Things That Make Me Go, "Hmmm...." Part 1

District 6 - Transportation

As I re-read The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, I find myself wondering about different things. I thought I'd start a weekly series of things that make me go, "Hmmm?" These are thoughts that pop into my head that make me even more excited to see the movie, hoping these questions are answered on the big screen.

Before TheCapitol.pn released the district industries, I always thought District 3 included transportation, along with electronics/technology. Why did I think this? On page 219 in chapter 16 Katniss describes the boy from District 3 being from the place "where they have the factories, where they make televisions and automobiles and explosives." But, as you can see from the poster of District 6, they are responsible for transportation.

Is it possible that District 3--technology--still makes the automobiles, while District 6 is just responsible for the actual physical transportation of Capitol officials, tributes, and victors? What do you think?

I think that District 6 must just be the transporters. Based on their occupations (also released by TheCapitol.pn), it seems their job is just getting people around, not making the vehicles.

And one more thing that makes me wonder...are those hovercrafts in the District 6 sky (see close-up of image below)? They somehow don't look like the image I had of a hovercraft. I always pictured one looking more like a flying saucer. These look a little like flying motorcycles. Although, I do find them fascinating. (I have so many more things that make me go, "Hmmm..."  about these hovercrafts!)

So, do you have something that makes you wonder as you read The Hunger Games? If so, comment below. Perhaps we can figure it out, or maybe it is something that we'll just have to wait and see.

Detail of District 6 poster. Are those hovercrafts in the sky?

District 3-Technology

Images are from TheCapitol.pn's Facebook Fan Pages and courtesy of Lionsgate®. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is published by Scholastic Inc. and quoted from the U.S. paperback version.

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm... The Feast Backpacks

This post does contain spoilers to the later chapters of the novel, so please wait to read if you haven't finished through chapter 25.

For the second installment of "Things that make me go hmmm..." I wanted to bring up the feast at the Cornucopia in chapter 21 of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

In that chapter, Katniss goes to the feast to get the small pack that contains the life-saving medicine for Peeta. She sees the two large black packs, medium-sized green pack, and the one meant for her. We later learn in chapter 25 that the District 2 pack probably contained body armor to protect from Katniss' arrows (and other weapons). Although, since Thresh took both packs, it could have been in either one. And we already know what was inside the tiny District 12 pack. So, what did Foxface's (District 5) and Thresh's (District 11) contain?

We know that Thresh's was a large one just like the District 2's. Did it also contain body armor to protect Thresh from Cato and Clove's knives and swords (Clove was still alive when the packs appeared near the Cornucopia)? He didn't need food (Katniss remarks he looked better fed than when the Games started) and he wasn't injured.

Katniss also comments that perhaps one of the tributes needs a blanket. Did Thresh's contain a blanket, or was that what Foxface's contained? When Foxface dies, her body was so thin, so that could be an indication that she didn't get food in her pack. But, it also indicates that it might be the one thing she needed the most. But if it was, then why was she stealing food from Peeta? 

We never learn what those two packs contained, so I asked my students what they thought. There's no wrong answers, of course. (Unless we find out in the movie what they contain, but that's not until March.) So here are some of their replies:

Thresh's District 11 Pack: battle armor just like Cato's, a weapon to protect himself from Cato, food, a battle ax, vanishing cream so no one could find him (it obviously didn't work), something to keep him warm, a tent, more rocks (his favorite weapon), a weapon and armor (because he killed Clove with a rock, he obviously didn't have one or get one at the Cornucopia), and my favorite answer: his pack had the armor and Cato's had food because he and Clove probably didn't know how to feed themselves (then Cato stole the pack of armor after he killed Thresh).

Foxface's District 5 Pack: a new pair of light sneakers so she can continue to sneak around unheard, sleeping bag to keep warm, a weapon to defend herself, night-vision glasses so she could steal food at night, "slippers of silence," food, and my favorite answer: a heat-reflecting sleeping bag and warm gloves and hat to keep from dying from hypothermia.

So what do YOU think was in the other packs at the feast? 

Take it one step further: why do you think the two larger packs are black, the medium green, and the smallest orange? Is there any significance to the colors of the packs? Why not have them all the same color since they are already labeled with their district numbers? Certainly the Capitol would be able to find packs all the same color, right? What do you think?

 

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm... The "What Ifs"

What if the symbol of the rebellion was an Angry Bird instead of the Mockingjay? 

Yes, this is a silly question, but sometimes those silly questions lead to deep and meaningful debates. I like to ask "What if" questions during class discussions to get my students' creative juices flowing (and engage in some critical thinking, but they don't need to know that's what they're doing).

So for this third installment of "Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...," I've decided to share some of the "what ifs" we discussed in class recently about The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and see if they have you Hmmm?ing, as well. Feel free to share these with your students for discussions or as journal prompts (warning - some spoilers ahead):

• What if Katniss's dad hadn't died? How would Katniss be different? Would she still be as protective of Prim?

•  What if Katniss's mother hadn't become depressed and was able to take care of her family? Would Peeta have found another way to connect with Katniss (since the bread incident would never have happened)?

• What if Katniss didn't volunteer for Prim? Or if Prim refused to let her volunteer? Would Prim be strong enough to survive the Games? Who would her allies be? Would Peeta die for her?

• What if Gale was chosen as the male tribute instead of Peeta? 

• What if Haymitch didn't drink? Would he have a different strategy for Katniss and Peeta? Would they have more sponsors?

• What if Effie wasn't so annoying? What if she was more like Cinna?

• What if they had to walk to the Capitol? How long would it take to get from the Appalachian Mountains to the Rockies? (Forrest Gump might know...)

• What if Cinna wasn't Katniss's stylist? What would her slogan be?

• What if Madge gave Katniss an Angry Bird pin instead of a Mockingjay pin? Would Rue still want to be Katniss's ally?

• What if District 13 wasn't blown off the map by the Capitol but abducted by aliens instead? What if it was just a massive government cover-up? Would life be better for the District 13 citizens in space or on another planet?  

• What if the citizens of District 12 gave Katniss chocolate cookies instead of the silent salute? (That's from my student Brody.)

• What if Katniss had full water bottles in her orange backpack? Would she have played the Game more offensively?

