, and the potential for savagery within us all.
    • Style and Tone: The obituary should be respectful and reflective, capturing the essence of Simon’s character and the significance of his story. While this is a fictional assignment, approach it with the same sensitivity and depth as a real obituary.

Your obituary should be a minimum of 250 words.

Marking Criteria (Total: 20 Marks):

  • Understanding of Character (5 Marks): Demonstrates a deep understanding of Simon’s character and his role in the novel.
  • Analysis of Events (5 Marks): Accurately and thoughtfully describes the events leading up to Simon’s death, linking them to the novel’s themes.
  • Expression and Sensitivity (5 Marks): The obituary is written with empathy, respect, and an appropriate tone, reflecting the serious nature of the assignment.
  • Grammar and Coherence (5 Marks): The obituary is well-organized, grammatically correct, and flows logically from introduction to conclusion.

Curriculum Connections

Ontario Grade 9 English (ENL1W)

  • C2.6: Summarize and synthesize important ideas and supporting details.
  • C3.2: Make inferences using explicit and implicit evidence.
  • C3.4: Analyze norms, values, and social hierarchy represented in texts.
  • C3.5: Analyze explicit and implicit perspectives communicated through a text.

Common Core State Standards (Grades 9–10)

  • RL.9-10.1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence.
  • RL.9-10.2: Analyze how themes develop through specific details.
  • RL.9-10.3: Analyze how character interactions advance plot and theme.

Differentiation and Extensions

Differentiation: Use a cause-and-effect organizer to separate what happens from why it matters. Give students a short list of themes to choose from before asking them to connect the chapter to one larger idea in the novel.

Extension: Ask students to argue whether this chapter is the novel’s central turning point and support the claim with evidence from both earlier and later chapters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Chapter 9 important to the unit?

It marks a major shift in the novel and gives students a strong opportunity to connect fear, group behaviour, symbolism, responsibility, and loss of innocence.

How can I keep discussion focused on analysis?

Move students from recounting events to explaining causes, consequences, symbolism, and thematic significance using evidence from the chapter.

Can students revisit the psychoanalytic lens here?

Yes. The chapter offers useful material for considering fear, impulse, group behaviour, and the tension between individual judgment and collective action.

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