Just before the court hears the verdict, Scout thinks it was like watching "Atticus walk into the street, raise a rifle to his shoulder and pull the trigger, but watching all the time knowing that the gun was empty." What is the significance of this line?
The significance of this line, that Scout thinks to herself, is that Atticus fought a good fight but knew that he did not have the right conditions to win. Even though he had all the right facts and gave a good delivery of them in the court room, the conditions of that time, where prejudism against Blacks was prevalent and didn't allow people to accept the facts if they favored to the Blacks.
~ Rayleen Struik
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Thursday, March 8, 2012
The Town Responds to the Outcome of the Trial (SK's class)
Ch. 21/22: Using Miss Maudie, Miss Stephanie, and Bob Ewell as examples, describe the town’s response to the trial.
Depending on their opinion of segregation, the town members reacted very differently. Miss Maudie was disappointed in the outcome. She saw the town as white-only people, which they were. People didn’t like Negroes, but they loved all the whites. She was mad because, even though the jury knew Tom was innocent, he was convicted guilty. This wasn’t fair, he shouldn’t be considered guilty because of his skin colour.
Miss Stephanie said she didn’t care too much about the trial, but she really did. She wanted Tom to be convicted, and that he was. She loved to spread rumors, and when she found out that Tom was convicted, she had something she could tell everyone. It wasn’t a rumor, but she adored gossip. She would always be gossiping about something, and this gave her one more thing to spread. Obviously, Bob Ewell was happy about the outcome of the trial, because it was against his daughter. He was really the one who beat his daughter, but knew that, if he blamed it on a black man, he would be convicted guilty. Bob wanted to get out of the things he did, so he blamed it on Tom. When Tom was proven guilty, Bob was a very happy man. He knew what he did was wrong, but was willing to do anything to get out of it.
The town, overall, was fairly pleased with the outcome. People didn’t like Negroes very much, so when one more left, they were happy. Even though most people knew it was wrong, they were pleased with the departure of a black man. That was the white people at least. The other black people in the town were obviously very upset, and angry, but they couldn’t do anything about it. Nobody listened to black people.
Cole V.
The Town Responds to the Outcome of the Trial (SDH's class)
Ch. 21/22: Using Miss Maudie, Miss Stephanie, and Bob Ewell as examples, describe the town’s response to the trial.
~ Reagan V.
~ Reagan V.
Standing in the Balcony (SK's class)
Ch. 21: Explain Reverend Sykes’ statement, “Miss Jean Louise, stand up. Your father’s passin’.”
He made this comment to jean because he wanted her to show respect for what Atticus had done to help protect Tom Robinson. Standing Up for someone when they walk by means you are showing respect for something this person has done. Because Atticus really did an amazing thing by standing up for this man when no one else cared to do so. He even knew he was going to lose but he took a risk and did it anyways because he knew it was ultimately the right thing thing to do no matter the circumstance.
Lucas V.
He made this comment to jean because he wanted her to show respect for what Atticus had done to help protect Tom Robinson. Standing Up for someone when they walk by means you are showing respect for something this person has done. Because Atticus really did an amazing thing by standing up for this man when no one else cared to do so. He even knew he was going to lose but he took a risk and did it anyways because he knew it was ultimately the right thing thing to do no matter the circumstance.
Lucas V.
Standing in the Balcony (SDH's class)
Ch. 21: Explain Reverend Sykes’ statement, “Miss Jean Louise, stand up. Your father’s passin’.”
~ Willem VW
~ Willem VW
Tom on the Stand (SK's class)
Ch. 20: What are the techniques Gilmer uses to intimidate Tom? Why does Dill cry?
In chapter 19 Mr. Gilmer questions Tom in a harsh manner using a cruel technique. Mr. Gilmer focuses on all of the things that could have proved that Tom was guilty. It was not based off of clear evidence. For example on pg. 196 Mr. Gilmer says, "Robinson, you're pretty good at busting up chiffarobes and kindling with one hand, aren't you?" Tom replies yes and then Mr Gilmer says, "Strong enough to choke the breath out of a woman and sling her to the floor?" Using these kinds of questions he frames Tom. If Tom says he isn't strong he would be lying about what he is capable of and it would make him sound like he was trying to get out of being convicted. Dill cries because he is sick at how Mr. Gilmer speaks to Tom. On pg. 198 he says to Tom, "Are you being impudent to me, boy?" He is very degrading towards Tom in the way he speaks and this bothers Dill. Scout tries to explain to him that Tom is just a Negro but Dill strongly believes that it isn't right to treat any person that way. All of these things show how black people were viewed in Maycomb.
n. schoepp
Tom on the Stand (SDH's class)
Ch. 20: What are the techniques Gilmer uses to intimidate Tom? Why does Dill cry?
~ Chelsea T.
~ Chelsea T.
Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place (SK's class)
Ch. 19/20: Why was Tom in such a difficult spot once he set foot in the Ewell house?
Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place (SDH's class)
Ch. 19/20: Why was Tom in such a difficult spot once he set foot in the Ewell house?
