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A collaborative project between Canadian and American secondary schools
Lesson List
- Project Introduction
- Project Feedback
- Background Lesson #2 - Arts & Culture
- Background Lesson #1 - Biography
- Focus #1 - Meeting Maycomb
- Focus #2 - The Curious Case of Boo Radley
- Focus #3 - Narrative & Point of View
- Focus #4 - Characters
- Focus #5 - The Mob In Maycomb
- Focus #6 - Symbols
- Focus #7 - The Trial
- Focus #8 - And The Verdict Is...
- Focus #9 - Understandings
- Focus #10 - Heroes
- Group - Alexis B. and Kathryn W.
- Group - Britnee and Christopher M.
- Group - Brooklyn, Bryon K. & Kelsi E.
- Group - Carissa, Kendra J. & Michael F.
- Group - Caroline, Katie A. & Lemar E.
- Group - Christian and William F.
- Group - Cindy, Katelyn K. & Ryan J.
- Group - Colton, Kasondra G. & Russell M.
- Group - Daniel and Christopher L.
- Group - Jackson and Ryan G.
- Group - Janine, Mark S. & Haley S.
- Group - Jesse, Lauren Z. & Tyler W.
- Group - Joline, Austen B., Christina V & Caleb B..
- Group - Justin B. and Travis M.
- Group - Katrina, Garrett J. & Melissa D.
- Group - Kirk and Chad Z.
- Group - Kelsey ,Bridgette R., Lauren I.
- Group - Krista, Zach T. & Jazzmine S.
- Group - Ryan, Colton B. & Samantha B.
- Group - Sara, Nikkilyn H. & Jonathan S.
- Group - Shauna, Mark S. & Jessica P.
- Group - Shelean, Ana G. & Donald H.
- Group - Tamara, Angel C. & Allen A.
- Group - Tarrin, Aaron F, Lauren F.
- Group - Tasha and Jasmine Y.
- Group- Taylor, William B., Katie T.
- Group - Tyler and Brandon H.
- Group - Zoey, Julia S.
Resources
- Blog Rubric - Image
- Blog Rubric - Scribd
- Blogging Rules and Etiquette
- Cooperative Learning Rubric
- Cybersafety
- Group Participation Assessment
- Lessons From National Endowment of the Arts
- NEA: Jazz In The Schools
- Project Information
- Project Timeline
- Remembering Jim Crow
- The Role Of The Mentor
- To Kill a Mockingbird: A Historical Perspective
hey there, I am Krista, i'm sixteen years old and I am in grade eleven I go to a small town prarie school. Soccer and track is my thing. I spend a lot of time doing school activities and being with my friends.
ReplyDeleteHey there. I am Krista, I am sixteen years old and am in grade eleven. I enjoy soccer and track. I go to a small town prarie school and spend lots of my time doing school related tasks and being with friends and family.
ReplyDeleteHi I'm 16 years old and I love reading vampire books and learning about history and mythology
ReplyDeleteI live with 4 brothers and 3 sisters
ReplyDeleteI have 4 nieces and no nephews
I love hanging out with my friends but not so much time with my family.
ReplyDeleteMy oldest sister is a mother and the other oldest is married with 2 daughters
I'm Happy with my friends and the guys I know
ReplyDeleteI'm happy with my curretn boyfriend and He loves me
ReplyDeleteha oops posted the same thing twice. um well thats pretty awesome that you have a man that digs u. i do too ha:p. Vampires are scary. I am sorry but I can't stand Twilight ha. Mythology sounds pretty intrigue. I like math actually cauz its not complicated; either its right or wrong. Ela is a bit more challenging for me because there are so many dang answers for a question ha.-krista-
ReplyDeleteI love vampires and other myths
ReplyDeletedo you know anyone named zach?
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid my parents will reject him but I hope they like him.
ReplyDeleteHa well most parents are very protective when it comes to things like that ha. Especially the dad ha..i would kno.
ReplyDeleteTo me I picture Maycomb to be an old town with regular hot, duty weather. Maycomb is a slow town where people take their time with everything. Everyone seems to be poor and down in their luck. Maycomb seems like a group of people helping each other to get through the rough times.
ReplyDeleteThe social issues in Maycomb are poverty and the Radley family. Families like the Ewells were also a social problem, they did things like hunted off season and kept their children from school. I think that one of the social issues is poverty because Walter doesn't have a lunch for school and everyone else doesn't judge him. They simply understand that these are times of great poverty for many. The Radley family is very reserved, they completely keep to themselves. They don't even attend church and their father enables Boo.
My predictions about Boo Radley is that he will leave his house and possibly kill one of his family members. Then he will be on the loose in the quiet town of Maycomb.
I would describe Boo as a fun outgoing person but with a violent streak. He seems like throughout his life he wasn't disciplined but enabled and got away with a lot of bad things. Boo is the type where he doesn't take no for an answer and usually gets what he wants.
Being an outsider is not being involved with a certain situation but viewing and watching on what is happening around you. To be an outsider means that you are separated from the people around you and possibly considered unequal to everyone else. Some people are outsiders because They have gone through hardships in their lives and felt like pulling away from people. They maybe perhaps decided that they don't need anyone to be happy. Perhaps they think that no one would ever want to get to know them.
Ch.1-"He liked Maycomb, he was Maycomb county born and bred; he knew his people, they knew him, and because of Simon Finch's industry, Atticus was related by blood or marriage to nearly every family in the town"(pg.6). This sentence is one of the sentences that can represent Ch.1 because it shows what kind of town Maycomb exactly was. People were close to each other, knew everyones buisness and in a way was sort of like a huge family.
Ch.2-"Miss Caroline told me to tell my father not to teach me any more it would interfere with my reading"(pg.22). This sentence is significant because it introduces the difficulties that Scout is facing and hints to us that Scout and the teacher are most likely going to have conflict throughout the story. It also shows us what teachers were like back then.
