The Social-class Motif
Pay attention to the way Sinnott indirectly characterizes each character's social class through her use of specific kinds of hats and clothes, and how these elements of the novel contribute to its atmosphere. Consider creating your own clothing or hat designs to reveal modern social class cues.
Research Topics
Halley’s Comet, discoveries of the 1830s that influenced literature and culture
Abolitionist Movement versus Colonization, making a case
Social expectations for married women in the 1830s versus now; here’s a site introducing women of the era. Here’s one that focuses on women and work.
Opportunities/privileges of each social class in 19th-century Utica.
Writing About Research For Teachers
The National Writing Project (NWP) has an excellent tool to guide students through the formation and development of an argumentation essay and claim statements using multiple, research-based sources. Here’s a link to a wonderful resource, free to teachers, called the Claim-Evidence-Research Protocol tool.
Summarization
Create loglines for chapters- 120 words or fewer - to help track the conflicts.
Post the loglines to class discussion boards and have the classes decide which one best captures the chapter(s).
Create a movie poster or a digital presentation that combines a selection of loglines from the class compilations showcasing the main story’s arc along with visuals that illustrate a plot-theme.
Read the example book reviews and have students write their own. For real-world publishing opportunities, consider selecting the best ones and inviting students to post them on Goodreads, Amazon, Deirdre Sinnott’s author website, or Kaylie Jones Books Facebook page.
Discussion Groups
Utilize the Question Bank: Discussion, Research, and Vocabulary Extensions document to organize a class discussion.