~ Wes S.
~ Wes S.
Testimonies (SK's class)
Ch. 17/18: Pay very close attention to the testimonies. Are there inconsistencies?
Testimonies (SDH's class)
Ch. 17/18: Pay very close attention to the testimonies. Are there inconsistencies?
~ Lee P.
~ Lee P.
The Ewell Place (SK's class)
Ch. 17/18: Think about the description of the Ewell place. Why are there geraniums in that yard?
The Ewell Place (SDH's class)
Ch. 17/18: Think about the description of the Ewell place. Why are there geraniums in that yard?
~ Kayitesi N.
~ Kayitesi N.
Dolphus Raymond (SK's class)
Ch. 15/16: Why is Dolphus Raymond in the book?
I believe Dolphus Raymond is in TKAM as another way of showing us that Maycomb just isn't quite right as well as to show us what people had to do in order to live there. When we first meet him we know him as a drunk man who associates himself with the black community. No one in that time could understand why a white man would get himself involved with coloured people. People in Maycomb liked to think that he didn't change his ways because he was a drunk...it was an excuse. Later on however we discover that Mr.Raymond really isn't a drunk and that all he drinks is coca-cola. He does this because it allows people to justify their opinion about him; because without a justification they might have to stop and think that their opinion is highly wrong. He also does it to get people off of his back. If he drank then people would think that he was just not in his right mind. All of this shows how corrupt the thinking in Maycomb was. What kind of person should have to pretend to drink so that other people won't criticize them for being with coloured people? He had to make many decisions and give up a few things in order to be even a little bit accepted. Mr. Raymond showed us the compromises poeple had to make in order to live in a community where they didn't fit in.
Madeline H.
I believe Dolphus Raymond is in TKAM as another way of showing us that Maycomb just isn't quite right as well as to show us what people had to do in order to live there. When we first meet him we know him as a drunk man who associates himself with the black community. No one in that time could understand why a white man would get himself involved with coloured people. People in Maycomb liked to think that he didn't change his ways because he was a drunk...it was an excuse. Later on however we discover that Mr.Raymond really isn't a drunk and that all he drinks is coca-cola. He does this because it allows people to justify their opinion about him; because without a justification they might have to stop and think that their opinion is highly wrong. He also does it to get people off of his back. If he drank then people would think that he was just not in his right mind. All of this shows how corrupt the thinking in Maycomb was. What kind of person should have to pretend to drink so that other people won't criticize them for being with coloured people? He had to make many decisions and give up a few things in order to be even a little bit accepted. Mr. Raymond showed us the compromises poeple had to make in order to live in a community where they didn't fit in.
Madeline H.
The Mob (SK's class)
Chapter 15/16: What was it that caused a mob to form? To disperse? Why do people do things while part of a mob they wouldn’t do if on their own?
The Mob (SDH's class)
Chapter 15/16: What was it that caused a mob to form? To disperse? Why do people do things while part of a mob they wouldn’t do if on their own?
~ Krista H.
~ Krista H.
It Takes a Woman (SK's class)
Ch. 13: Explain the last line of chapter 13.
I think Scout knows that Atticus' job wasn't to console the children on how they should live up to the "Finch" name. She knew immediately that it wasn't Atticus saying that, it was more Aunt Alexandra putting pressure on Atticus to talk to the children. I think that this is why Scout starts to cry, Atticus was talking to Scout in his "lawyer voice" and this may confuse Scout because she knows that this isn't the real Atticus, Atticus appears to be angry with himself for even mentioning the topic "He went to the door and out of the room, shutting the door behind him. He nearly slammed it..." (Lee 134). He regrets it because he knows that Scout and Jem didn't get it and that they did not need to hear that, they were being raised perfectly fine, it was too much to say. The last line is significant because Scout states that Atticus shouldn't have done anything, that was the role of a woman or mother figure to have this talk, Aunt Alexandra or Calpurnia should have said this, not rely on Atticus, a figure that is someone that the children deeply know, they know just about every aspect of how he talks and behaves around them, for him to talk out of charcter is abnormal to console her and Jem, it was out of place for a man like Atticus to be doing something like this.
I think Scout knows that Atticus' job wasn't to console the children on how they should live up to the "Finch" name. She knew immediately that it wasn't Atticus saying that, it was more Aunt Alexandra putting pressure on Atticus to talk to the children. I think that this is why Scout starts to cry, Atticus was talking to Scout in his "lawyer voice" and this may confuse Scout because she knows that this isn't the real Atticus, Atticus appears to be angry with himself for even mentioning the topic "He went to the door and out of the room, shutting the door behind him. He nearly slammed it..." (Lee 134). He regrets it because he knows that Scout and Jem didn't get it and that they did not need to hear that, they were being raised perfectly fine, it was too much to say. The last line is significant because Scout states that Atticus shouldn't have done anything, that was the role of a woman or mother figure to have this talk, Aunt Alexandra or Calpurnia should have said this, not rely on Atticus, a figure that is someone that the children deeply know, they know just about every aspect of how he talks and behaves around them, for him to talk out of charcter is abnormal to console her and Jem, it was out of place for a man like Atticus to be doing something like this.