Ch.3-"If you concede the necessity of going to school, we'll go on reading every night just as we always have"(pg.41). This sentence is significant because it explains the compromise between Atticus and Scout and helps Scout to feel better. It seems to temporarily fix the arising problem.
Jazzmine said...
ReplyDeletewhat is a composite school?what is your school like?
mine is not so bad once you get used to it
Jazzmine said...
ReplyDeleteI bet the book will get better that I'll keep reading it
October 26, 2009 10:08 AM
Jazzmine said...
Jem's sister's teacher feels Intimidated by her.
October 26, 2009 10:10 AM
Jazzmine said...
the cunninghams are thought to be outsiders because they are different
October 26, 2009 10:12 AM
Jazzmine said...
Boo radley Is thought to be dead or a ghost haunting the radley house
October 26, 2009 10:13 AM
Jazzmine Spinler said...
I feel bad for Jean(Jem's Sister) Because she's the one getting yelled at by the cook, her father and her teacher.
October 26, 2009 10:27 AM
My Parents are cool but my dad isn't
ReplyDeletecool cool.. so how exactly are the cunninghams different from most people in Maycomb? Ya i feel so sorry for Scout as well, but later in the novel Calpurnia(the cook)acts more friendly towards Scout. Yes I also agree that Scout's teacher is intimidated by her because she is really smart. Do you think Boo is dead or a ghost? Or do you think that he is still alive? I think Boo is still alive. I think the book will become more exciting eventually as well. A composite school is pretty much a large secondary school. What kind of school do you go to? Our school is small so you know pretty much everyone. We don't have the best resources but the teachers are pretty dece.
ReplyDeleteFocus #2
ReplyDeleteThe part where Scout almost got hurt in the tire was exciting but sort of worrisome. I thought that, that was definitley mean of Jem to do just because Scout didn't believe him about the "hot steams". I think it is kind of strange that Jem,Scout and Dill would role play the Radley family. I wonder why exactly Mr. Radley plugged the tree up with cement. Was it him who was leaving those gifts there? Did he want Jem and Scout to have them? Or was he just mad that they were stealing stuff from his personal hiding place? I think Jem and Scout will possibly try and unclogg the cement from the hole.
I found the part funy where Scout found two pieces of gum sticking to a tree and ate them. It's comical how she licks it and then thinks that since she didn't die that the gum should be safe. When my siblings and I were younger and when we went to restaurants my little brother would go under the tables and pick gum off that was stuck onto the table and chew it. I remember being very disgusted by it.
The children are consumed with Boo because Maycomb is a tired old town. There is not much else to do or think about. The legend of Boo Radley is the most mysterious and interesting thing about Maycomb. No, I can't really relate to this obession because I have never really pondered legends or stories and I have enough to do in the summers.
We learn that Boo Radley is most likely sill alive and that he doesn't come out possibly because he believes that anything that is pleasurable is a sin. We also learn that Boo Radley was a polite boy when he was young and that he spoke to Miss Maudie very nicely. Characteristics that I would use to describe Boo would be mentally unstable, unpredictable and dangerous.
I think Harper Lee believes that education is very vital and important in ones life. I think that education is very important as well. Without education we wouldn't be able to use our gifts and talents to our full potential and wouldn't know a lot of interesting things that are very useful and make our lives easier. Education seems to be different for the children of Maycomb because children are discouraged by the teachers to learn and be ahead of everyone else. Nowdays if a child was very bright the teacher would encourage the child and challenge them, not hold them back from their fullest potential.
Expand:
I think Atticus is courageous because he stands up for what is right no matter what race someone is. He strongly believes in equality even though the majority of the people believe don't. Calpurnia is brave because she is black and is not afraid to associate with white people. Jem is brave because he never turns down a dare even when it involves commiting acts at the crazy Radley residence. I think Dill is a coward because he dares Jem to do things instead of him doing them by himself. Dill also tells lies about lots of things about himself because maybe he is perhaps scared about what people think about himself.
I think dill loves Scout
ReplyDeleteYa me too ha. He proposed to her and kissed her on the cheek I think. They will probably end up marrying each other in the long run.
ReplyDeleteI think she'll be his wife in the end
ReplyDeleteKrista,
ReplyDeleteI like what you wrote about education. But I think Harper Lee has mixed feelings about education. What was Atticus's education? Scout's teacher was new to teaching. She thought she knew that best way to teach the kids. And because Scout is so straight-forward, sometimes she is a bit of a miss smartie pants. I think the teacher was confused about what to do with her. I wonder, too, how the teachers here would take it if you told them they were wrong in class, as she more or less did about the Cunningham's.
Hm ya later on in the book I could see Scout being really impatient with with Dill because he isn't proposing to her and then they would finally get married ha.
ReplyDeleteM.Shirley,
ReplyDeleteHow do you think Harper Lee feels exactly about education? Atticus has a very good education obviously I would think so because he is a lawyer and he is not racist against blacks. Usually educated poeple are not racist or as racist. I think now days if a child was behaving like Scout the teacher could feel intimidated and behave similar to Miss Caroline but most teachers would know not to react to Scout's behaviour by being intimidated. They would challenge the child to their fullest potential.
Focus #3-Extend
ReplyDeleteHarper Lee tells the story from an adults perspective, narrated by a child many years after the fact because kids can over exaggerate certain experiences and misinterpert events and not totally understand until they are older and look back on their childhood.
Scout's perspective on the novel helps you better understand the story because she knows exactly the experience and would be able to give you a better idea of how to really engage in the novel.
What makes a good work of historical fiction is if it is historically accurate and is an interesting event that most people could relate too.
In some ways having the story in first person perspective and having Scout be the narrator might misinterpert some of the events that happened. For example Scout tells how being at Mrs. Dubose's house is the most horrible thing in the world and that she is so mean, but Mrs. Dubose might not even be that mean or be seen as mean from another person's perspective. They could see Mrs. Dubose like Atticus sees her.
I feel that Harper Lee is putting her life in a different point of view but letting her readers know that life inside the books and outside can look easy but be hard and look hard but is easy
ReplyDeleteCould you give me an example of who's life may look hard but actually is easy and who's life looks easy but actually is hard? I would say Dill 's life may look quite easy and look like there is nothing wrong with his life but actually it is really hard for him.
ReplyDeleteHey,
ReplyDeleteKrista, even though I am not one of your blogging partners I would like to have a chance to talk with you. You seem very intrested and I love your conversations. I have already read this book back in 8th grade because it was required. I have to say this is one of my top favorites and I hope you are enjoying it..I won't say anything about it because I don't want to ruin it for you. Just make sure you capitalize correctly and don't repeat words. Jazzimine, I like your conversation too but it does need to be a little longer. Just make sure it's longer then 1-2 sentences so you get a good grade. I will give you guys 4's all around:)
Cool.Thanks for the advice.
ReplyDeleteHey which character do you want to examine? I want to examine Calpurnia because it seems that we are given a fair bit of info about her.
ReplyDeleteCalpurnia
ReplyDeleteStrict at times
-towards scout at the beginning of the novel
Caring
-towards scout when Jem is being moody
Not racist
-cares for a white family
-takes Jem and Scout to her church where all the people are black, she doesn't care what they think
Hardworker
-cook, cleans well
-spends time with Scout a lot
Physical Attributes
-black
-older than Atticus(Calpurnia is not sure how old she really is).
Calpurnia brings reactions to Scout way back in the story when they have Walter for supper. Calpurnia fiercly tells Scout that you don't judge people on how they eat their food and that he is their guest. Scout responds by saying that he is just a Cunningham. Calpurnia smacked Scout and as a result Scout was mad at Calpurnia for awhile.
Calpurnia helps Scout learn more about herself by spending time with her when Jem wants to be alone. She helps Scout learn things in the kitchen. Calpurnia also helped Scout to be more independent and to not to always rely on Jem.
Extend:
ReplyDeleteI think the Antagonist n the novel is aunt Alexandra. I think so because she is trying to change Scout and Jem when there is nothing wrong with the way they are being brought up. I think aunt Alexandra is racist, not completely sure but she definitley has the personality where it is her way or the highway. She is controlling and gets into others buisness. She is simply annoying me.lol. Aunt Alexandra is a trouble maker.
Jem is forcing Scout to look at herself in a different way by saying, "It's time you started bein' a girl and acting right!"(pg.153)
Aunt Alexandra is forcing Scout to look at herself differently by saying she should wear dresses and engage in activities that girls are supposed to be doing. She also picks on her in little ways and says, "Jean Louise, stop scratching your head." (pg.169) Atticus forces Scout and Jem to look at themselves differently by saying that got to start acting like Finches. He doesn't really mean it, he is just taking stupid advice from aunt Alexandra and not standing up for his family.
The characters make the novel a good historical fiction by having interesting and distinct personalities that will be memorable to persons reading the book.
Krista,
ReplyDeleteno problem...Have lots of fun:)
Bridgette,
ReplyDeleteI'll try :p. I 'll be honest, this book is alright and interesting at some points but at other times I have to force myself to read. But I think the book with become more engaging as we get a little further or towards the end.How do you feel about the novel?
Krista,
ReplyDeletePersonally, I absoultely adore this book because it reminds me of some good memories from my past but also bad memories that I absoutely hate. It will get much better trust me... I had to read this in 8th grade and loved it then. Near the end of this book you will be on the edge of your seat the whole time. Hope you come to like this book:) What parts do you not like, what parts do you like?
Bridgette...
ReplyDeleteAlright I'll take your word for it. I am excited to see what will happen next. I like the part where Atticus drives to the office late at night to meet a group of men and then Jem, Scout and Dill spy on him and save Atticus from getting hurt. Parts that I don't really like or just simply annoy me is any time aunt Alexandra opens her mouth XD. What is your favourite part so far in the novel?
Examples that show Jem's age would be him withdrawing from playing with Scout, reading in his spare time like Atticus (football magazines), Jem telling Scout to act like a girl, staying with Atticus when he was in trouble, and Jem being more interested in adult company than children's play. I myself sometimes read in my spare time before I go to bed. I really like company from any age group of people. I have withdrawn a bit from younger siblings since being a teen. Have you done the same? I am definitley not like Jem in the way of not engaging in children's activities because I still do at times. An example would be trick or treating, I plan to keep doing so for a while:p. Do you still take part in activities that are meant for kids?
ReplyDeleteThe mob of the scene tells us that even rough, angry men can be reasoned with and still can have a heart sometimes.
Journal Entry:
Dear diary,
I knew something was up last night. I'm so glad that I listened to my instincts. Following Atticus to the office was something I'll never regret. He could have gotten hurt real bad by that mob of men. I was so surprised that they left because of crazy Scout's blabbing mouth. It's actually a life saver that I let her come. When Atticus was telling me to leave and go home, I could just tell by his tone of voice and the look in his eye that if I left I'd never see him again. Even if I wanted to move and go home I don't think I could have. It was like my legs simply wouldn't move. I was frozen in my body for a while. I felt scared as hek and I was so annoyed with Scout for a bit until I realized that what she was doing was actually saving us. I feel in a way that I am the one who will have to protect the family. The case for Tom Robinson has taken a huge toll on him, I worry about him so much. My shoulders feel heavy but we will make it through this not bad-well thats what my instincts tell me.
-Jem-
Focus #6
ReplyDeleteThe mockingbird symbolizes happy innocent people that are some what oblivious to what exactly is happening in their world. The title "To Kill a Mockingbird" means to destroy this innocent care free behaviour in persons such as Dill, Scout, Jem and Tim Robinson. There is a slight theme of birds in the book, like Jem and Scout's last name being Finch. A finch is a small helpless bird, helpless and small just like Jem and Scout.
