To Kill a Mockingbird - Social Context 1930s Alabama
English
Year 9
7 questions
~14 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet examining the social context of 1930s Alabama as depicted in Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. It focuses on error correction and analysis of literary techniques within the historical setting.
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To Kill a Mockingbird - Social Context 1930s Alabama
Subject: EnglishGrade: Year 9
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Year 9
A
Scene Summary and Context Guide
In Harper Lee's novel, the setting is Maycomb, Alabama, during the 1930s, a period marked by deep racial divisions and economic hardship following the Great Depression. The town reflects the social hierarchy prevalent at the time, with segregation fostering separate and unequal facilities for black and white citizens. Attitudes of prejudice and inequality are woven into daily life, affecting the relationships and opportunities of the characters. The legal system, exemplified through the trial of Tom Robinson, highlights systemic racism and injustice. Harper Lee uses subtle narrative techniques and symbolism to critique societal norms, including the use of language that reinforces stereotypes. The phrase 'Maycomb was a tired, old town, but it was a town full of stories' encapsulates the history and social fabric of the community, illustrating both its charm and its underlying tensions. Understanding this context is critical for interpreting the characters' motivations and the novel's themes of morality, justice, and human dignity.
B
Error Correction Questions
Identify the errors related to literary technique and context in the following excerpts. Correct the errors and explain your corrections.
1.
In the phrase 'Maycomb was a tired, old town,' the adjective 'tired' is an example of a metaphor.
[2 marks]2.
The line 'The town full of stories' uses alliteration to emphasise the town's lively history.
[2 marks]3.
Harper Lee's depiction of racial segregation uses caesura to highlight the division between communities.
[2 marks]4.
The systemic racism portrayed in Tom Robinson's trial is an example of irony in the novel.
[2 marks]5.
Correct the following sentence: 'Harper Lee uses symbolism through the mockingbird to critique society.'
[2 marks]6.
Explain why the phrase 'Maycomb was a tired, old town' is significant in understanding the social context.
C
Creative Response: Writing a Social Commentary
Write a short paragraph (about 150 words) from the perspective of a character in Maycomb commenting on their town during the 1930s. Use at least two literary techniques discussed above (e.g., symbolism, imagery). Ensure your writing reflects the social issues of the time.
1.
Your paragraph should include a clear viewpoint, leverage at least two literary techniques, and accurately depict the social climate of the era.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet