This vocabulary lesson plan covers key words from *To Kill a Mockingbird* by Harper Lee. Students define each word, use it in a sentence and create a visual representation.
Subject: English Language Arts · Grade: 8–11 · Time: 30–40 minutes
Key vocabulary
| Word | Definition | Context in novel |
|---|---|---|
| Predilection | A preference or special liking | Scout's predilection for fighting |
| Impugn | To dispute or contradict | Atticus does not impugn Bob Ewell directly |
| Obstreperous | Noisy and difficult to control | Describing the children's behavior |
| Assuaged | Made less intense | Atticus assuaged Jem's distress |
| Countenance | A person's face or expression | Miss Maudie's countenance softened |
| Malignant | Evil in nature or effect | The mob's malignant intent |
| Pernicious | Having a harmful effect | The pernicious influence of prejudice |
| Infallible | Incapable of making mistakes | Jem's infallible faith in justice |
| Tacit | Understood without being stated | The tacit rules of Maycomb society |
| Diffident | Modest or shy | Boo Radley's diffident nature |
Activity: Vocabulary storyboard
- The word and its definition
- A sentence using the word in context from the novel
- An illustration that represents the word's meaning
- Open Storyboard Creator
- Choose 5 vocabulary words from above
- For each word, create a panel with:
- Export PDF or share a live link
Extension activity
Write a paragraph using at least 5 of the vocabulary words correctly. Underline each word used.