• What if Rue hadn’t warned Katniss about the tracker jacker nest? What would have happened that morning?

• What if Katniss had given Rue her knife when they split up? Would she have been able to cut herself out of the net and get away from Marvel?

• What if Rue lived and they announced that two tributes could win if they were from the same district; would Rue and Katniss break their alliance? Would Katniss still seek out Peeta? Would the four of them take on the Careers and Foxface? 

• What if the final three tributes alive were Katniss, Peeta, and Rue? Would any of them be able to kill each other? (This question courtesy of The Hunger Games Fireside Chat.)

• What if the arena really was a big cake with frosting?

You can have your students come up with their own "What if..." questions. Have them write them down on a little square of scratch paper and put them in a bowl (or old coffee grounds container; old OxyClean containers also work well) and have other students draw a question from the container to discuss or write about.

And to make your job easier, I've already copied these down (with additional questions) and placed them in a table that can be copied and cut into squares for students to draw. And there's some blank ones so they can make up their own "What if..." questions. Enjoy!

Download here: Hunger Games "What If..." Questions

Hunger Games Lessons is not affiliated or associated with author Suzanne Collins, Scholastic Books/Scholastic, Inc., The Hunger Games trilogy, Lionsgate® Movies, Angry Birds, or any of the aforementioned’s affiliates.

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...An Early Holiday Gift From Taylor Swift...

Taylor Swift released "Safe and Sound" last night, a single from "The Hunger Games" movie official soundtrack. For this week's "Things That Make Me Go Hmmm..." I'd like to ponder which scene the song may be paired with. (As always, there are spoilers for those who have not read the novel.)

Down With the Capitol posted the song and the lyrics and asked fans which part of the movie/novel they think it goes with. Fans seem to be torn between the "cave" scene where Katniss drugs Peeta before going to the feast and the scene from chapter 18 with Rue (or after...). At least one fan said it reminded them of Katniss saying goodbye to Prim.

I am partial to the scene with Rue because of the lullaby reference and the title itself. Rue asks Katniss to stay with her when she says "Don't go" on page 234 in The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Then when Rue asks Katniss to sing, she thinks of the "mountain air" lullaby, or meadow song. "Safe and Sound" by Swift seems to mirror the lyrics in the meadow song, telling listeners that tomorrow will be a better day, tomorrow will bring hope and peace.
From the meadow song (or Rue's Lullaby):
"Here it's safe, here it's warm
Here the daisies guard you from every harm
Here your dreams are sweet and tomorrow brings them true
Here is the place where I love you." (p. 235)
and from Swift's song, via Theresa at Down With the Capitol:
"Just close your eyes
sun is going down
You’ll be all right
no one can hurt you now
Come morning light
you and I will be safe and sound."

On page 238 Katniss hears a young mockingjay sing Rue's four-note call, "The ones that mean she's safe."
"'Good and safe,' I say...'We don't have to worry about her now.' Good and safe." (p. 238)
I can see this song being played as Katniss walks away from Rue, thinking that now she will be "Good and safe."

Though, I can also see this applying to the cave scene from chapter 21, as well. These lyrics seem to apply to Peeta when he is dying in the cave and Katniss makes the decision to go to the feast to get the life-saving medicine for him:
"Don’t you dare look out your window
Darlin' everything’s on fire
the war outside our door keeps raging on
Hold on to this lullaby
Even when the music's gone
Gone
Just close your eyes
The sun is going down
You’ll be all right
No one can hurt you now
Come morning light
You and I’ll be safe and sound."

So, here's what I think. I think they'll play some of the song (at least the beginning) after Rue's death. Then I think they'll start the second half of the song just as Katniss is giving Peeta the sleep syrup and continue it through the night as she gets ready for (and is on her way to) the feast. Those alone moments will need music playing in the background and this song seems to fit both scenes. I can see how it applies to Prim, as well. For that matter, it could also play during the re-cap of the Games and the train ride home. Perhaps the song will carry out in several scenes. I think it's a testament to the powerful writing of Suzanne Collins, showing how the theme of hope carries through the entire book. Katniss may seem to lose hope many times, but it's always there: sacrificing herself to give Prim hope for a better life; sharing herself with Rue and giving Rue hope with the lullaby; risking her life to save Peeta, giving him hope. Her intent may not have always seemed sacrificial, but her actions spoke loudly. I love the fact that the songwriters picked up on this theme, even though the song is seemingly so sad (and I know I will cry no matter which part of the movie it is played).

I found the emotion very raw and gripping in the song. I'm not a country music fan, never heard of The Civil Wars, and didn't care all that much for Swift's past music. But I do think this is a fitting piece and it seems to go with the rustic district feel that is portrayed in the trailer. Listening to this, hearing Swift's voice...yes, I just may have to check out what else she has (and even The Civil Wars has) to offer.


What do you think? Which part does it seem to fit the best for you? Share in the comments below!
Listen here: Taylor Swift's "Safe and Sound"

CLASSROOM CONNECTION:
Teachers - have your students analyze the lyrics to the song and decide which part (or parts) of the novel would be most fitting. Then have a classroom debate. Students could work in groups or alone. Allow them to listen to the song, as well. The music itself sets the tone for the lyrics and helps students with analysis.

If Panem Had Elections...Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...

If Panem had elections... from Hunger Games Lessons

Last week's Presidential debate got me thinking about what Panem would be like if they held Presidential elections, and other government-related questions. Of course, this being a "Things that make me go hmmm..." post, it's a great way to get your students thinking critically about the novel and relating it to the real world.

Classroom Connections
You can prompt your students with the following questions that begin with "If Panem had elections...":
• If Panem had elections...
...would President Snow run for re-election? Why or why not?
...who would run against President Snow? Why would this character make a good candidate?
...who would be elected President? Why?

Have them delve even deeper with these questions:
• If Panem was a democracy, how would life be different for the district citizens? How would it be different for the Capitol citizens?
• Would there still be a Hunger Games each year? Why or why not?
• What should the voting age be? Why?
• Would there be age restrictions for those running for President? If so, why and what minimum age would you set? If not, why not?
• Would each district have their own leaders? What would they be called: governors? Mayors? Or something completely new?

