To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 22: Reactions to the Case
In this lesson, we will immerse ourselves in To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 22. This chapter, rich in emotional depth and complexity, invites us to explore the aftermath of the trial and its profound impact on the characters and the community of Maycomb. As students navigate through the nuanced reactions and evolving dynamics post-verdict, they will gain a deeper understanding of the novel’s central themes, such as the nature of justice, racial prejudice, and moral courage. This lesson will not only encourage critical analysis of the narrative and its characters but also offer insights into the historical context that shapes the story. Through a thoughtful reflective activity, students will connect with the emotional resonance of the chapter, enhancing their appreciation of the novel’s enduring relevance in contemporary discussions on equality and human rights.
Learning Goals
- I will be able to identify and analyze the development of key characters in this chapter.
- I will be able to recognize and discuss how the themes of justice, morality, and social inequality evolve in this chapter.
- I will be able to identify key quotations from this chapter.
Materials
TKAM Digital Copy
TKAM Audio Chapter 22 (14:01)
Reactions Organizer
Process
- Go over the quotations organizer for chapter 22.
- Read Chapter 22 of To Kill a Mockingbird.
- Complete the organizer for this chapter.
To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 22: Responses to a Guilty Verdict
To complete the organizer below, find a quotation from each character in the chapter that best sums up their reaction to the court case.
Jem
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
Atticus
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
The Black community of Maycomb
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
Miss Maudie
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
Dill
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
Bob Ewell
- Quotation:
- What the quote tells us about the character:
- Page:
Curriculum Connections
Ontario Grade 9 English (ENL1W): This lesson supports Strand C and Strand D through character response, quotation selection, theme, and evidence-based interpretation.
Common Core: RL.9-10.1, RL.9-10.2, RL.9-10.3, and W.9-10.9.
Differentiation and Extensions
Differentiation: Let students choose from a smaller set of characters, model one quotation-response example, and provide a frame for moving from quotation to inference.
Extension: Ask students to compare two reactions to the verdict and explain what the contrast reveals about Maycomb’s values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main task in Chapter 22?
Students select quotations that capture how different characters or groups respond to the verdict and explain what those quotations reveal.
Why focus on reactions rather than plot summary?
The aftermath reveals character values, emotional consequences, and the broader social meaning of the verdict.
How can I scaffold the organizer?
Complete one character together and use the prompts “quotation,” “reaction,” and “what this reveals” for the remaining entries.