To Kill a Mockingbird is unquestionably one of the most widely read, best-selling, and influential books in American literature. It has made a significant difference in the lives of individuals and in the culture as a whole. Part of its appeal can be explained by its sensitive and insightful portrayal of race relations in Alabama at a time when the battle for integration and equal rights was at its height in America, and when much of the action was centering on Alabama. Its influence has been enduring because it allows the reader, through the lives of children, "to walk around in the shoes" of people who are different from ourselves. The novel challenges our stereotypes - of the Southerner, the African-American, the eccentric, and the child.

 

Topics covered in the Unit:

Student Requirements:

Student Learnings

  1. Use elements of literature, other literature devices and personal experiences to analyze literature
  2. Understand the impact of history on the arts
  3. Understand and interpret literature written from a variety of perspectives
  4. Respond to literature both critically and personally
  5. Compare, contrast and analyze visual and print presentation of literature
  6. Understand the meaning of unfamiliar words and phrases from contextual definitions and references
  7. Utilize various modes of writing including narrative, analytic, descriptive, and expository.
  8. Apply the conventions of writing grammar, punctuation, spelling, organization and word usage.

Links:

http://www.lausd.k12.ca.us/Belmont_HS/tkm/

www.chebucto.ns.ca/Culture/HarperLee/film.html

www.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/score/tokil/mocktg.htm

www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/to-kill-a-mocking-bird.html

http://library.thinkquest.org/12111/

http://www.chebucto.ns.ca/Culture/HarperLee/