The Catcher in the Rye (2021)

Lesson 19
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ELA

Unit 11

10th Grade

Lesson 19 of 26

Objective


Craft a written response explaining Holden’s changing feelings in chapter 17. 

Explain how Salinger conveys Holden’s mental state in chapter 18.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger  — Chapters 17-18

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

Why does Salinger include such a lengthy description of the movie?

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Sample Response

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The description of the movie reinforces which of the following themes?

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Sample Response

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Writing Prompt

How would you describe Holden’s current mental state? Why?

Key Questions


Chapter 18:

  • Why do you think Holden goes to the phone booth? 
  • How does Holden feel about Al Pike? 
  • Who do you think actually has an inferiority complex, Al Pike or Bob Robinson? 
  • Underline evidence that characterizes Carl Luce. Why does Holden call him?
  • Where does Holden go on p. 152 and why?
  • Track details Holden notices during the performance. What theme does this indicate?
  • How do these details reinforce his view of religion?
  • Why does Salinger include such a lengthy description of the movie? How does the description help to develop theme?
  • On p. 155, Holden discusses D.B.’s experience in the army. What similarities do D.B. and Holden have?
  • What are Holden’s opinions of the two books mentioned at the end of the chapter? Why?
  • How is Salinger using structure in this chapter? What is he communicating?

Notes


  • The teacher should begin class with a timed, independent written response using yesterday's’ evidence. The timing can help the teacher assess the pace at which students are able to produce on-demand writing at this point in the year. It does not have to be timed if this is not a skill you will focus on teaching this year.
  • After the writing, transition to chapter 18. In this chapter,
  • Salinger mentions Dickens, The Great Gatsby, and Hemingway. Be sure to briefly recap these works to students so they can analyze the significance of the allusions. 

Next

Explain what we learn about Holden from his interaction with Luce, using both explicitly stated and implicitly implied information.

Lesson 20
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