If you would like handouts with graphic organizers and a student/group project for your students relating to the elections, I just posted these in my store tonight: Hunger Games Trilogy Presidential Elections Activity Pack 
  It's 14 pages of activities that encourage critical thinking; students will have to support their opinions with facts. It's also aligned with the ELA Common Core State Standards for grades 6-12. Download the free preview for additional information.

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...Am I a Capitol Girl and Is That Bad?

The Capitol.PN's new website: Capitol Couture - for the fashionista in all of us.

  As I write this, Madonna's "Material Girl" is playing in my head.

  ...we are living in a material world, and I am a material girl...
  Yes, I am a "material girl." Or, I was. I did spend my teenage years in the 80s, so big hair, loud clothes, gaudy jewelry: all of these things defined me. But somewhere in the 90s, I realized material things really didn't matter as much to me.
  Of course, that's what will happen to you when you are poor.
  We had to give up material things to make sure we could afford the essentials like food and diapers. I'll admit, it was tough being frugal. But eventually, I grew into that person. And even though we both have established careers and make decent livings, I've never desired to go back to my material ways of the 80s...until Effie Trinket and her darned Capitol Couture website came along.
  I've been addicted to it before there was even anything but a login prompt. (You know you have a problem when you spend over an hour guessing passwords for a website that may or may not have anything posted on it.)
  Then, there was just a picture of Effie with the hashtag #lookyourbest. Still, it was mesmerizing. Her hair (so retro with the huge flower), her clothes (like a kimono that got a makeover from the 80s Madonna), her makeup. And now...her shoes.
  As the site went live this week, not only did we get a sneak peek at Effie escorting Katniss and Peeta to their 12th floor quarters in the Training Center, but we also get a peek at the shoes in "The Hunger Games" movie. And they are something else.

Effie's shoes from www.capitolcouture.pn

  But, here is my problem: I love reading Capitol Couture and looking at the amazing pictures. Does this make me as superficial as the Capitol citizens in The Hunger Games? Shouldn't I be shaming those who are so into the Games they don't see how barbaric their actions are? Are we supposed to be feeding into this consumerist behavior, or should we shun it, as Katniss would? Is Lionsgate sitting back and laughing at us, just waiting to tell us we ARE the Capitol? Will there be a message in this in the end? A lesson to be learned?
  Or, is it all about making money? Is this our bread and circus? Are we just as superficial as the Capitol citizens?
  I want to say, "No! Of course I'm not."
  But...I am.
  I've already purchased every edition to the series, including the collector's edition, the box set in hardbacks, the box set in paperbacks, and the newest: the movie tie-in edition; plus, I have every future edition of every book related to The Hunger Games on my Amazon and Scholastic pre-orders. I have the limited edition character posters. And I am contemplating buying the action figures, but at $17.99 a pop (with 27 to collect), it's a little hard to swallow. But I want them.
  I want all of it. I am a Capitol girl.
  So what does this say about me? Have I learned nothing from Katniss? Shouldn't I spend this money instead on helping those in need rather than feeding my material wants? Does it help that I share my posters and books with my students, so they can enjoy reading and looking at them?
  To try to offset my desire for the couture, I've decided that for every dollar I spend on "Capitol" goods, I'm going to donate a dollar (or more) to a charitable cause. I tend to favor those that my friend Shylah supports on her Literacy Revolution page, so here's a link to all the teachers/schools who are in need of classroom sets of The Hunger Games on DonorsChoose.org: The Hunger Games Classroom Projects Every time I purchase, pre-order, or receive an item I had previously pre-ordered, I'm heading to this link and randomly choosing a classroom in which to donate.
  What do you think? 
  Are you a material girl or guy? How do you feel about the Capitol Couture website? If you, too, have "Capitol" desires, will you help me in this cause to give to others?

Which Poems Would Katniss and Peeta Carry for Poem in Your Pocket Day?

A "Things That Make Me Go Hmmm..." Post

Update: National Poem in Your Pocket Day is April 18th for 2013. This original post was written in 2012.

April 26th is National Poem in Your Pocket Day. To celebrate poetry and spread literacy, every one is encouraged to carry their favorite poem with them tomorrow. So, of course, this got me to thinking...which poems would the characters of The Hunger Games carry?

I've decided that Peeta would carry one of my favorite ee cummings poems: [i carry your heart with me(i carry it in]
To me it fits him (and his feelings for Katniss) perfectly. He would do anything for her and even professes in Catching Fire that his nightmares are about losing her. I think you can look at the line "here is the deepest secret nobody knows" two different ways: that the secret is that the speaker carries the heart in his heart or that the secret is something that keeps them apart. Either translation works for Peeta: his love is a secret until revealed. And there are a number of things throughout the trilogy that keeps them apart, making the second translation of that line work.

What do you think about this poem for Peeta?

[i carry your heart with me(i carry it in]
By E. E. Cummings

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
                                                 i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

Poem source: Poetry Foundation http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/179622

Now on to Katniss...she is much harder to pinpoint. She has such a defensive nature and does not like to express her emotions. She feels bitter toward her mother and misses her father profusely. She's not the sappy type, so I chose a very somber poem titled "Eulogy" by Kevin Young. Why this poem? First, it reminded me of [spoiler alert!] Katniss in her old training room in Mockingjay while her trial is going on. I think she would express these words after she kills herself by starvation. And yet, she fails to allow the darkness to swallow her. She turns inward, just like her mother as we learned in the beginning of The Hunger Games, and the circle has come full. Just as the circle of life closes around us all.

I think "Eulogy" is perfect in its seeming simplicity (I love shorter poems that have these hidden layers of complexity). I could imagine Katniss not wanting people to mourn too long over her death. And I thought literally of the lightness of her casket--in her emaciated state. But, there's so much more than literal translation in those lines. Has the weight of the nation been lifted finally? Is that why she wouldn't want them to startle? OK...I know I'm getting too deep here because obviously Mr. Young did not write this about Katniss. But this is what I love about poetry: we can all find connections to these beautiful words. And at different points in our lives, we'll find different meanings, even in our old favorites.

