Maniac Magee

Think about the prejudices that exist in the West End and East End of Two Mills. What characters participate in the prejudices in their town and why? What characters attempt to overcome the prejudices in the town, and what is the result?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may find it beneficial to analyze assigned portions of the novel in small groups prior to responding. Consider dividing the novel into Magee’s life with the Beales, his life with Grayson, and his life after Grayson as chapter divisions. After each group presents their findings on characters and prejudices, students might compose an individual written response to an extension question such as “Which character experiences the greatest change in their opinions or beliefs in the novel? What evidence supports your choice?”

Differentiation Suggestion: Students who benefit from additional assistance with analysis may find it helpful to analyze one character or a focused list of characters as representative of the attitudes of the East and West Ends. Consider providing students with specific scenarios or characters to analyze along with a graphic organizer or structured note-taking sheet that will guide them to helpful chapters.