Lesson 6: Chapter 6
Duration of Days: 4
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
Students will be able to determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective summary of the text.
Students will be able to analyze how complex characters (e.g., those with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.
Students will be able to determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone (e.g., how the language evokes a sense of time and place; how it sets a formal or informal tone).
What is the immediate cause of Lennie's actions in this chapter?
How does George's decision to kill Lennie reflect his understanding of Lennie's limitations and the harsh realities of their world?
What is the significance of George's final words to Lennie?
How does this chapter explore the theme of the American Dream and its ultimate failure for George and Lennie?
How does the theme of mercy killing and euthanasia come into play in this chapter?
What is the impact of the setting of the clearing on the emotional intensity of the scene?
mottled (adjective)
lance (verb)
retort (verb)
belligerently (adverb)
monotonous (adjective)
emphasis (noun)
dutifully (adverb)
RL.9-10.2
RL.9-10.1
RL.9-10.3
L.9-10.4.A
RL.9-10.3W.9-10.2
Reading for information
DOK 1-3
Visual glossary
Annotation guide
Complete Independent Read: Of Mice and Men (Chapter 6)
Complete Chapter 6 Think Questions for Close Reading