What the character's names symbolize-
Scout: tomboy, risk taker, adventurer, explorer
Jem: protector, planner, advice giver
Dill: independance, different, faithful
Atticus: wisdom, kindness, fairness, bravery
Boo: scary, mysterious, suspicious
To be an individual in society is to be your own person and to achieve your personal dreams and careers. It is to NOT work as a group or make decisions but to make your own and be self sufficient. Individualism seems to be taught in our society. What beliefs do you think are taught in Maycomb?
Atticus's character could align with the stereotypical view of masculinity because he is no coward and isn't afraid to be a lawyer for a black man. He is courageous because he was going to face that mob of men all alone. Atticus is a really good shot with guns. Atticus may look old and perhaps not very strong but inside he definitley is a man.
Krista,
ReplyDeleteUmmmm, that one is kind of hard...My favorite part would have to be when Scout and Dill hang out and have the best of time and then they say when they are older their going to get married. I think that's cute. Also when Atticus and Uncle Jack have a convo. with Scout and telling her she needs to grow up and Scout says she like being a tomboy... I agree with you with Aunt Alexandra. She annoys me 2. But my most favorite part hasn't happened yet. It's coming up very soon though so I'm excited:) The part that's coming up is when Boo finally comes out of his house for a special reason...I'm not saying anymore about it, cause I don't want to ruin it for you.Yeah, trust me it gets better and good for you:)
Bridgette,
ReplyDeleteYes, it is cute that Dill seems to be faithful to Scout at such a young age. Come to think of it I also like the part where Scout confronts her Uncle on how he didn't listen to her side of the story when her and Francis had a fight. I like it how Scout has that wise tendency to stand up for herself. oh cool so the Boo man does come out of the house, awesome. Talking to you helps me to like this book better and get into it more. Thanks girl. I am pretty much blogging myself since my actual partners don't respond anymore. Thanks for being my blogging buddy every now and then. Ha.
Krista,
ReplyDeleteJazzimine; which is a friend of mine hasn't blogged since November 6th. That is crazyness:) It also does not seem like her but I guess I should have seen it coming. To answer your question, yes he does come out. Yes for sure about the part with Scout confronting her Uncle Jack and that spiel. I'm glad I could help you out. COOL!!!! Your very Welcome...anytime! If you want I could blog about chapters to you too? I'm with Kelsey for blogging and we have long blogs at times:) Its actually funny in away but I love it:)!!!No problem I love doing this blogging and talking to people I don't know except through the blogs. Can I ask you a question about you as a person?
the book is cool
ReplyDeleteyeah what do you want to know
ReplyDeleteYes, that would be awesome if you could blog chapters to me as well. Ha ya for sure you can ask any question you want, ha well maybe not any question lol.
ReplyDeleteHa why do you think the book is cool? I think the book is getting better now. I'm at the part where it is the trial and Atticus is asking Mayella questions. Do you think her dad actually assaulted her or what do you think actually happened? I think that her dad assaulted her when he was drunk because he is an alcoholic and scared her into lying and telling everyone that a black man did it, which seems very believable. But it's sort of funny to believe because Tom Robinson is a crippled black and Mayella is actually quite strong. I believe it said in the novel somewhere. I dont't really have any questions at the moment, but if I think of any I'll write them down and blog them.Ha. Do you have any particular questions about the novel or any topic that would be interesting to discuss?
ReplyDeleteOkay, I can do that....I'm sorry its taking so long I just had to go see the doctor for the past 2 days so I haven't been in my English class. I will respond within the next 2 days for sure.... What I wanted to ask was what kind of a person are you? Like what kinds of things do you like or what do you like to do? Hope you get my drift sorry if its confusing:)LOL!!! Thanks... Also what is your favorite book?
ReplyDeleteKrista,
ReplyDeleteJem is an odd character but he is one of my favorites. Jem's coming to age:
1) Starting to mature
2) Realize what life is really like for adults
3) Grumpy
4) More responsibility (still getting yelled at)
5) Standing up for Scout and Dill
6) Hard to understand
7) Making new friends
8) Difficult on so many different levels
9) Starting to get own opinion on things
and so many more things.
My coming of age:
I have to say my coming of age started when I was between 7 and 11. I have to say though there was things I did and didn't like about my family and still don't. Anyways, I was grumpy all the time and didn't care about anything or anyone around me except for my closer friends. I would be very moody, had my own opinion on things and would always put in my two sense worth. See in my family, my dad wears the pants and you either listen and do as your told or you get spanked or grounded. Of course I don't get spanked anymore because I'm to old but I have five little sisters to look out for. Yes, sometimes they are annoying and I want out but I love them dearly and I look out for them. You could call me there mother because my mom has to work and go to school. I say 7 because that's when I started to learn how to cook, change dippers, and feed my sisters. I have to say I didn't like my coming of age...If there was one thing I could change it would defiantly be that and other things.
Dear Journal;
Tonight as I laid in bed thinking I realized I need to go see where my father was. I got up and of course Scout bothered me about going and then Dill wanted to come. We snuck out the back and down the street till we came to his office and saw him by the courthouse. He was reading his paper and watching out to make sure no one hurt Tom. Then I saw this dark car pull up and everyone got out. One of the guy's out of all that I knew, was Mr. Cunningham. In the mean time Scout and Dill ran to Atticus. I stayed tucked away but then ran towards to stop Scout and Dill. He wanted to get in and kill Tom. I couldn't believe how Scout stood up for Atticus. After Atticus talked to him he left. It was amazing and then finally I took them home. Scout, Atticus, and I had a conversation about what just happened. This will be one night I won't forget. On top of it all No one got hurt and I was still scared after it ended…I really hope everything goes okay:) What do you think about all this?
The book is like an autobiography but put in a different point of view
ReplyDeleteExtend for Ch. 16-19
ReplyDeleteHey,
How are you liking this book? Now that during this big trial everyone is talking about and everyone but a few think Tom is guilty when he didn't doo anything...What do you think about this? Meaning do you like the fact that he's getting blamed for it just because he's an African American or not? In my opinion and mine only I think its not right that even though they have a different color skin they should have been equal just like the whites. That really ticks me off the way history and people acted and really there's nothing wrong with them.