Sfilice
Aunt Alexandra Comes to Town (SK's class)
Chapter 13/14: What affect does Aunt Alexandra have on the routines of Atticus, Jem, and Scout?
Kevin E.
Aunt Alexandra Comes to Town (SDH's class)
Chapter 13/14: What affect does Aunt Alexandra have on the routines of Atticus, Jem, and Scout?
Aunt Alexandra results in some change for Atticus, Jem and Scout. When Aunt Alexandra comes she is focuses on sticking to her morals and she tries to make Jem and Scout stick to good morals as well as, all of them hear a lot more about everyone in the town and current events in the town. The person who Aunt Alexandra coming has the biggest effect on is Scout. Aunt Alexandra tries to make scout much more lady like and where more dresses. Also, she attempts to get Scout to socialize with the missionary circle as well as get her more integrated with the community of ladies in Maycomb. lastly she strives to rid her of the things Scout does that makes her more of a tomboy. In chapter 13 aunt Alexandra even says, “We decided that it would be best for you to have some feminine influence.” Aunt Alexandra did try to change Atticus, Jem, but most of all, Scout.
~Kgritter
Calpurnia & the Black Community (SK's class)
Chapter 11/12: What do you learn about Calpurnia and the black community in town?
In chapter 12 Atticus get called to a special session and leaves for 2 weeks. Cal, doesn't trust the children to go to church alone so instead she takes the two to her church, First Purchase African M.E Church. While they were there the kids sit through mass and everything but when it was time to sing the hymes Jem and Scout notice that there are no books. How are they going to sing with out books? To much of their surprise Zeebo stands with a book and sings line by line with the congregation following. This was odd to the children, never having done that at their church. By the time the collection came around Rev. Sykes stated that the donation will go to Tom Robinson’s Wife. When Rev. Sykes counted the collection he told everyone that there was not enough money, so he locked the doors of the church and held everyone hostage till they collected the 10 dollars needed to get Mrs.Robinson through the week.
What you learn about Cal in Chapter 12 is that she is one of the few people in her congregation who can read. She also taught her eldest son, Zeebo, to read. She taught him using The Bible and Blackstone’s Commentaries as reading material. Blackstone’s Commentaries was a gift from the kid’s grandfather and is rather a difficult book. That’s why Cal talks differently than all the other black people. We also learn that Cal celebrates her birthday on Christmas because “It’s easier to remember that way” and that she is rather old.
D.De La Cruz
Calpurnia & the Black Community (SDH's class)
Chapter 11/12: What do you learn about Calpurnia and the black community in town?
~ Nathan E.
~ Nathan E.
Monday, March 5, 2012
True Courage (SK's class)
Explain Atticus’s definition of courage (at end of ch. 11).
According to Atticus courage was when “you can see something through no matter what”. His definition of courage was show through what he said about Mrs. Dubose, and through himself.
According to Atticus courage was when “you can see something through no matter what”. His definition of courage was show through what he said about Mrs. Dubose, and through himself.
Atticus defined courage through the way that he defended Tom Robinson even though people called him rude, and mean names. HIs definition of courage was also found through how he talked about Mrs. Dubose. He admired (?) her and this was shown through how he talked about her after she passed to Jem. He said “Jem, when you’re sick as she was, it’s all right to take anythingto make it easier, but it wasn’t all right for her.” and “I wanted you to see what real courage is instead of getting the idea that courage is a man holding a gun.”
Atticus’s view of courage was not that of being able to do something to make a problem go away, but to instead stick with what you are doing no matter what you go through.
Charissa W.
When is it OK to Kill? (SK's class)
Why does Atticus consider it a sin to kill a mockingbird but okay to kill a mad dog?
“Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird.”. This quote from Atticus Finch is very meaningful and important in TKAM. Atticus believes that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird but not to kill a blue jay or a mad dog. This is because mockingbirds are innocent. They do nothing to harm anyone in anyway. The only thing they do is sing peacefully and mind their own business. On the other hand, a mad dog is very dangerous to have running around loose in Maycomb. Mad dog is another term for a dog with rabies. There is a big difference between a mad dog and a mockingbird. Atticus’ opinion on this topic is very reasonable and he has every right to think so. This quote is very central for the book TKAM. I believe that we will see and find more examples of this idea as we keep reading further on.
“Shoot all the blue jays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird.”. This quote from Atticus Finch is very meaningful and important in TKAM. Atticus believes that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird but not to kill a blue jay or a mad dog. This is because mockingbirds are innocent. They do nothing to harm anyone in anyway. The only thing they do is sing peacefully and mind their own business. On the other hand, a mad dog is very dangerous to have running around loose in Maycomb. Mad dog is another term for a dog with rabies. There is a big difference between a mad dog and a mockingbird. Atticus’ opinion on this topic is very reasonable and he has every right to think so. This quote is very central for the book TKAM. I believe that we will see and find more examples of this idea as we keep reading further on.