Eulogy
by Kevin Young
To allow silence To admit it in us always moving Just past senses, the darkness What swallows us and we live amongst What lives amongst us * These grim anchors That brief sanctity the sea Cast quite far when you seek —in your hats black and kerchiefs— to bury me * Do not weep but once, and a long time then Thereafter eat till your stomach spills over No more! you'll cry too full for your eyes to leak * The words will wait * Place me in a plain pine box I have been for years building It is splinters not silver It is filled of hair * Even the tongues of bells shall still * You who will bear my body along Spirit me into the six Do not startle at its lack of weight How light

Poem source: Poets.org http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/22169
Kevin Young's official website:  http://www.kevinyoungpoetry.com/

CLASSROOM CONNECTION

Have your students discuss which poems they think the characters would carry in their pocket and why. This can be done for any piece of literature.

Why is this a great activity? First, they have to read a lot of poems. Second, they have to be familiar with the literature to make a connection. Third, it allows them to be creative. And fourth, there are no wrong answers.

Enjoy Poem in Your Pocket Day; and enjoy poetry EVERY DAY! :)

Is the Message of "The Hunger Games" Lost on Those Who Haven't Read the Book?

A "Things That Make Me Go Hmmm..." Post

We all know that the novels versions are almost always better than their movie counterparts. And we all know that there are going to be people who won't read the book, opting for the movie versions instead. That, probably, will never change.

What bothers me, though, is when the book's message is lost or doesn't translate to the audience in the movie version. It ultimately tarnishes the reputation of the book.


Recently on my Facebook page one of my friends had this question from a family member and was looking for advice on how to respond:

"So...if the statement of the Hunger Games is all about the how low will we go, like low enough to kids hunt and kill each other, cheering for our favorite, then what does it say about us watching a movie with kids hunting and killing kids, while cheering for our favorite?"

It saddened me because I really think the message is clear in the book that violence–and the glorification of it–is wrong. Katniss is sickened by it. The reader is sickened by it. Katniss doesn't want to kill or see anyone die. And the reader doesn't want anyone to die. There is no cheering or fanfare for the Games.

I thought the movie did a good job of translating that message, though there were a few moments that disappointed me in the end [a couple of my complaints here]. And, yet, the first time I saw the movie on opening night, there were people cheering in the theater. Those of us witnessing this looked at them in disbelief and a few shushed them. I can only surmise that they had not read the book.

I am reminded of the movie "Schindler's List," in which terrible acts of violence are portrayed onscreen. I saw it in the theater when it was first released and can attest to the fact that no one was cheering during those scenes. Same for movies like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Full Metal Jacket." Is it because these movies are based on real events? Have we disconnected ourselves from fictional experiences in such a way that we don't see the characters are real humans being killed? Real humans who are forced to do the killing? Are we so dense that we cannot see that even fictional portrayals hold truths?

Yet, looking at movies that are based on true events, I'm reminded that in that present, we, as a society, were cheering. Even though the war poets of the early twentieth century reminded us not to cheer, there were just as many poets, reporters, and politicians who did the opposite, encouraging the public that it was our patriotic duty to applaud the killing of others. They may not have been so blunt, but ultimately, wasn't that the message?

One argument for the fanfare is that we were the good guys, destroying the evil in the world. Shouldn't we rejoice when we triumph over evil? It's a good point, and I think it's hard to argue against the fact that Hitler was a madman who needed to be removed from power. Does it justify acts of evil in the name of war? Is it okay to kill civilians for a greater good? What about the innocent citizens who lost their lives because they were defending their families, their homes? Does it justify the need to drop atomic bombs on not just one city, but two, taking thousands of innocent lives and probably affecting thousands more years later due to radiation exposure?

We issue service awards and mark the number of raids or bombings performed. Is there an award for turning around and deciding not to attack a village or deciding not to blow up an elementary school? Aren't these are the heroic acts we need to applaud instead?

The anti-war movement of the 60s and 70s seemed to be a turning point for our society, insisting that we cannot continue to cheer for war. It's not a problem-solving method we should encourage and applaud. And for the first time, I think people began to see that the clear-cut line between good vs. evil was blurred. Instead of radio reports that were censored for the public, people began to see the real images of war on TV and in the newspapers. And it looked more like varying degrees of evil battling one another.

"The Hunger Games" exposes the eventual truth of war: there are no "good" guys, no "teams" to cheer for. We are all guilty when we cheer for the death of another. When Katniss tells Peeta she doesn't want anyone to die, she just wants to go home, we feel her pain. We can relate to it because those who serve or those who have children serving in the military probably feel the same way: they don't want to kill (or have their child kill) others. They just want it to end. To come home, safely.

I think the "Catching Fire" and "Mockingjay" movies will need to show this message loud and clear. They need to show Katniss' journey from being a survivor, a soldier, then placed on a pedestal as a symbol for rebellion, used as a pawn by both her enemies and her friends, then–most importantly–her realization that they are all, herself included, the "bad" guys.

But this is treading in difficult waters: how do you tell this message without insulting those who serve our country? Will they be offended by the message that they are "pawns" used by our leaders to advance their own agendas? And how do you tell this message without appearing unpatriotic? Katniss loved the people of Panem; she saw good even in the citizens of the Capitol. Denouncing both sides did not make her unpatriotic. It made her human. Expressing this message does not make us love our country less; it shows just how much we love what is best about it: the people.

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...What's With All the Numbers in Mockingjay?

Warning: This post will have spoilers.
Today is Friday the 13th--a day that so many associate with bad luck or a hockey-masked killer. But it got me to thinking about the use of numbers in Suzanne Collins's novel Mockingjay.

As an English teacher, I like to believe that authors write with purpose. I mean, it is our job to teach students to find meaning. And, yes, I am sure there are times we go a little overboard.

But I was immediately blown away by the mention of all the numbers in Mockingjay when I first read it. Then, when I started to do a little research, I was amazed at some of the connections I came across.  

The first number that stood out to me was Katniss's compartment assignment in district 13: 307. It seemed odd that the number was mentioned. At first I just assumed because district 13 was so structured, it would make sense to have room numbers, like a hotel. But why "307"? I typed in "Room 307" in a Google search just to see what might pop up, and came across this: http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/wwIIbayarea/307.HTM

What's so special about this Gilman Hall? According to the site, it is where scientists identified plutonium in 1941. In 1942, the room was “fenced off” and utilized for nuclear chemistry study as part of the war effort. The room was also part of the “Manhattan Project,” which developed the first atomic bomb.