Hey my name is Joline and I go to Delisle Composite School. I'm friends with Krista (or so I tell her). Just kidding Krista! So I'm technically not part of your blogging group, but my group apparently doesn't have much to say. So, I decided that I should just blog to you guys. What do you think about the trial? It's really sad to see that Tom has basically no chance in winning the trial based on the fact that he is black. Why do you think the whites were more "superior" than the blacks in this time period? I think that mostly whites lived in the U.S. in the beginning. When a few black people came to live there they were probably treated like outsiders because they were different. The whites felt that they were superior to the blacks because that was the opinion of the "majority" of the people (there is mostly white people residing in the country). Even though more blacks came to live there, it didn't matter because the stereotypical opinion was already established. Do you think that is accurate to say? I'm just trying to figure out who/when it was decided that the whites were somehow better than blacks because of their skin color. What do think?
ReplyDeleteJoline--*
Hi Joline,
ReplyDeleteKrista you can comment to...
My name is Bridgette Richards. I'm not part of this blogging either but because Krista's group wasn't blogging and after I made a couple of comments she suggested I work with her. I'm with Kelsey's group really but I have to much fun. I'm having fun at this and its not hard for me to blog two people at once and I'm not going to stop so you'll also have me to make comments. I've already read this book back in 8th grade.Here's alittle about myself:
- I have 5 younger sister and a twin brother who's 5 minutes older then me
- I go to Central High School and am 15 1/2
- I love pets, my friends,being at school and playing the violen and Guitar
- My pets are: an 3 1/2 feet iguana, 5 cats, & 11 birds:)
- I also am obessed with the Twilight Series
- After college I want to be an OB doctor and a family doctor
How are you liking this book? You are correct about your opinion on blacks and whites. The trial is so unfair but I guess that's the way people decided how to do things. Dumb uh? In my opinion it is dumb and I think Bob Ewell needs to be put in jail for life; don't you think? My favorite part of this book has not happened yet but very soon it will. I was talking to Krista and I was able to get her to like the book more then what she already had. We were talking about Tom, Boo, the Ewells, Scout and Jem. Amazing what kind of a person Scout is isn't it? This book is amazing and I'll let you know when we've past my favorite part which has to do with Boo Radely:)
I do think her dad assaulted her and forced her to blame a man for a crime he didn't commit and she's trying to set things right and she sounds sorry for what she did. I think she's afraid of her father because he has abused her for years I think
ReplyDeleteI definetly agree with you that Bob Ewell needs to be put jail. It's really stupid how the people just ignore the fact that he beats his child and focus on calling Tom guilty instead. Most of the people made up their minds before the trial even started. No amount of evidence could change what they already believe.
ReplyDeleteYour right about Scout too. She is pretty amazing. It is crazy how she is so young, but still seems to understand the world as if she was an adult. I really like her narrating the novel.
I really like this book so far except for some parts that don't have a lot of action. Other than that, it's pretty good!
Joline--*
Focus #8
ReplyDeleteI think that the major turning point in the novel is the trial of Tom Robinson. This is when most characters in the novel have to make a choice. They have to choose if they want to go along with the majority of the people or to “go against the grain.” The people of Maycomb have to decide if they want to call Tom guilty because he is black or give him a fair chance. The trial is a life changing event in Maycomb. What do you guys think the main turning point is in the novel?
Another turning point is when the novel switches to Part 2. The second part of the book is all about the racial issues with Tom Robinson, while the first part is about the children’s obsession with Boo Radley.
What are your thoughts on how Atticus represented Tom? I think that he was probably the best person to stand up for Tom and give him a chance at winning the trial.
Joline
Hey,
ReplyDeleteI defiantly have to agree...without to much detail or conversation I understand more then anyone could imagine and I don't want that to happen again. I feel Mayella deeply and it is a shame about how Tom has to go through misery when it’s obvious that he didn't do that to Mayella and yes it’s just because he's an African American. Joline, I'm glad your liking it pretty well...
Bridgette,
ReplyDeleteI like being with people and going on spontaneous hang out dates. ha. O and long sandy walks on the beachs.jk jk ha. Well it could be nice ha. I am usually pretty jolly and I could always use a good laugh so feel free to add in some good humour every now and then when blogging. ha. I have a twin brother and sister and an older brother who just graduated. I also have a chublet beagle ha. School and activities consume all my time pretty much and yes Jo-bo(Joline) is my spud.:p. I love sports such as soccer, basketball, track, pretty much anything except hockey. I really loved the book called "Kira-Kira". I believe that was the name. I can't remember who the author was. I don't really like Twilight though ha. I didn't even see the movie at all and I mean the first one. ha. Anyways backs to the book, it's annoying how Tom was guilty even though it was highly obvious that he was innocent. Mr. Ewell looked deadly suspectable and nobody took a stand, because of that Mayella is still living in terror and an innocent man is now dead.
Jazzmine,
Yes I think Mayella's dad is a complete psyco and has the potential of seriously harming or killing Mayella. He is really good at manipulating her and controlling her too.
I would say one major turning poin is when Dill comes back in the summers. It is a turning point because Dill is one of the main characters and if he did not come back in the summers there would not have been any encounters with Boo because he always seemed to arrange the plans and dared Jem. Another turning point is Scout stepping in on the mob of men because if she wouldn't have done that Atticus would have gotten hurt or something seriously would have gone wrong. The mob of men still would have been mad at Atticus and would have plotted further against him if they didn't kill him at that mob. Aunt Alexandra moving in with Jem, Scout and Atticus is a major turning point because if she did not move in Jem and Scout would be able to hang out with Walter and get away with more. Scout would be even more unlady-like than she is now. Jem ripping up Mrs. Dubose's flowers was another major turning point because if he had not done that then he wouldn't of had to read to her and Atticus would have never explained to them how Mrs. Dubose was courageous when dying and they would have not known what courage is. Another turning point is Jem growing up and becoming mature. It changes things because now he quits taking part in childish acts such as spying on Boo. If he hadn't grown up he might not have had the courage to stay at the mob with Atticus. All in all the absolute TSN is the scene of the mob of men and Scout stopping them from hurting Atticus or Tom. The story would have had a totally different path if Atticus would have died. Do you think Justice will truly be served in the end of the novel?