JVISSCHER
When is it OK to Kill? (SDH's class)
Why does Atticus consider it a sin to kill a mockingbird but okay to kill a mad dog?
Atticus did not physically say that it was okay to kill a mad dog, but a reason can be found by inferring to Miss Maudies explanation of killing mockingbirds being sinful. “Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat up people’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” What this says, is that it’s a sin to kill whatever does no harm. But in the case of a mad dog, which has a good deal of potential harm, as mentioned by Heck Tate multiple times. Resulting in that it was not a sin to kill a mad dog because of the harm it could cause if given the time.
~ Justin V.
Ol' One-Shot (SK's class)
Why do you think Atticus never let on he was an expert marksman?
Atticus was a very sharp shooter, his nickname was One-shot when he was a kid. He did not tell his kids of his marksmanship gifts. The reason that he didn’t inform Jem and Scout about his gift was because he wasn’t proud of it. Like Miss Maudie said “People in their right minds never take pride in their talents.” Atticus wasn’t proud of being an extremely gifted shooter because he came to realize that, “Marksmanship’s a gift of God, a talent... he put his gun down when he realized that that God has given him an unfair advantage over most living things.” He only would use his talent when it was needed, and it was needed the day the mad dog came around.
R Vander Meulen
Atticus was a very sharp shooter, his nickname was One-shot when he was a kid. He did not tell his kids of his marksmanship gifts. The reason that he didn’t inform Jem and Scout about his gift was because he wasn’t proud of it. Like Miss Maudie said “People in their right minds never take pride in their talents.” Atticus wasn’t proud of being an extremely gifted shooter because he came to realize that, “Marksmanship’s a gift of God, a talent... he put his gun down when he realized that that God has given him an unfair advantage over most living things.” He only would use his talent when it was needed, and it was needed the day the mad dog came around.
R Vander Meulen
Ol' One-Shot (SDH's class)
Why do you think Atticus never let on he was an expert marksman?
I believe Atticus’s main reason for not revealing his skill as a expert marksman was to help maintain his career as a lawyer. He most likely felt that the people of Maycomb would no longer trust him in court knowing he was once called “One-Shot Finch”. Although I believe Atticus would never resort to violence, the gossips of the town would spread lies about his criminal history which would destroy his reputable career. The character of Atticus is a civilized pacifist who only uses his talent as a last resort, Miss Maudie explains this to Jem and Scout by saying “If your fathers anything, he’s civilized in his heart....I guess he decided he wouldn’t shoot till he had to”. Atticus could also have been thinking of his children, what would they do if they new he was once the best shot in town? As a father, Atticus didn’t want his children to grow up thinking that courage is a man with a gun and his hand, but rather courage is standing up for something you believe in without using force.
~ Paul T.
Licked a hundred Years Before We Started (SK's class)
Discuss Atticus’s explanation of the case to Scout. What does he mean by “Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win”?
Atticus had to explain to Scout that in the case where he was representing a black man, he had almost no chance at winning, But he is still willing to try. Atticus knew that he had no chance at winning the case. He knew this because the jury was made up entirely of white people who lived in a time where all black men were perceived by white people as criminals.
Griffin S.O.
Atticus had to explain to Scout that in the case where he was representing a black man, he had almost no chance at winning, But he is still willing to try. Atticus knew that he had no chance at winning the case. He knew this because the jury was made up entirely of white people who lived in a time where all black men were perceived by white people as criminals.
Griffin S.O.
Licked a Hundred Years Before We Started (SDH's class)
Discuss Atticus’s explanation of the case to Scout. What does he mean by “Simply because we were licked a hundred years before we started is no reason for us not to try to win”?
Atticus is discussing the case, and how it affects him personally. Scout had come to ask her father if he defended "n_______s", and Atticus had replied with, "of course". He came to explain that everyone gets a case that can affect him very personally. Then he told her that if he didnt defend Tom Robinson,(and here we get a glimpse at how good a father he can be), then he wouldnt be able to tell his kids to do anything, and they wouldnt have to listen to him again and he wouldnt be able to hold his head up in town again. He explains that she has to not let them get her goat, and to keep her fists down. He admits to Scout that he won't win, but that he still has to try. Thats what he means by that statement. He has to try and create change by defending Tom, and hoping that in the future, change will come because of people like him. We see a glimpse of what he is talking about in the last few chapters of the book, bu thats a secret..until everyone else is done the book.
~ Ben T.
Wrapped in a Blanket (SK's class)
How did Scout wind up with a blanket across her shoulders?
It all started when Ms. Maudie’s house got set on fire. Scout and Jem decided to go off to Boo Radleys place. Later Scout and Jem walked into the house and Atticus enquired who’s blanket was on Scouts shoulders. Upon much conversation Scout figured out that the blanket had been put on her shoulders by Boo Radley while she was watching the fire. This made her a little sick to think about since she was scared of him. But perhaps it gave her a new perspective on him. Perhaps she thought he wasn’t a monster after all.