This is the point where I had one of those English-teacher moments and thought surely this can't be coincidental, can it? The significance of Katniss being the symbol for the rebellion is assigned to a room whose number is symbolic for its contribution to nuclear warfare. This had to be intentional, right? Then there's the irony that it was bombs that destroyed her home district and here she is in a room that symbolizes the invention of a nuclear bomb meant to destroy a city. What did this all mean? Is this foreshadowing?

Of course, my excitement grew with this finding, so I paid close attention to all the numbers I came across in Mockingjay. I figured if Suzanne Collins was going to number all the rooms and compartments, she probably did so with intent and purpose, and of course symbolism. (I can't help it, people! I'm an English teacher. I live for this stuff.)

One of the most obvious of the symbolic numbers was for the Star Squad 451. Immediately I thought of the Ray Bradbury novel Fahrenheit 451. Both novels are set in a dystopian future and Katniss has many qualities similar to Bradbury's protagonist Guy Montag (which I'm not going to list here so my students--and perhaps yours--will look to the books for answers).


Other numbers mentioned in Mockinjay included:
Room (or Compartment) 3908 - the room Katniss's prep team was held hostage
Compartment E - the compartment Katniss, her mother, and Prim were assigned in the district 13 bunker
Space 47 - Gale's assignment in the bunker
Room 2212 - The next room assignment for Katniss, her mother, and Prim

Have your students research these numbers, looking at what they may symbolize in science or history. Have them try to make connections to the novel. Sure, some of it may be a stretch, and perhaps it is all accidental. But I still find it to be a fun activity and a great way to make connections with other content areas.

Teaching Materials:
If you would like a formal handout and teacher's guide for this, I do have a packet of supplemental activities for Mockingjay. These are included in the Mockingjay novel unit in digital download and on CD; it is also found in the trilogy 3-pack unit.

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm... Is the Absence of Madge That Big of a Deal?

 

 

  I've known for a while that the character Madge Undersee hadn't made the cut for "The Hunger Games" movie, thanks to my friends Savanna and Adam who pointed it out on an episode of The Hunger Games Fireside Chat.  

(Warning: Spoilers ahead) 

  Madge's character is the one who originally gives Katniss her mockingjay pin. Later, in Catching Fire, we learn that the pin belonged to her aunt Maysilee who died in the 50th Games. Maysilee was Haymitch's ally and the guilt of her death most likely continued to haunt Haymitch, as well as drive Madge's mother's--Maysilee's twin sister--addiction to morphling. Katniss realizes the symbolic significance of the pin doesn't lie just within herself; it is embedded deeply into the hearts of the people of district 12 and throughout all the districts, representing all those who have lost their lives in the Games, like Maysilee. Like Rue. And represents all those whose lives will never be the same, like Haymitch and Madge's mother.
  Katniss carries the weight of this responsibility into the arena with her in Catching Fire and knows what she must do with it: sacrifice her life for Peeta, the true mockingjay and voice of the rebellion. (Of course, things don't always work as planned.)

The Mockingjay Pin. From Lionsgate, photo courtesy of Celebuzz

  But seeing the "new" mockingjay pin story in the most recent movie trailer makes me wonder how this will play out, not necessarily in "The Hunger Games" movie, but in "Catching Fire." Will the pin have that same significance? Will its former owner be Maysilee? Will Katniss finally understand Haymitch and how hard it must have been for him to even look at her wearing that pin in the 74th Games? Katniss learns a lot about Haymitch and comes to understand why he is the way he is after watching his Games and his interaction with Maysilee. She also learns a lot about her mother, who was good friends with Maysilee. For Katniss, the pin is the bridge to understanding depression and how people cope with loss. Will this theme even translate to the big screen without Madge and the Maysilee back story? And does it need to?
  Books can have multiple themes and story lines, but having too many in a movie is often confusing. There's not enough time to do it justice. Perhaps this is why the books are always better than the movie: they go much deeper than just surface themes. The pin represents so many different things in The Hunger Games: Katniss's father, Rue and her love of music, the mockingjay itself: a species that was never meant to exist (a slap in the face to the Capitol), death, rebellion, loss of a loved one, hope, and on and on. Can we honestly expect a movie to be able to delve that deeply into all those themes? Granted, many of them are not explored until the final two books, but it is still asking a lot for a two-hour movie to cover.
  So, I think I've come to terms with Madge's absence in "The Hunger Games" movie. I just wonder how the story will be told in the movie for "Catching Fire."
  What are your thoughts? Leave a comment or link to your post below.

More Violence in Coming Attractions Than in The Hunger Games...a "Things That Make Me Go Hmmm" post

Warning: This post does contain spoilers.

As we waited to see the movie "The Hunger Games" (my second viewing), we were entertained with the customary coming attractions: new movie trailers to temp us back into the theater to see similar shows.

Of those attractions, three stood out: "Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter," "G.I. Joe Retaliation," and "Dark Shadows." Not because I particulary enjoyed them. I wouldn't pay money to go see any of those. What struck me was the amount of violent acts shown in just the trailers. (In all fairness, "Dark Shadows" had the least, but the sexual references made up for the lack of them.)

I'm a mom of a 13-year-old boy who went through the Buzz Lightyear, Spiderman, Hulk, Star Wars, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles phases. We had the themed birthday parties, Halloween costumes, and VHS cassettes of the movies and cartoons. I am well aware of the violence shown in those movies and TV shows and had an open dialogue about it with my son while he was growing up. I would say something like, "You know, there's a much better way to solve problems than using violence." Said often enough and modeling it in real life, he got it.

Of course, it didn't stop him from role-playing that he was Spiderman, jumping from building to building and "shooting" the bad guys with his invisible web. When he pointed his "web" fingers at me one time when he was mad, I took away all his toys and grounded him from watching TV. It didn't take him long to realize that there's a difference between "pretend" play and real-life violent gestures.