ReplyDeleteJo-bo,
I think Atticus represented Tom very good as well. If a different Lawyer was in place for Tom they probably would have gotten beat because they wouldn't have been able to bring about the points very well and would have made things worse.
Wow Krista! That was a lot of examples of turning points. In case the rest of you were wondering, when Krista said I was her "spud" she meant that I'm her friend. She's kind of unique in her wording. You will get used to it! Anyway, back to the book.
ReplyDeleteI think the main turning point is when word gets around that Atticus is representing Tom in the trial. This causes the town's people to pick a side. I think the main point in the novel is too show how black people were mistreated. Yet, this book is so much more than that. It combines so many issues, along with the problems of growing up. By doing so, the book appeals to many different readers. What do you think is the main issue in the story? (pick one)
Joline-
Final focus #8
ReplyDeleteDuring the trial Atticus is questioning Mayella, Tom Robinson, Bob Ewell, and the sheriff of Maycomb. What they don't understand, in my opinion is that Mayella is still at a fragile age and that's why she get's scared of Atticus. Tom is obviously a very nice guy and wouldn't dare to hurt Mayella because he doesn't roll like that. He just got blamed because he is an African American and was in that place at the wrong moment. Bob Ewell is this guy who is always chewing and drunk. He hates blacks and that is very mean because they did nothing to deserve this stupid nonsense. The sheriff should not have reported it because he had no proof that the inncodent really accord. Okay, so in this part of the story when Atticus states this, he seems to know what he's talking about and is understanding. I think Atticus loves everyone in Maycomb no matter what. It is wierd the way he acts especially towards blacks. It's rude how Bob Ewell spits on Atticus for defending Tom and gets away with it but OH no the minute a black touches a white person it's the end of the world. It drives me crazy to think that people can get away with things like Bob Ewell does. I hate the fact that the trail wasn't kept a secret and that Mr. Ewell can't keep his hands off his daughter. What do you guys think?
Extended:
The turning point so far is after Mrs. Dubose died and ever since there was talk about the trial. Everyone has pretty much changed. Bob Ewell has not at all though. This part of the book where Atticus gets all defense and starts loosing everything up is aan upseting part because it is so obvious that Tom isn't the bad guy but Bob Ewell is. Jem and Dill and Scout have become more invovled with the society and is getting involved with the trial and Atticus doesn't like it one bit. People in Maycomb need to learn to stop getting defensive over nothing when there wasn't proof. If there was proof fine but there wasn't. Turning point for this part is difiantly difficult because there is so much going on.
Krista,
No problem... I will do what I've been doing and having fun. How can you not like Twilght? My BF just got me a New moon bag and poster. He is amazing:)I love that book. I wish I could do sports, I miss it big time... If my knee wasn't dumb and needing surgery I would be able to... I miss having a dog:( Are last dog was German/Belgium shepard...
Bridgette,
ReplyDeleteYour right that Atticus seems to be respectful to everyone in Maycomb. He does seem to act especially kind to the blacks, but I think it's because no one else sticks up for them. Atticus sees that most people in Maycomb treat the blacks horribly, so he tries to make up for that by being especially nice. Maybe if everyone was treated equally, Atticus wouldn't favor the blacks. It's pretty amazing how he stands up for them no matter what others say about him. Your also right that Mayella is scared of Atticus, but I really think she is more afraid of her father. If she were to tell the truth, theres no telling what her father would do to her. It's really sad that an innocent man had to be pronounced guilty. It is especially sad because Mayella will probably continue to be beaten by her father. Are we at your favourite part of the book yet? Oh, wait! Didn't you say it had something to do with Boo Radley? I'm not there yet.Our class is going to see the play of this book at a theatre in Saskatoon. Have you ever seen this book as a play?
Joline--*
Hey, it's Matt from Ms. J's honors class. I think that the main issues adressed in the book are growing up and prejudice. Throughout the book, Jem and Scout faced issues that have to do with growing up, such as Jem learning the way people think, and that life isn't always fair but there's nothing you can do about it. Scout goes through phases in her life, like when she thinks it's cool to swear, and thats evidence of her growing up. There is a lot of prejudice in the book, toward many different people. Jem, Scout, and Dill are prejudice toward Boo Radley by treating him like a monster just because he kept to himself and didn't socialize with anyone. One obvious case of prejudice is the racism toward Tom and the whole black community by the Ewells and others who live in the area.
ReplyDeleteHey, it's Matt from Ms. J's honors class. I think that the main issues adressed in the book are growing up and prejudice. Throughout the book, Jem and Scout faced issues that have to do with growing up, such as Jem learning the way people think, and that life isn't always fair but there's nothing you can do about it. Scout goes through phases in her life, like when she thinks it's cool to swear, and thats evidence of her growing up. There is a lot of prejudice in the book, toward many different people. Jem, Scout, and Dill are prejudice toward Boo Radley by treating him like a monster just because he kept to himself and didn't socialize with anyone. One obvious case of prejudice is the racism toward Tom and the whole black community by the Ewells and others who live in the area.
ReplyDeleteHowdy, like Matt I am also from Ms. J's Honours Class. (I'm in the same class as Matt)To extend on Focus 8, I like that you are pointing out all of the problematic details of the trial synopsis. When reading about the events of the case, you have to realize that these are the 30's. Blacks were not treated with high regard. It was common for the treatment of blacks at this time. As for Atticus, he was not suprised at all with the results of the case. He even told Scout when he first took the case that he wasnt going to win. Atticus is a very respectable man both to people he loves and people he hates. As for the "spitting" scene, Bob didn't really spit on Atticus, he spit on the ground next to Atticus symbolizing Bob's filthiness and his vow to get back at Atticus for humilation.
