Process
Brainstorming
Take a look at all the main characters in To Kill A Mockingbird. Using the text, make a list of the pros and cons in those characters' lives. Who had it the toughest? Who did the trial affect the most? The least? Who struggled with racial prejudice? Which characters suffered the most from the Depression? Who learned the most? Who improved?
Helpful Links
An online study guide that provides an analysis of the main themes in the novel
Excellent insight into the text, written especially for students
A helpful guide to understanding the historical context of many themes within the text
Advice Letter
Taking the place of the character of your choice, write a 1-2 page letter to "Dear Abby." Ask her for help from your character. Based on the main events and themes in the text, decide what advice that your character may be seeking.
Maybe Scout and Jem need help solving their debate on how social equality works. Remember the scene with Walter Cunningham? Scout might need help understanding the racial and social injustice going on around her. Is her belief in the good in all people a positive or a negative?
What about Tom Robinson being accused of a crime based purely on the color of his skin? Did he ever have a chance of winning the trial? Would his lawyer, Atticus, want to know how to win the case?
You can choose any character, whether they have a big or small role, and give them a chance to ask for your help.
Helpful Links
"Dear Abby" Website - for examples on letters
A few tips on writing an advice letter
Group Work: Response Letter
Form a group of 3-4 students and share your "Dear Abby" letters with one another. As a group, select a leader and a recorder. Choose one letter to respond to as Abby. Give that character your own advice and opinions on how they should handle the problem they are having. Have the leader of your group record your ideas during discussion. Then compose a final draft to turn in as a group. Your group will present both your problem and solution letters to the class.
Extra Links
Summary and Analysis of the text