I am a pacifist. I don't believe in using violence to problem-solve. However, I also understand human nature and the need to use violence for survival. For example, hunting and fishing for food is necessary. And if someone is attacked, obviously self-defense warrants the need to use force for protection.

Playing defense is one thing; it's playing offense--and the reasoning behind it--that I usually question.

That said, I sat there in the theater and wondered why so many people are voicing their concern about the violence in "The Hunger Games" movie, when the message of the book (and movie) is an opposition to violence? There is no glory in the Games. When they are through, you are not cheering for the Victors, you are sobbing for those who died. And for those who had to kill because they will never forget the acts of evil they were forced to commit. The characters are broken, depressed. There is no fanfare except that which is forced upon the Victors and citizens (by the Capitol/President Snow) in the Victory Tour.

Yet, these other movies encourage you to applaud and cheer when they blow up the enemies. That is the wrong message. I didn't hear any outrage or opposition when the "Spiderman," "Batman," "G.I. Joe," "Incredible Hulk," or "Transformers" movies came out. Did you? Were these same people up in arms over those movies that glorify violence?

While watching these coming attractions, I noticed there were more acts of violence in just the trailer from "G.I. Joe" than in the ENTIRE movie "The Hunger Games." Heck, probably more than in the entire book The Hunger Games. And what, exactly, is G.I. Joe's message? Is it one of wanting peace through non-violence? I'm pretty sure it's not.

And yet, that is the message of Suzanne Collins' trilogy.

Katniss chooses NOT to kill Peeta in the end. Peeta chooses NOT to kill Katniss. Both characters chose to act with humanity toward their fellow tributes. Both take a stand against the Capitol, sending the message that this--the Hunger Games--is wrong. Katniss and Peeta are the true role models here.

What do you think?

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To read more about my thoughts on the PG-13 rating and message of The Hunger Games, see these posts:
Defense for Teaching The Hunger Games
Connecting The Hunger Games to The Holocaust
Why is the Rating of "The Hunger Games" Movie Questionable?
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Photo sources:

"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" image courtesy of IGN: Image 3574963

media.movies.ign.com

"G.I. Joe Retaliation" image courtesy of bigshinyrobot.com

 http://www.bigshinyrobot.com/reviews/archives/36565

"Dark Shadows" image courtesy of teenspot.com

Things That Make Me Go Hmmm... Is Hunger Still a Factor After Mockingjay?

From Time.com's photo essay, "What the World Eats, Part 1", a German family spends $500 per week on food.

 One of the first lessons I wrote for The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins was a comparison between what the district citizens ate to the diets of the Capitol citizens in Panem. It's called "What They Ate" and can be found {HERE} for a free download.

When I came across a photo essay called "What the World Eats" posted on Time.com with images from the 2007 book Hungry Planet: What the World Eats by Peter Menzel and Faith D'Aluisio, it helped me further make the connection between our world and Katniss's world in Panem. Yes, I know that we live in a world of excess while there are people starving to death every day. But seeing the images of the families from around the world with their week's worth of groceries sends the message loud and clear. It shows the viewer just how excessive some families are and what little we could actually survive on. 

Additionally, the viewer can see how many of the foods have added chemicals for preservation. And on the flip side, how much is grown and harvested by the family or a local farmer?

The viewer also sees the amount of consumer waste each family will produce by eating the prepackaged foods. How much will have to be thrown away? How much of the waste can be recycled? How much is actually organic and can be used as compost?

But probably the most lasting impression I see in the images is this: the smiles and happiness on the faces of those with so little and the frowns on the faces of those with so much. Judging by their surroundings, you would think those with so little would be miserable. But they aren't. Or, they don't look as if they are. What does this tell us about our world? 

Which, of course, leads me back to Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. (Spoiler alert!) After the war, what happens to the citizens of Panem? We know that Plutarch's plan was to form a republic where the citizens can elect representatives (p. 83-84, Mockingjay) and that Paylor was elected shortly after Katniss killed President Coin (p. 378). But what we don't know is what kind of economic system is in place at the end of the trilogy. Is it a capitalist or socialist society? Are people left to fend for themselves, or is aid provided by the government? 

A family from Ecuador who spends just $31.55 each week on food.

What happened to the Capitol citizens? As Plutarch had explained in Mockingjay, many citizens were heavily in debt and signed on to be Peacekeepers to have their debts erased (p. 83). Do they now take on jobs in construction, helping rebuild their city? Will someone like Tigris find work? Will people still purchase the outlandish furs and other fashion statements they once wore in the Capitol? Or will old habits return, and the Capitol citizens go back to their lives of excessive food, parties, and consumer waste? 

What I wonder the most, though, is whether the citizens will realize what it is like to be truly hungry, and if that will be enough to make a real change in their world? But I look at our world and see how easily we forget our past. And our present. How long does it take people to block out the images of the starving children we see on TV and go back to our three-course meals? Probably as long as it took Haymitch to find the bottles of liquor on the hovercraft ride home (p. 380).

As we enter the holiday season, think about those who are less fortunate and don't change the channel. Instead, do something. If you don't know how to help, why not find out if there are food drives in your community that you can donate to; if not, start a food drive at your school for a local food pantry; or volunteer at the food pantry or a homeless shelter. When you help others and see first-hand how others suffer, it is hard to ignore. 

Classroom Connection: 
1. When you are teaching The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, or Mockingjay, take a class period to talk to students about world hunger, and hunger in your own community. Use the "What They Ate" handout as a starting point.

2. Show the "What the World Eats" slideshow from Time.com and discuss the images. Ask students what is most surprising or shocking about each family. Ask them what their family image would look like. They can also find out how much their family spends each week for consumables, as well as how much waste they produce.

3. If your class participates in a class Games competition, have students bring in non-perishables to sponsor a tribute. The tribute with the most food items wins the Games. Then have the class deliver the food to a pantry or shelter.

In Chad, this family eats for just $1.23 per week.

All images are from Time.com.

What Summer Brings in Panem {Things That Make Me Go Hmmm}

While students (and teachers) celebrate the beginning of summer vacation in North America, I wondered if children in Panem ever get to celebrate the same freedom from a break in the school year? I couldn't quite recall if Katniss ever mentioned a break in school for anything except Capitol-mandated viewing of Hunger Games-related events, which would be quite unpleasant for most citizens of Panem. In fact, summer doesn't bring the anticipation of sleeping in, lying in the sun daydreaming, or a break from studies for the district children. Summer brings the Hunger Games.