Jody R.
It all started when Ms. Maudie’s house got set on fire. Scout and Jem decided to go off to Boo Radleys place. Later Scout and Jem walked into the house and Atticus enquired who’s blanket was on Scouts shoulders. Upon much conversation Scout figured out that the blanket had been put on her shoulders by Boo Radley while she was watching the fire. This made her a little sick to think about since she was scared of him. But perhaps it gave her a new perspective on him. Perhaps she thought he wasn’t a monster after all.
Jody R.
Wrapped in a Blanket (SDH's class)
How did Scout wind up with a blanket across her shoulders?
In the book it doesn’t really specify how the blanket ended up on her shoulders. The book hints that it is Arthur “Boo” Radley was the one that put the blanket on Scout’s shoulders. Mr. Nathan was out of the house, helping Ms. Maudie with getting furniture out of her house while it was on fire. That would explain how Boo got out of the house with no one knowing. So it is most likely Boo Radley put the blanket on Scouts shoulder.
~ Daniel R.
Mended Pants (SK's class)
In ch. 7 explain Jem’s statement: “When I went back they were folded across the fence. . . like they were expectin’ me.”
when jem was saying that it was almost expecting me, it almost confirmed that boo radley was out there because they were sown like he would've sown himself because it was a rough looking job and he knew that it couldn't of been Atticus because Atticus would've brought them home and ask why they were there and the pants looked as if it was done by somebody who couldn't sow really well because they did a similar job to something Jem would do. So it means that there really is a mystery person
s. oudijn
when jem was saying that it was almost expecting me, it almost confirmed that boo radley was out there because they were sown like he would've sown himself because it was a rough looking job and he knew that it couldn't of been Atticus because Atticus would've brought them home and ask why they were there and the pants looked as if it was done by somebody who couldn't sow really well because they did a similar job to something Jem would do. So it means that there really is a mystery person
s. oudijn
Mended Pants (SDH's class)
In ch. 7 explain Jem’s statement: “When I went back they were folded across the fence. . . like they were expectin’ me.”
Parting Company (SK's class)
What does Scout mean by “It was then that Jem and I first began to part company?” p.56
“It was then that Jem and I first began to part Company.”
The statement Scout pronounced justifies the increasing divergence in her sister-brother relationship with Jem. She reinforces her point when she states “then he neglected me”(pg. 41)and “ Jem and dill excluded me from their plans” (pg.42). Evident in earlier chapters Scout and Jem have gradually been separating. The four year age difference between the two caused many implications dealing with maturity levels and colleagues. In addition, being the opposite gender created repercussions concerning interests, roles, and opinions. Likewise the invasive interference of Dill had huge consequences on their mutual relationship. He forced a giant wedge in their friendship causing them to stray. Overall all of the attributes cause Jem and Scout’s connection to slowly disintegrate.
Collin M.
“It was then that Jem and I first began to part Company.”
The statement Scout pronounced justifies the increasing divergence in her sister-brother relationship with Jem. She reinforces her point when she states “then he neglected me”(pg. 41)and “ Jem and dill excluded me from their plans” (pg.42). Evident in earlier chapters Scout and Jem have gradually been separating. The four year age difference between the two caused many implications dealing with maturity levels and colleagues. In addition, being the opposite gender created repercussions concerning interests, roles, and opinions. Likewise the invasive interference of Dill had huge consequences on their mutual relationship. He forced a giant wedge in their friendship causing them to stray. Overall all of the attributes cause Jem and Scout’s connection to slowly disintegrate.
Collin M.
Parting Company (SDH's class)
What does Scout mean by “It was then that Jem and I first began to part company?” p.56
She infers that they began to grow further apart in their relationship of undertanding and confidence in each other. Jem keeps more to himself then he used to over the next little while, and Scout has a harder time understanding him.
pg.61: “He had been on the verge of telling me something all evening; his face would brighten and he would lean toward, then he would change his mind.”
He becomes more private and keeps things to himself as time passes and more incidents happen. Most of the time, his quiet solitude is a result of experiences involving Boo Radley. For example, the situation that was happening during the topic quote involved Jem attempting to sneak out at night to retrieve the pants he had lost when they where in Boo’s backyard. He later began to think about how when he retrieved them they had been sewn back together and folded neatly for him.
pg 58: ‘Jem took a deep breath. ‘When I went back, they where folded across the fence... like they where expectin’ me.’ ‘Across-’ ‘And something else-’ Jem’s voice grew flat. ‘Show you when we get home. They’d been sewed up. Not like a lady sewed ‘em, like somethin’ I’d try to do. All crooked. It’s almost like-’ ‘-Somebody knew you where comin’ back for ‘em’
In time the differences between him and Scout become more obvious and Jem begins to become a more solitary individual. This is likely to result in a more confused relationship between him and Scout. I wonder where this is going to lead with the Boo Radley incidents?
bleenheer
She infers that they began to grow further apart in their relationship of undertanding and confidence in each other. Jem keeps more to himself then he used to over the next little while, and Scout has a harder time understanding him.
pg.61: “He had been on the verge of telling me something all evening; his face would brighten and he would lean toward, then he would change his mind.”
