This lesson plan, focusing on Chapters 13 and 14 of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, is crafted to engage students in a reflective and analytical exploration of themes surrounding family, social norms, and personal growth. The session begins with a journaling exercise where students are prompted to introspect and write about personal experiences of significant events or group dynamics, drawing parallels to the novel’s unfolding narrative. As the class reads and discusses these chapters, students will delve into the complexities of Scout’s interactions with Aunt Alexandra, examining the tension between traditional expectations and individual identity. The class will also analyze Jem’s maturing perspective and the challenges faced by the Finch family as they navigate the intricacies of societal norms in Maycomb. This lesson aims not only to deepen students’ comprehension of the novel’s characters and themes but also to enhance their ability to connect literature to personal experiences, foster critical thinking, and encourage articulate expression of their insights. By juxtaposing personal reflections with the Finch family’s story, students will gain a more profound understanding of the novel’s context and the dynamic interplay between societal expectations and personal values.
Learning Goals
- I will be able to reflect on and articulate personal experiences related to significant life events.
- I will be able to analyze and discuss the themes of family reputation, social standing, and personal identity as presented in chapters 13 and 14 of To Kill a Mockingbird.
- I will be able to identify and evaluate the role of societal expectations and personal values in shaping the characters’ actions and attitudes in the novel.
Materials
Process
1. In a journal entry, answer ONE the following:
A. Describe a significant event in your life (such as a conflict or transition) that you understand better now than you did when it happened. Why was the event significant? What is the difference between how you understood it then and how you do now? How do you account for the change?
B. Have you ever been a part of a group that treated someone disrespectfully or unfairly? Why do you think the group behaved the way it did? What role did emotion play? What role did reason play? How did you respond?
2. Review the note with the class.
3. Read chapters 13 and 14 with the class.
Chapter 13 Summary Notes
- Aunt Alexandra, Atticus’s sister, comes to stay with the Finch family in Maycomb.
- Aunt Alexandra is a traditional, proper woman who values family reputation and social standing.
- Scout, the narrator, finds it difficult to connect with Aunt Alexandra, as they have different interests and personalities.
- Aunt Alexandra is concerned about Scout’s tomboyish behavior and tries to mold her into a more ladylike girl.
- Scout feels uncomfortable and restricted by Aunt Alexandra’s presence and rules.
- Aunt Alexandra believes that the Finch family should maintain their social position and associate with their “own kind” of people.
- She insists on hosting a missionary circle meeting at their house to maintain the family’s reputation.
- Aunt Alexandra’s arrival also brings a change in Jem’s behavior. He becomes more mature and responsible, trying to meet Aunt Alexandra’s expectations.
- Scout overhears Aunt Alexandra expressing concern about the influence of Calpurnia, the family’s African American housekeeper, on the children.
- Scout becomes upset and defensive, considering Calpurnia as a beloved member of their family.
- The chapter ends with Scout overhearing Aunt Alexandra talking about the importance of family heritage and implying that Atticus should discuss the topic of their ancestry with the children.
- He makes a valiant attempt but succeeds only in making Scout cry.
Chapter 14 Summary Notes
- Jem and Scout face whispers and glances from townspeople due to Atticus defending Tom Robinson in the upcoming trial.
- Scout asks Atticus about the meaning of “rape,” leading to a discussion about the children’s visit to Calpurnia’s church.
- Aunt Alexandra forbids Scout from going to Calpurnia’s church again, causing disappointment for Scout.
- Aunt Alexandra tries to convince Atticus to let go of Calpurnia, claiming she is no longer needed. Atticus refuses.
- Scout and Jem get into a fight after Jem advises Scout not to antagonize Aunt Alexandra.
- Atticus intervenes and sends them to bed. Scout finds Dill hiding under her bed.
- Dill explains that he ran away from home because he felt neglected by his mother and stepfather.
- Dill traveled by train and foot to reach Maycomb Junction, and then sought refuge with Jem and Scout.
- Jem informs Atticus about Dill’s presence, and Atticus asks Scout to provide more food for Dill.
- Atticus goes next door to inform Dill’s aunt, Miss Rachel, about his whereabouts.
- Dill eats, then joins Scout in her bed to discuss his situation and feelings.