ReplyDeleteFocus 8 Extend: The Turning Point of this novel and the climax in my opinion is the verdict of the trial. Both Jem and Scout are changed by the events of the trial. Mrs. Dubose's death was pretty important but not enough to be the turning point.
Matt:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that the two main focusses are growing up and prejudice. I think they work hand in hand becuase the racist issues in the novel cause Scout to mature. She starts to see the world from other people's point of view (Atticus, Tom, Mr. Cunningham, etc.). By doing so, she is able to better understand different issues.
Dustin:
Your definetely right when you say that blacks were not treated well in the 30's. I think that's why Atticus really stands out to many people in the town. His views are often different from most people. Atticus considers every single person's opinion, not just the whites. He really wasn't surprised with the jury's verdict because I think he knew all along that he couldn't win. Atticus is victorious in the fact that no other man could keep the jury out as long as he did. He at least made the jury consider Tom's side.
Hey,
ReplyDeleteJust so you guys know my favorite part happens in chapter 31. I look at the questions to find out. How are you guys liking this book so far.
Focus 9
ReplyDelete"Atticus had used every tool available to free men to save Tom Robinson, but in the secret courts of men's hearts Atticus had no case. Tom was a dead man the minute Mayella Ewell opened her mouth and screamed" (323).
It is sad to think that Atticus really doesn’t have a chance in this case. As soon as Mayella Ewell testifies against Tom, he is in the wrong. A white person’s statement is always taken over the black person’s. Only Atticus could have even made the jury consider his side in this case. For that, he is successful.
Harper Lee's theme of social injustice is still relevant today. Some people feel as though they are superior to others based on their skin color, gender, culture, personality, occupation, etc. Obviously we have developed some rights and laws that prohibit racism and inequality among people, but that is not to say that these issues have been completely eliminated in society. The older generations pass on their views to the younger ones and these problems continue. If a man who has children is hateful of a certain race, it is likely that those children will learn to hate that race. This is what makes it difficult to change old habits. We need to continue to speak out against racism and inequality in order to completely eliminate them from our world.
I think people believe they are more superior to certain races because they have seen the way one person of that group acts and make the assumption that all people of that race will act the same. This is stereotyping people. We can’t break people into groups and judge them. Not every person in a stereotypical is the exact same. In order to break these stereotypes, we need to pass on the message to as many people as we can that it is wrong to judge people based on what we see. Everyone disserves a chance.
Final Focus #9
ReplyDeleteThe quote of Atticus means that He tried his hardest to get Tom free from jail time and what not because he knew that he didn't do it. Tom knew he didn't do it and told the court what he was doing and what Mayella did. But once again, since Mayella is white and Tom is black, he loses and she wins. IT SUCKS IF YOU ASK ME.... he does not deserve that and know look, he's dead. What do you guys think about Tom being dead now? How do you think Tom's wife and kids are taking it? Scout is saying that Jem has two different minds and she can't understand it. She wants to understand her brother but he's difficult. Jem knows what kinds of things Hitler did and is doing so he has a right to be mad but Scout doesn't and nobody wants to explain it to her. Jem is mean at home because that's just how older brothers are right?
Extended:
Her social injustice is still relevant today because blacks are still getting blamed for things they didn't do or they are getting more of a consequence then whites are. I'm not saying any names but a friend of mine got suspended for 2 days for scooping a girl and then my other friend got 3 days for the same reason but he's black, so that's how. I'm sick of racist jokes and behavior.
Brigette,
ReplyDeleteAww gee really,oh well that sucks about your knee. I killed myself lots too especially in sports ha. I am more of a small perosn so people try and crush me but I'm evil so I bite back ha. Ha I don't know about Twilight...might consider it ha.
Jo-bo,
Yes I definitley agree that Mayella was terrified of her father and that is definitley why she didn't tell the truth and that she was crying pretty much because of that.
Matt B.,
Yes you are very right that prejudice is a big part of the book. I also think that this book is about putting yourself in someone elses shoes and having empathy.
Dustin,
Ha what does "synopsis" mean? Ha gee just going all Oxford on us. ha jk. Anyways, yes I do recall that this in the 1930's and racism is what should be expected but I still feel annoyed about that ha. I definitley agree that the spitting scene symbolizes Bob's filthiness and his vow to get back at Atticus but I do believe that Atticus actually did get spat on in the face, I think it says so on the bottom of page 292.
Focus #9
ReplyDeleteI think social injustice is still relevant today because it takes time for things to change. Social injustice is still among us because certain steps and efforts still haven't been made. People like to stay stuck in their old ways and find it sometimes alarming when change occurs which is part of our human nature. It takes great leadership and passion to change social beliefs among many. I don't think social injustice is too much of a problem in my community. At times persons like to joke and make fun of people such as gingers. They have nothing against gingers deep down but they still like to entertain themselves by making fun of them which can be taken too far at times.
haha.The term synopsis means to give a brief statement about a much large event.
ReplyDeleteThe quote "Atticus had used every tool available to free men to save Tom Robinson, but in the secret courts of men's hearts Atticus had no case. Tom was a dead man the minute Mayella Ewell opened her mouth and screamed" pretty much means that in a “white” world at that time, African Americans had no chance of getting any jury to side with them. The fact of the matter is that though the Ewells are low in society, they’re white and if a white person has any complaint about an African-American during that time period, then the justice system would side with the whites. Atticus did use every figurative tool to try to free Tom. After the trial, Atticus tries to appeal toms claim to a higher court. When the quote about Hitler comes up it reminds us that Hitler and the prosecution of Tom is the same thing, although the Hitler problem was a much larger cost of lives. Harper Lee’s message is still germane (relevant) today because we still see people having problems with minorities. A lot of the older generation of America has negative feelings toward the minorities of America. Harper Lee is giving us an exhortation to stand up for what is morally right. Hypocrisy is something that we all struggle with. As an avid “politically involved” student, I have seen people speaking hypocritically. People do this to fit in with people and look smart.
