The Catcher in the Rye (2021)

Lesson 7
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ELA

Unit 11

10th Grade

Lesson 7 of 26

Objective


Analyze Holden’s true character based on his relationship with Jane, his treatment of Ackley, and his revelation of Allie’s death.

Infer the effect Allie’s death has had on Holden.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger  — Chapters 4-5

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Target Task


Writing Prompt

How does Salinger further characterize Holden through chapters 4 and 5? Use evidence to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • Holden’s actions at the beginning of chapter 4 may indicate what about his state of mind?
  • What favor does Stradlater ask of Holden? Why do you think he does this? 
  • Why is Stradlater’s favor IRONIC?
  • What does Holden mean when he says, “I’m an exhibitionist”? 
  • Who is Jane Gallagher and why is she important in this chapter? Be specific.
  • How do you think Holden feels about Jane? Why?
  • How does Holden feel when Ackley comes back in? Why? 
  • Why do you think Holden wears the hunting cap when he writes the essay?
  • Who is Allie? How does Holden view him?
  • What detail from Holden’s past is revealed?
  • What does the baseball mitt mean to Holden?
  • What character trait of Holden’s does the final paragraph of chapter 5 reinforce?

Notes


  • Students should come in with chapter 4 read. Chapter 5 will build on similar ideas read in chapter 4. 
  • Chapters 4 and 5 are significant because Holden’s compassionate side is revealed. Jane and Allie are the only two characters of whom he only speaks positively throughout the book. Both are people he has lost in his life: Jane moving on and Allie dying. Students should put together the pieces that much of Holden is a façade for coping with his grief of Allie’s death. The Target Task can be a discussion or short response.
  • Assign Chapter 6 for homework.

Next

Identify signs of Holden’s upcoming breakdown and explain how this contributes to the novel’s overall plot.

Lesson 8
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