He becomes more private and keeps things to himself as time passes and more incidents happen. Most of the time, his quiet solitude is a result of experiences involving Boo Radley. For example, the situation that was happening during the topic quote involved Jem attempting to sneak out at night to retrieve the pants he had lost when they where in Boo’s backyard. He later began to think about how when he retrieved them they had been sewn back together and folded neatly for him.
pg 58: ‘Jem took a deep breath. ‘When I went back, they where folded across the fence... like they where expectin’ me.’ ‘Across-’ ‘And something else-’ Jem’s voice grew flat. ‘Show you when we get home. They’d been sewed up. Not like a lady sewed ‘em, like somethin’ I’d try to do. All crooked. It’s almost like-’ ‘-Somebody knew you where comin’ back for ‘em’
In time the differences between him and Scout become more obvious and Jem begins to become a more solitary individual. This is likely to result in a more confused relationship between him and Scout. I wonder where this is going to lead with the Boo Radley incidents?
bleenheer
The Radley Game (SK's class)
Why do the children play the “Radley Game”?
I believe the children played the Radley game simply because of their fascination with the Radley family.
This game provides a way for the children to explore the stories they have heard about the Radley's and find the missing pieces to the puzzle of the Radley's life. As well, its another way for them to answer the continuing question they have about the Radley's." What they didn't
So in conclusion to the question I think the children played the game to learn more about the Radley's and to pass time.
M.Huculak
The Radley Game (SDH's class)
Why do the children play the “Radley Game”?
The children play the "Radley Game" because they are interested in braving the dangers of the Radleys’ place. The strange thing was, not all of them were interested in this game to begin with. It was really Dill who was interested in a particular Radley because of his monstrous reputation of eating squirrels and bein’ a scoundrel. Being known as a monster, there is no surprise Dill is so interested in him. Who is that you ask? Boo Radley. (“Boo drove the scissors into his parent’s leg, pulled them out, wiped them on his pants, and resumed his activities” (Page 11)) (“he dined on raw squirrels and any cats he could catch,” (Page 13)). Dill wants to find a way to make Boo Radley come out, but at the same time, not get eaten, because the kids want to befriend Boo Radley. Another reason the kids might want to play the game is because they want to find out if Boo Radley is still alive, and what he would do if he came out. Jem of course, is pressured to join in the game, along with Scout, because Dill thinks that anyone who doesn’t want Boo Radley to come out is a coward. To be honest, I’m sure if Jem and Scout didn’t know anything about the Radley’s place, or were not pressured to play the game, they wouldn’t.
In other words, the kids want to know what Boo’s life was really like, and if he was the reason any person or thing in or around the Radleys’ area was doomed (example from the book: “Radley Pecans would kill you. A baseball hit into the Radley yard was a lost ball and no questions asked” (Page 9)). How can they do this without trying it out for themselves? Some things have to be tried to be proven. After all, kids are curious, but ignorant creatures. Sometimes they don’t know how dangerous something truly is, or whether it’s real or not, until it’s too late. Kids will be kids, and sometimes they want to or have to learn things the hard way.
Overall, the kids want to see Boo’s reaction to their disturbance.
~ Attalie K.
Atticus Finch: The Same Man at Home & in Public (SK's class)
What does it mean that “Atticus Finch is the same in his house as he is on the public streets?” p. 46
I think that it means that Atticus Finch isn’t two sided. How he acts when he’s out in public, around his friends, or to any passerby is the same as how he is at home around his children and family. A quote from one of Atticus’ kids confirms my thoughts. Jean Louise said (on page 46)“Atticus don’t ever do anything to Jem and me in the house that he don’t do in the yard”. The fact that she took no time to try and come up with or think about this answer, seems to confirm to me that this is the truth. In conclusion, this quote shows how Atticus’ actions in and out of the house correspond with each other but it doesn’t explain weather it’s a good thing or a bad thing.
Christine G.
Atticus Finch: The Same Man at Home & in Public (SDH's class)
What is the main idea in Chapter 6?
The theme of chapter six is that the boys were curious and wanted to see Boo. They didn’t listen to what Atticus said to just leave Boo alone and let him do what he wants. The kids curiosity over came there better judgment or they just want to listen. There can be a few things taken out of this chapter, one that they should have listened to Atticus. Two that there curiosity if not careful will get you into some serous trouble. Lastly three that they shouldn’t go nosing around in people personal space. Also that the boys were pushing Scout away because she was scared and new better. “ I declare to the Lord you are gettin’ more like a girl every day!” She was listening to Atticus. Dill and Jeb said for her to go home but she didn’t want to.
~ Nichola H.
Miss Maudie (SK's class)
What clues do you have about Miss Maudie’s character?
