To Kill a Mockingbird Discussion Questions Ch. 9-11
First, choose three discussion moves you’d like to practice during this discussion. Write them here:
1.
2.
3.
After the discussion, write about how successfully you integrated these moves:
1. To Kill a Mockingbird is sometimes a challenged book. Some adults think it is too adult for teens to read. One
objection they have is the use of the N word. What do you think? Also, what does Atticus explain to Scout
about the use of that word?
2. Why does Scout get into fights with Cecil Jacobs and her cousin Francis? What do their comments suggest
about Maycomb as a community? What is “Maycomb’s usual disease” (pg. 87)? What does Scout’s response to
these taunts reveal about her?
3. In chapter 10, “One-Shot Finch” shoots a mad dog. Why is the incident with the mad dog significant? What
might the mad dog symbolize? Think about what Atticus said about
“Maycomb’s usual disease” (pg. 87)?
4. When Scout describes their neighborhood she says that the unanimous neighborhood opinion of Mrs. Dubose
is that she is “the meanest old woman who ever lived (35).” Because she is so mean, it is often difficult to
understand the part when Atticus makes Jem read to her every day. Why does Atticus make Jem read to her?
What is it that Jem is supposed to learn from the experience?
5. In chapter 11 of Mockingbird, after Jem has learned that Miss Dubose has died, he becomes hysterical after
opening a box that she has sent containing a “white, waxy, perfect camellia.” Consider the camellia and Jem’s
response to it. What are some possible meanings of the camellia? Comment on their significance.
6. Think about this quote: “Remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird… Mockingbirds don't do one thing but
make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us. That's why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird.” The
mockingbird is an important symbol in the book. What, in your opinion, might a mockingbird represent? Who
are “mockingbirds” so far in the story?
7. In relation to Boo Radley and his house, how do Scout, Jem, and Dill try to test
their courage? In contrast, Atticus says that real courage is “when you know
you’re licked before you begin but you begin anyway and you see it through no
matter what.” Describe acts of courage in the book and analyze whether each
fits Atticus’ definition of real courage. Do you agree with his definition? Why or
why not?