Of Mice and Men: Chapter 5

These two lessons explores Chapter 5 of John Steinbeck’s ‘Of Mice and Men’.

After reflecting on the role of women during the Great Depression, students are encouraged to think about Curley’s wife, considering her dual role as a both a ‘femme fatale’ and a vulnerable victim. We look closely at her shattered Hollywood dreams and the intimate connection she forms momentarily with Lennie. Curley’s wife’s death is considered in detail, with pupils reflecting on the tragedy of this moment and its implications for other characters. Key vocabulary for describing Curley’s wife with precision and sophistication is explored before students are given an analytical writing task. A detailed model paragraph is shown as an exemplar.

The key themes of dreams and hope are considered alongside this fatal turning point in George and Lennie’s dream. We also consider how Candy is presented in this moment - his final appearance in the novella - and wonder how the ‘hunt’ for Lennie will unfold. A non-fiction creative task is included for students at the end of the lesson.

The first lesson is 17 slides; the second lesson is 12 slides.

Questions, discussion points, and tasks are included for students. A copy of the extract is also included.

Page numbers (included in the lesson titles and in quotations) are in reference to the Penguin Modern Classics edition (light blue spine).

Ideal for upper-KS3 or GCSE students.

PowerPoints are saved as PDFs.