We know that Miss Maudie is an old time friend of the Linch Family. She didn’t like spending time inside her house because to her, it was time wasted. She loves God’s beautiful creation and spends a great amount of time in her yard. She is very nice and humble. Her and Scout started a pretty close friendship to where Scout is very open to her. Miss Maudie is very satisfied with herself and enjoys the time she has with children as well as by herself in her yard. She is very open and opens her yard to anyone. And that are some clues we have about Miss Maudie’s character so far in the book.
Tristian G.
We know that Miss Maudie is an old time friend of the Linch Family. She didn’t like spending time inside her house because to her, it was time wasted. She loves God’s beautiful creation and spends a great amount of time in her yard. She is very nice and humble. Her and Scout started a pretty close friendship to where Scout is very open to her. Miss Maudie is very satisfied with herself and enjoys the time she has with children as well as by herself in her yard. She is very open and opens her yard to anyone. And that are some clues we have about Miss Maudie’s character so far in the book.
Tristian G.
Miss Maudie (SDH's class)
What clues do you have about Miss Maudie’s character?
She seems like a very nice lady. Her willingness to let the children run around wildly in her yard without anything in return was quite the nice gesture. In chapter six, when Jem and Dill stop paying attention to Scout, Scout makes an unusual new friendship with Miss Maudie. Surprisingly Scout can talk to her about anything. She is a great one on one listener. She also makes amazing cakes for the kids to eat after playing around all day. She seams kind of lonely when she tends to her flowers all by herself, but then at the same time quite satisfied with herself. She is a very nice lady so far but I guess we will see more in the next few chapters of the book.
~ Leah G.
Scout & Calpurnia: A Child's Perspective (SK's class)
Describe Scout’s relationship with Calpurnia. Can we trust Scout’s perspective on this issue?
Scout’s relationship with Calpurnia is both good and bad. Cal is more scouts mom then she is their cook. For example when scout makes fun of the Cunningham boy for pouring syrup on his dinner. Cal teaches scout a very important lesson of treating everyone equaly and with respect. “... Don’t matter who they are anybody who sets foot in this house’s yo’ comp’ny...”
(pg 24) I Don’t think scout likes when Cal tell her what to do, he thinks of Cal as just the cook, but scout still minds Cal. “.. I told Cal to just wait, I’d fix her...” (pg25) Scout also blames Cal for his problems with Mrs Caroline. “.. She’d already gotten me in trouble once today: she had taught me to read and write and it was all her fault.” (pg 25) I have noticed that in the later chapters scout has a better relationship with Cal. For example when scout is feeling lonely because Jem is getting older. Cal says “.. So you just come right on in the kitchen when you feel lonesome.” i think we can trust scout perspective. Cal doesn’t seem suspicious to me.
Carley E.
Scout’s relationship with Calpurnia is both good and bad. Cal is more scouts mom then she is their cook. For example when scout makes fun of the Cunningham boy for pouring syrup on his dinner. Cal teaches scout a very important lesson of treating everyone equaly and with respect. “... Don’t matter who they are anybody who sets foot in this house’s yo’ comp’ny...”
(pg 24) I Don’t think scout likes when Cal tell her what to do, he thinks of Cal as just the cook, but scout still minds Cal. “.. I told Cal to just wait, I’d fix her...” (pg25) Scout also blames Cal for his problems with Mrs Caroline. “.. She’d already gotten me in trouble once today: she had taught me to read and write and it was all her fault.” (pg 25) I have noticed that in the later chapters scout has a better relationship with Cal. For example when scout is feeling lonely because Jem is getting older. Cal says “.. So you just come right on in the kitchen when you feel lonesome.” i think we can trust scout perspective. Cal doesn’t seem suspicious to me.
Carley E.
Scout & Calpurnia: A Child's Perspective (SDH's class)
Describe Scout’s relationship with Calpurnia. Can we trust Scout’s perspective on this issue?
In Scout's opinion, Calpurnia is always favouring Jem over her and she is always getting mad at her. "She was all angles and bones; she was nearsighted; she squinted; her hand was wide as a bed slat and twice as hard. She was always ordering me out of the kitchen, asking me why I couldn't behave as well as Jem when she knew he was older, and
calling me home when I wasn't ready to come." -pg. 6
No, I don't think that we can trust Scout with her perspective on this issue, because Scout's still young and she doesn't understand that Calpurnia only cares a lot about her, and wants what's best for her. "Calpurnia bent down and kissed me. I ran along, wondering what had come over her. She had wanted to make up with me, that was it. She had always been too hard on me, she had at last seen the error of her fractious ways, she was sorry and too stubborn to say so." -pg. 29. Scout still has a lot to learn, she needs to realize that Calpurnia cares for her and Jem equally, and that she's just trying to give Scout what's best for her.
~ Avery F.
Someone inside the house was laughing (SK's class)
Chapter 4: What do you make of the last line of Chapter 4?
Erin D.