Bridgette did you really experience what mayella did
ReplyDeleteKrista I can surely see what you are saying. Many people today aren't racist or prejudice but still poke fun of a person just because of their race or just from their differences. I mean I'm even guilty of this one, I will say a race joke, not because I’m racist but because it is funny and it also makes others laugh. I feel like we do this because we see it as an ok thing since everyone else does it, and we want to be accepted as well so we make these jokes to make others laugh.
ReplyDeleteA big thing though that I notice in the United States is the prejudice feelings towards Iroquoians. Since 9/11 hit I feel like it put blinders over people’s eyes that all people from that nationality are to blame, but that is not the case. Like Atticus said we must put ourselves in their shoes, they are American to and most likely were hurt even more by 9/11 because 1) They had to watch their own nationality do this to not only our country but theirs as well 2)They have to live with people looking at them in a bad way for what they didn't even do and 3)Now they have to watch Iraq in war with America(they might have family there).
So yes racism is still around today maybe it isn't exactly the same as the 1930's but everyone witnesses it to some kind of person, maybe just as a joke or a different attitude towards that person but it hasn't disappeared.
Focus 9
ReplyDeleteHey, I'm Rachel V from Johnson's honors class. I believe that the theme of social injustice is still relevant today because, although it may not be as extreme, prejudice ideas or feelings, and unfair outcomes due to race or gender still occur. Some people are racist toward anyone from the Middle East because of the 9/11 attack. Some people may automatically assume that anyone from the Middle East would support the terrorist actions and therefore have racist thoughts.
In the book, the teacher is being a hypocrite by criticizing Hitler's outstanding prejudices while she is doing practically the same thing. Although she isn't mass murdering a whole race, she is still racist toward totally innocent people who have done nothing to harm her or her community. In my school, there are always racist or prejudice comments thrown at people as jokes. Most students my age don't really have enough of their own opinion yet to be racist so they use it for humor instead.
Just like how in the US a lot of people are stereotypical and prejudice against Iraq/ Middle East, many Canadian citizens possess hatred towards the Natives. Why do you think we stereotype people and assume that an entire race, country, gender, etc. all acts the same? Your right by saying that there always will be racism in this world. We still see racism and stereotypes today, but they are disguised in a way that makes them seem alright in modern society. I don't think that any type of racism is alright, but we all do it. Why? This shouldn't be the case. No person should feel as though they are superior to any other person. We were born equal.
ReplyDeleteWhat changes the innocence we posses as children when we grow up in this society?
Focus 10
ReplyDeleteI agree with the majority of people. Atticus is definetly the main hero in the story. He is the only person who could make so many people even consider the innocence of Tom Robinson. While many other people chose to believe the Ewells based on their race, Atticus defended a black man. Throughout the whole novel while various people judge Atticus based on his respect for the blacks, he stands by what he believes in. He treats every person with respect, regardless of race, gender, or wealth. In this time period, it is amazing to see someone who is as commited to his opinions as Atticus is. He teaches his children the same morals, even though they are condemned for their beliefs. Atticus is responisble for many people considering a black person’s opinion. Without people like Atticus, our world would still be as racist as people were in the 1930s.
Focus 10
ReplyDeleteI agree with the majority of people. Atticus is definitely the main hero in the story. He is the only person who could make so many people even consider the innocence of Tom Robinson. While many other people chose to believe the Ewell’s based on their race, Atticus defended a black man. Throughout the whole novel while various people judge Atticus based on his respect for the blacks, he stands by what he believes in. He treats every person with respect, regardless of race, gender, or wealth. In this time period, it is amazing to see someone who is as committed to his opinions as Atticus is. He teaches his children the same morals, even though they are condemned for their beliefs. Atticus is responsible for many people considering a black person’s opinion. Without people like Atticus, our world would still be as racist as people were in the 1930s.
Dustin,
ReplyDeleteHa thanks for that. I'll make sure to add that word to my vocabulary. I think people are hyprocrites because they are either afraid to be who they are as a person or they simply are selfish, therefore they want other people to act a certain way because it benefits them but not act on their own rules because it is uncomfortable.
Cassidy,
I'll totally admit it as well, I can be very racist at times, especially towards gingers. Not because I am actually racist, but because I just want to make people laugh and what not, but I suppose it isn't worth it in the end and isn't all that funny. I got to work on that ha.
A big thing in Cananda is that we are prejudice towards natives. Many people perceive them as uneducated, lazy and drunks, which in my opinion really sucks because they are people just like you and me.
Focus#10
ReplyDeleteI think Boo Radley is the most heroic character. I think this because he saves Jem and Scout not because he had to or because he wanted to be a hero but because he wanted to out of the kindess of his heart. He did a great service for the goodness of Maycomb even when Maycomb looked down on him and disowned him. He could have sat in his house feeling sorry or being angry but instead he risked his life and rescued Jem and Scout which is seen as very heroic in my point of view.
Krista,
ReplyDeleteYeah, I'm sorry 2:( It sucks.
Anonymous,
yes long time ago.:(
Final Focus #10:
ReplyDeleteIn my opion I think it is Scout. I think Scout is the most heroic because all through the book her attitude and everything else is changing. She stands up for what she believes in. She mostly does what is right. He is also heroic so I do agree with you. Boo is a very surprising character because you don't see what he is really like until the end of the book. He personally is one of my top favorite characters. It would go Scout, Boo, Atticus and then Jem. Mr. Ewell should have been killed a long time ago; like after the whole Tom inncodent. Which isn't right that he got punished for. It's hard to believe how many different aspects there are to this book. It starts out as one mood and then changes to another. What do you guys think?
Krista, How did you like chapter 30 and 31? Especially since Boo came out?
So what would you guys rate this book?