Text Complexity Analysis of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Qualitative Measures
Levels of Meaning/Purpose: The book has at least two layers of interpretation.
One level focuses on the pursuit of the American dream, and the loss of the same.
It also focuses on brotherhood versus isolation.
Quantitative
QualitativeMeasures
Measures
Lexile 630, 2-3 grade band level ATOS 4.5 level
Structure: The story has a largely simple structure. The 3rd person omniscient
narrator shifts perspective to focus on individual characters. The order is
chronological.
Reader-Task Considerations
The complexity of the book’s themes requires a certain maturity. The
issues of mercy killing, references to rape, violence, and explicitly language
require careful handling.
Language Conventionality and Clarity: Consistent use of figurative language
challenges readers to understand the text at different levels. Use of dialect
and occasional sensitive language adds complexity to understanding the text.
Knowledge Demands: The text explores multiple themes, but does at
varying levels. Some cultural knowledge contributes to students;
understanding.
Recommended Placement
We recommend that this novel be in the 6-8 band, with emphasis that it
should be taught to 8th graders due to the mature themes.