The Catcher in the Rye (2021)

Lesson 25
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ELA

Unit 11

10th Grade

Lesson 25 of 26

Objective


Analyze and interpret the significance of the last two lines of the novel.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger  — Chapters 25-26

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

Reread the last two lines of the novel: What does Holden mean? How does his statement relate to and/or develop Salinger’s message about isolation and loneliness?

Key Questions


Chapter 25:

  • Where does Holden go to sleep?
  • Examine the structure of the paragraph on pp. 214–216. What does this indicate about Holden’s state of mind? Be specific.
  • What theme does the scene with the Christmas tree show and why?
  • What does Holden notice about the Santa Clauses?
  • What is Holden doing from pp. 215–220?
  • What is Holden afraid of here?
  • Who does Holden speak to here and what does he ask of him?
  • Why this person? What does he symbolize here?
  • Is this fear or anxiety? Why?
  • What are Holden’s dreams? Are they attainable?
  • On p. 219, where does Holden decide to go and why?
  • Explain the note on p. 220.

Chapter 26 Questions: 

  • In the first paragraph, we get some implicit information about what happens to Holden. What are those clues?
  • What kind of a place is Holden in and how do you know?
  • How does Holden feel about everything that has happened?
  • Reread the last two lines: What does Holden mean here? Do you agree? Why or why not?
  • Is Holden more or less isolated and lonely at the end of the novel than at the beginning? How do you know?

Notes


  • The excerpt read for homework includes the excerpt on the exam, so you do not need to review it in too much depth, but you can check student notes or guiding sheet.
  • Students should finish the novel today and discuss the Target Task question. 

Next

Lesson 26
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