But how do we know the Games are during the summer months? Well, there are a few clues. This is something you can have your students research. Ask them to flip through the book and look for clues that the Games take place during the summer. Context clues will include dates, descriptions about the weather, plants, insects, etc.. We know that the references from District 12 should match those you would find in Appalachia and those in the Capitol should match seasons found in the Rocky Mountains. Of course, when Katniss is in the arena, the location is unknown. But considering this all takes place in North America and the arena is in an area with a lake, forest, and other wildlife, we can be certain that the arena is not located in the southern parts of North America (i.e. Mexico and the southern states). However, the arena's climate can also be controlled by the Gamemakers, as referenced on page 279 of The Hunger Games, "So cold, so bitterly cold tonight. As if the Gamemakers have sent an infusion of frozen air across the arena, which may be exactly what they've done" (Collins). Even so, this cold air is unexpected to Katniss. Students can infer from this passage that it's not winter.

CLASSROOM CONNECTION...
Ask your students to find at least three additional examples that would indicate the Hunger Games takes place during the summer. There are numerous clues, but they should use their books to find the answers (rather than the internet--which is why I am not going to post answers here).

ONLINE EXERCISE...
As an extended internet activity, have your students examine if there is any symbolism present that might connect the Games with the summer months. They should first research what types of symbols are connected to summer and the summer solstice. As they are looking for examples of symbols they should pay attention to anything that would connect to the novel.

WRITE ABOUT IT...
If you are looking for a writing activity for your students for the end of the year, have them reflect on what summer means to them. What do they have planned? How does the time off from school make them feel? Then have them compare their summer to how the tributes must spend theirs. Or a district citizen who must watch a loved one compete in the Games. How would they view summertime then? With excitement or dread?

Mockingjay Part 1 Movie Review & Predictions for Part 2

Here's my non-spoiler immediate review after seeing "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1":

"Incredibly intense, less disappointing, amazing acting (Hoffman+Moore=Wowzers), sadness squared, and Oh. My. Peeta. Stay through the credits. They take forever, but you'll get a tiny reward for sticking around." - Hunger Games Trilogy Teaching Resources (a.k.a. HungerGamesLessons.com via Facebook)

Considering the material the movie makers had to work with (the first half of Suzanne Collins' novel Mockingjay), it was much better than I anticipated. I expected a movie with little action, lots of depressing scenes and crying, a messed-up and drugged-out Katniss Everdeen, a war-mongering Gale, and an evil President Coin. That's not really what we got. 

Warning: The rest of this post contains SPOILERS...

Favorite Scenes

Here were my favorite scenes from the movie, in no particular order:

1. The uprisings in Districts 7 and 5: All I kept thinking about during those scenes was the sacrifice those people were making for their cause. Those on the "front lines" who willingly acted as human shields for the others who held the precious explosives. Very powerful, very moving. I also appreciated seeing things outside of Katniss' narrow lens in the novels.

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

2. The Hanging Tree song: The song in the novel is so creepy and haunting. I never could figure out the melody of the tune. The way Jennifer Lawrence sings it is perfectly haunting, creepy in a cool way. It becomes the song of the revolution, inspiring the District 5 citizens to bomb the dam, allowing the rebels to take advantage of the loss of power in the Capitol.

Listen to Jennifer Lawrence sing "The Hanging Tree" song HERE.

3. Katniss' visit to the District 8 hospital: This scene was moving. Yes, I got teary-eyed when the D8 citizens gave Katniss the silent salute.

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

4. Rescuing Peeta, Annie, and Johanna in the Capitol: It was satisfying to see how this actually played out and I really liked the change to Katniss and Finnick's propos. I wondered how they would treat Finnick's confessional with a PG-13 rating. Those who read the book knew what he was saying and those who hadn't may not even realized all that he said since they had the dual screens running. 

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

5. Peeta's attack on Katniss: We knew it was coming, but it was still shocking and heart-breaking to see Peeta in this role. 

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

6. "My sister keeps her cat": OK, so it's not a scene but a quote. Still loved that moment when she requests that Coin allow Prim to keep Buttercup.

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

7. Finnick and Katniss talking in the bunker: Though he doesn't give Katniss some rope, I still enjoyed the moment Finnick tells Katniss he knew she loved Peeta after her reaction when Peeta's heart stopped in the arena. I wrote about that moment being foreshadowed here, and am glad they included it.

Image courtesy of Lions Gate Entertainment®

8. "Always": Another quote, but an additional scene with the old Peeta. It may be a little cheesy but, again, it is foreshadowing how Peeta will be able to reconnect his old memories after being hijacked. 

Top Disappointments

Major spoilers to the book!

A few of my biggest disappointments with the movie, along with questions and ponderings for Mockingjay Part 2:

1. "Evil" President Coin: What happened to the cold-hearted leader from the book? I found myself actually empathizing with President Coin. Why? We need to see her cruelty. I understand having the prep team in the movie may have been much, but at least give the viewer something that indicates this woman is two-faced. Coin was much too nice in the movie. 

2. “Well, don't expect us to be too impressed. We just saw Finnick Odair in his underwear.”: I have to admit, not hearing Boggs say this line and not seeing Finnick run out to the hovercraft, begging to go to District 8 was disappointing. 

3. The ending: Ugh. Why end there? At least give us some sense of hope for Peeta. Yes, we've read the books, so we know there is hope. But now I worry there's just TOO many scenes from the rest of Mockingjay that will be cut because there's no way they can all fit into one 2 ½ hour movie. Obviously I was way off in my prediction here.

4. Katniss talking about the bread: Though I think the way the rescue of Peeta was portrayed was good, I still wish we could hear Katniss talk about the bread–the moment Peeta saved their lives when she was 11. This probably means that part in chapter 16 when Peeta tells Katniss he remembers "about the bread" will be cut from the movie, huh?

