English Final Study Guide

Brown Girl Dreaming

Main Characters:

  • Jacqueline Woodson: Narrator, a Black girl growing up during the Civil Rights era, trying to find her identity.

  • Mama (Mary Ann): Strong mother who moves family to escape racism.

  • Grandma Georgiana: Strict, loving grandmother teaching faith and respect.

  • Grandpa Gunnar: Kind grandfather who supports the family.

  • Dell, Hope & Roman: Jacqueline’s siblings, each with their own challenges.

  • Maria: Jacqueline’s best friend in New York who introduces her to new culture.

Major Conflicts:

  • Internal: Jacqueline struggles with her identity and finding her voice.

  • External: Faces racism, segregation, and constant moves.

Themes:

  • Identity and belonging

  • Racism and inequality

Essential Question:
How can using our voice help bring change?

To Kill a Mockingbird

Main Characters:

  • Scout Finch: Smart, curious girl who learns about justice.

  • Atticus Finch: Lawyer and father who defends a Black man wrongly accused.

  • Jem Finch: Scout’s older brother, learns about courage and fairness.

  • Tom Robinson: Black man falsely accused because of racism.

  • Boo Radley: Mysterious neighbor who turns out kind and protective.

Major Conflicts:

  • Internal: Characters struggle with right and wrong facing prejudice.

  • External: Town’s racism and injustice, especially during Tom Robinson’s trial.

Themes:

  • Racial injustice

  • Courage and doing what is right

Essential Questions:

  • How can a person keep their integrity despite society’s pressure?

  • What helps us learn right from wrong?