Tenth Grade Theme: "Social Justice"

Flowers for Algernon By: Daniel Keyes

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes is a science fiction journal written by Charlie Gordon, a retarded man who becomes a genius after participating in a scientific experiment. The journal reveals Charlie's emotional struggle as his intelligence increases.

I. Before Reading

A. Research the following at the library or on the internet:

1. Hermann Rorschach and ink blot testing.
2. Alfred Binet, Lewis Terman, and David Wechsler and intelligence quotient testing (I.Q. Tests).

B. Reflect on what you know about mental retardation. For example, how are retarded people treated by others in our society? Think of examples either from personal encounters or the media.

II. While Reading

A. Think about how the following characters treat Charlie while he is retarded and as his intelligence increases:

1. His family members
2. His co-workers
3. The scientists
4. Alice Kinnian

B. Think about the parallels between Algernon and Charlie Gordon.

C. Focus on some of the themes in the book (e.g., ridicule, anger, compassion, abuse, etc.) and think of specific examples of each.

III. After Reading

A. Think about the following:

1. Why did the author write this book?
2. Why do you think others should read this book?
3. One of the themes for tenth grade is social injustice. Are there examples of social injustice in this book?