The last sentence in chapter four is the start of a different direction in the book. Before that one sentence the book was focused on getting to know the characters and their community. Until that point the reader is not sure if Boo Radley even exists anymore, because no one has seen him in years. The author uses foreshadowing on page 38 to hint that a change is coming “ ‘Nothing to it. I swear, Scout, sometimes you act so much like a girl it is mortifyin’.’
There was more to it then he knew, but I decided not to tell him.” We then find out that someone is living in that house; catching the interest of the reader making you want to read on.
Erin D.
Someone inside the house was laughing. (SDH's Class)
Chapter 4: What do you make of the last line of Chapter 4?
Boo Radley had not been bothered, disturbed, or aggravated, but amused by the kids behaviour. Scout had realized this when she first ended up in the yard after the tire incident. I think this is very strange because everyone has the though: Author Radley is a horrifying person. Author did not come out of his home and bring any harm to the children, but he sat in his house and laughed because he thought it was funny. Scout did not want to fool around with Mr. Radley anymore and evident of that was when she said, “All right then, you just keep it up, you’ll find out.”
~ Kiana E.
In the Tree (SK's Class)
Chapter 3: Begin a list of items found in the tree. What do you think they mean?
There were many different objects that Jem and Scout found underneath the oak tree. They might not
know who it’s from, but I agree with them that the objects found in the tree are gifts. Now, I will make
another assumption, since the tree is near the Radley place, I assume it’s Boo Radley. Here are the
objects that they have found. Chewing gum- lots of it. Scout’s first reaction was to stuff it in her mouth,
so we can assume that she loves them and the giver knows it. Later they find a wedding ring box with
two shiny Indian head pennies, which were probably highly valued by the owner, and he is willing to
give it up as a gift. The twine is quite a useful tool and maybe meant as a helpful gift. The medal and the
pocket watch with the chain and knife are obviously worth a lot both in money value and precious to
the owner. The two statues were made to resemble Scout and Jem, and shows that he’s been observing
them and trying to know them. This ties in with the thought that, Boo Radley isn’t really a “Bogeyman”
but he might actually be someone of character.
Daniel C.
There were many different objects that Jem and Scout found underneath the oak tree. They might not
know who it’s from, but I agree with them that the objects found in the tree are gifts. Now, I will make
another assumption, since the tree is near the Radley place, I assume it’s Boo Radley. Here are the
objects that they have found. Chewing gum- lots of it. Scout’s first reaction was to stuff it in her mouth,
so we can assume that she loves them and the giver knows it. Later they find a wedding ring box with
two shiny Indian head pennies, which were probably highly valued by the owner, and he is willing to
give it up as a gift. The twine is quite a useful tool and maybe meant as a helpful gift. The medal and the
pocket watch with the chain and knife are obviously worth a lot both in money value and precious to
the owner. The two statues were made to resemble Scout and Jem, and shows that he’s been observing
them and trying to know them. This ties in with the thought that, Boo Radley isn’t really a “Bogeyman”
but he might actually be someone of character.
Daniel C.
In the Tree (SDH's Class)
Chapter 3: Begin a list of items found in the tree. What do you think they mean?
So far, the items that Scout and Jem have found in the knot in the tree have included, chewing gum, two coins, a spelling bee medal, two soap carvings which quite closely resembled both Jem and Scout, and a pocket watch with an aluminum knife on the chain. Since there was two of almost everything I think this means that someone is putting these items in the tree deliberately knowing that there are two children and since the soap carvings resembled both jem and Scout, it means that whoever is putting these items in the tree is putting them out specifically for them. I think that Boo Radley has been putting out these items for Jem and Scout to try and communicate with them and the fact that he has put items such as gum into the tree means that he wants the children to enjoy them. When Nathan Radley comes along and fills in the hole with cement, they are no longer able to collect items from the tree. When they asked him why he had done this he had said that it was because the tree was sick and dying, but when they talked to their father he told them that the tree was perfectly healthy. If it was Boo Radley putting the items in the tree, I think that the reason his dad filled in the hole was to stop him from communicating with Jem and Scout.
~ sanhorn
So far, the items that Scout and Jem have found in the knot in the tree have included, chewing gum, two coins, a spelling bee medal, two soap carvings which quite closely resembled both Jem and Scout, and a pocket watch with an aluminum knife on the chain. Since there was two of almost everything I think this means that someone is putting these items in the tree deliberately knowing that there are two children and since the soap carvings resembled both jem and Scout, it means that whoever is putting these items in the tree is putting them out specifically for them. I think that Boo Radley has been putting out these items for Jem and Scout to try and communicate with them and the fact that he has put items such as gum into the tree means that he wants the children to enjoy them. When Nathan Radley comes along and fills in the hole with cement, they are no longer able to collect items from the tree. When they asked him why he had done this he had said that it was because the tree was sick and dying, but when they talked to their father he told them that the tree was perfectly healthy. If it was Boo Radley putting the items in the tree, I think that the reason his dad filled in the hole was to stop him from communicating with Jem and Scout.
~ sanhorn
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