Getting the Most out of To Kill a Mockingbird
Amanda Luna
Description:
American Literature students will move to higher levels of
learning if they are aware of the historical topics relevant to the novel,
To Kill aMockingbird. This project helps students first discover
historical information relating to the novel and then learn about
social issues found within the novel.
Instructional Objectives for Project:
The student(s) will be able to:
-
gain exposure to time period through information search using
sources selected for project.
-
demonstrate understanding and analysis of social issues presented
in novel through discussions with other global classrooms.
-
evaluate information gained through electronic appearance,
reading, and background research to create an original power point project.
Summary of Project:
Prior to reading Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird,
students will take part in an information search to find information concerning
topics related to the novel. While reading the novel, students will discuss
social issues, childhood lessons, symbols, and other topics related to
the novel with other classes. Upon completing the novel, the class will
create appropriate interview questions to ask Harper Lee during a planned
electronic appearance. The project will end with the students creating
an original Power Point Project in groups of three to four. Topics for
this project will be decided on by each group and approved by the teacher.
Grade Level targeted by Project:
Grades 9-12
Activities:
-
Using web sites found by teacher, students will search for
background information relating to historical context of the novel.
-
Students will read To Kill a Mockingbird.
-
Students will work with other classes to discuss lessons
learned by Scout, social issues, mockingbird figures, and other topics
relevant to the novel.
-
Students will generate an appropriate list of interview questions
to ask Harper Lee about characters, plot, time period, etc. relating to
the novel.
-
Students will create a Power Point Project in groups of three
to four on an approved topic found in the novel.
Timeline:
Four weeks with other ongoing instruction.
Assessment of Project:
-
Research and presentation of historical information= One
major grade
-
Reading of novel/online discussions with other classes= 1/2
major grade
-
Interview questions generated and participation with electronic
appearance= 1/2 major grade
-
Creation and presentation of Power Point Project= One
major grade
This page created by Amanda Luna,
English teacher at Bryan ISD.
Last updated January 13, 2000.