To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Chapter 9

1.  Why is Scout hesitant to fight Cecil Jacobs when it is clear that she’d like to punch him out?

2.  Atticus expect to win the Tom Robinson case?

3. Describe Francis.

4. What holiday is the backdrop for the family gathering?

5. Why was Scout eager to pass the “damn ham” and comment on the “damn story”?

6. What gift did Scout and Jem each receive?

7. What are Dill’s and Scout’s future plans?

8. What does Francis call Atticus that really bothers Scout?

9. Why does Atticus feel that a jury couldn’t possibly be expected to take Tom Robinson’s word against the Ewells’? (see page 88)

10. At the close of the chapter, it was clear that Atticus knew Scout was listening to his conversation with Uncle Jack. Why didn’t he stop her?

Chapter 10

1. Why is it a sin to kill a mockingbird?

2. Why are Jem and Scout ashamed of their father in comparison to other children’s fathers ?

3. Why isn’t Atticus the person to teach Jem and Scout how to shoot?

4. Who is Tim Johnson?

5. What’s wrong with Tim Johnson?

6. Who is Heck Tate?

7. What brave act did Atticus perform that impressed his children?

8. How did Atticus get the nickname “One-Shot Finch”?

9. At the end of the chapter, Jem yelled, “Atticus is a gentleman, just like me!” What does this reveal 

about Jem’s attitude toward Atticus?

10. What is the irony of Atticus being the person to deal with the Tim Johnson crisis?

Chapter 12

1. How did First Purchase Church get its name?

2. Explain what “linin” is at First Purchase.

3. Why is “linin” done at the church and will continue to be done there?

4. Of what crime is Tom Robinson being accused?

5. Who is Zeebo?

6. In what way does Cal live a “double life” and why?