5. "I kill Snow": Why was this major plot point left out when Katniss made her demands? Her entire mission is to get to the Capitol to kill the President. It's the only reason she willingly joins the Star Squad and the only reason she hangs on to life in the novel. Why did they decide not to include it? Well, I have no idea if this is why or not, but every time I read the novel with my classes we always ponder why she would want to kill Snow when she knows that person will never leave her. She has terrible nightmares of killing Marvel and sees his face as her arrow strikes. The aftermath of killing haunts a person forever. So why on earth would she ever want Snow to stay with her?
  Because this plot point was not included, how do you think the "plot twist" will happen when she is supposed to assassinate Snow?

Predictions: What will be cut from Mockingjay Part 2?

("Things That Make Me Go Hmmm...")

Because there are so many scenes left in the book, it is realistic to assume quite a bit will be cut. We already know that going to District 2 will be included, so that is not on he list. I've marked those I think will have to be in the movie and those that will probably be cut.

1. Gale and Beetee's death traps: The movie left off at the beginning of chapter 13. Part of the scene, however, isn't in the book (Coin addressing the D13 citizens); the other part of the scene (Katniss watching Peeta through the one-way glass), is in a modified way. But before she watches him, a VERY important part in the book foreshadowed the ending: Gale and Beetee's bomb plans. This is the moment Gale reveals to Katniss the plan to drop small bombs, wait for the medics to go in, then drop larger bombs that kill everyone. I'm pretty sure they'll find a way to get this scene in, right?? How can they not? *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

2. Delly helping Peeta remember scenes: Because Delly Cartwright isn't credited in the movie, it's safe to say those scenes where she tries to help Peeta and defend Katniss will be cut. *PROBABLY WON'T MAKE THE CUT*

3. Finnick & Annie's Wedding: Will it be important enough to be included? Hopefully. Will Peeta do the icing on the cake? Another hopeful moment. Is it a MUST to have in the movie? Yes. We want the audience to be emotionally attached to the two characters. Plus, considering it will be a PG-13 rating, it's a good idea to have them married then Annie be pregnant when Finnick departs for good... *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

4. Katniss and Johanna rooming and training together: The dialogue between these two unlikely friends is golden; it would be a travesty not to include these scenes. Besides, they show just how deeply the trauma of war affects the victims. But...is it essential to the story? Probably not. But it adds that depth I think should be included. And they owe us more Johanna! I really missed her in Part 1. *PROBABLY A MODIFIED VERSION*

5. Star Squad 451 going to the Capitol: Umm...yeah. This should be a given, right? Will ALL of the scenes from their mission through the Capitol be included? Highly unlikely. But it's safe to say that sending Peeta in after Leeg 2 dies, the mine and black slime that kills Boggs and Mitchell, Castor leading them through the sewer tunnels, the golden pod and meat grinder that takes Messalla, Jackson, and Leeg 1, and the half-human half-lizard mutts that kill Finnick, Homes, and Castor will make it into the movie. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

6. Hiding at Tigris': Again, since they have cast her in Mockingjay Part 2, it's safe to say the remaining Star Squad members will hide out in her basement. I do look forward to Gale and Peeta's discussion about Katniss when they think she is sleeping. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

7. President Snow's wall of children protection: Since they are the rebel's target for the first round of parachutes, it's safe to say that this scene, as well as the medics arriving and second round of parachutes dropping will make the cut. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

8. Katniss' physical and mental trauma from the bombing: I don't think everything from chapters 25 and 26 will make it in. A lot of time passes and for most of it, Katniss is mute. Though it will be necessary to show some of the aftermath, I think these scenes will be greatly reduced. *PROBABLY A MODIFIED VERSION*

9. Finding Snow in the rose garden: Katniss needs to hear from Snow that Coin dropped the bombs, killing her sister. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

10. The decision on whether or not to continue the Games with Capitol children: I think this part will be way too confusing to the viewer if they include it and Katniss votes "yes." In the novel, we read her thoughts on how nothing has changed and nothing will change if the Games continue. We know it is a test to see if Coin is as cruel as Snow. But unless she has this conversation with Haymitch beforehand aloud, the movie-goer who has not read the book will be lost. *PROBABLY WON'T MAKE THE CUT*

11. Katniss killing Coin instead of Snow: Essential to the story. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

12. Katniss being imprisoned in the Training Center for months while her trial takes place: This probably won't be as long and drawn out as it seems in the novel, but there will have to be some sort of resolution. *PROBABLY A MODIFIED VERSION*

13. Returning to District 12: Katniss becoming her mother: Will Francis Lawrence portray Katniss as the depressed recluse her mother was when we first started this story? Will Buttercup find his way back to Katniss so they can both grieve together? Will Peeta's gesture of primrose flowers help Katniss start living again? Will the memory book project be shown, including pictures of Annie and Finnick's baby? Will they show Peeta and Katniss as a couple and having kids? I really hope all of these scenes make it in there. *MUST BE IN MOCKINGJAY PART 2*

Which scenes will be ADDED? 

What will they show outside of Katniss's perspective?

1. More Prim: They have to develop her character more, especially as a medic, in order to have the desired impact at the climax.

2. Coin's manipulation: My god, the woman is practically portrayed as a saint in Part 1. We need to see her ruthlessness.

3. Gale's violent tendencies and bomb-making: Gale's gotta turn more bad guy here, too. He wasn't jerky enough in Part 1. Otherwise they're going to have a ton of movie fan girls in an uproar when she ends up with Peeta.

4. Commander Paylor's influence: In the end, Paylor becomes president of Panem through an election. I want to see her more leading the people. In Part 1, she almost acted as a servant for Katniss rather than a Commander of the district. Show us how she wins the people of Panem over. (I am so glad they did not cast a white woman for this role. We need to see more diversity in leadership roles in the movies–and in real life.)

5. Resolve Caesar Flickerman's character status: What happened to Caesar in the end? Suzanne Collins doesn't resolve this for us in the novel, but certainly the movie audience will want to know what Stanley Tucci's character's fate is, right?

I'm sure I've left a lot out. Comment below with your own opinion and suggestions. Did you like the movie? Why or why not?

CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS

Ask your students to list their favorite scenes, biggest let-downs, predictions and additional scenes they anticipate in Mockingjay Part 2. Use my guide and handouts, which is on sale through opening weekend: