To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 25: It’s a Sin and Reactions
This To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 25 lesson examines responses to Tom Robinson’s death and the ways the novel develops ideas about injustice, empathy, and moral responsibility. Students revisit key moments and support their interpretations with details from the chapter.
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Learning Goals
- I will be able to identify and analyze three instances of imagery in Chapter 25.
- I will be able to describe the town of Maycomb’s response to Tom Robinson’s death and discuss who they blame.
- I will be able to interpret Scout’s conclusion about Tom Robinson’s trial.
Materials
TKAM Digital Copy
TKAM Audio Chapter 25 (10:24)
Process
- Read To Kill a Mockingbird Chapter 25.
- Lead a group discussion on the significance of the metaphor “it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird” and how it applies to the events and characters in Chapter 25. Encourage students to share their thoughts on the imagery and its relation to Atticus’s advice.
- Text Analysis: In small groups, students will find and analyze three examples of imagery that echo Atticus’s advice in Chapter 25. On a large piece of chart paper, or a slide, they should prepare to speak to the class about how these examples contribute to the understanding of the novel’s message.
- In 1-2 paragraphs, write a reflection on how the town reacts to Tom Robinson’s death. Comment on who they blame. What do you think about their reaction?
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Curriculum Connections
Ontario Grade 9 English (ENL1W): This lesson supports Strand C and Strand D through imagery, theme, character response, and reflective writing.
Common Core: RL.9-10.1, RL.9-10.2, RL.9-10.4, and W.9-10.9.
Differentiation and Extensions
Differentiation: Review imagery with one modeled example, provide a short list of passages for students who need support, and use a response frame linking image, meaning, and theme.
Extension: Ask students to connect the Chapter 25 imagery to the mockingbird symbol and explain how the novel’s central idea has changed or deepened.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should students focus on in Chapter 25?
Students analyze imagery, the community’s response to Tom Robinson’s death, and Scout’s growing understanding of the novel’s moral ideas.
Why return to the mockingbird idea here?
Chapter 25 gives students a strong opportunity to connect imagery and events back to the recurring idea of innocence harmed by prejudice or cruelty.
How can I scaffold the imagery analysis?
Use a three-part organizer: what the text describes, what the image suggests, and how it connects to a larger theme.