1. LO: Can I predict what the novel might be about?
Can I relate the novel to 1930s America?
Look at the covers.
Predict what this novel will be about. Write down 3 statements.
Challenge:
What does the title ‘Of Mice and Men’
Mean?

2. LO: Can I predict what the novel might be about?
Can I relate the novel to 1930s America?
The best laid schemes o' mice an' men
Gang aft a-gley,
An' lea'e us nought but grief an' pain,
For promised joy!
Translation:
The best laid schemes of mice and men often go wrong
And leave us nothing but grief and pain, Instead of promised joy!
This poem was written by Robert Burns. It is written in a Scottish dialect.
It centres around a mouse who builds a den in a field only for it to be destroyed by a farmer. The mouse had dreamed of a safe, warm winter and is now faced with the harsh reality of cold, loneliness and possible death.
Discuss:
Why did Steinbeck use this poem as an influence?
What does the title suggest about American Society?

3. Predict the ending of the novella – will it be positive or negative?
LO: Can I predict what the novel might be about?
Can I relate the novel to 1930s America?
How does the poem relate to what you know about American society?
The best laid schemes o' mice an' men Gang aft a-gley, An' lea'e us nought but grief an' pain, For promised joy!
Have your predictions about the novel changed now that you have read the poem?
Predict the ending of the novella – will it be positive or negative?

4. LO: Can I predict what the novel might be about?
Can I relate the novel to 1930s America?
John Steinbeck was born in Salinas, California, and many of his novels are set in this part of the USA. He was born into a middle-class family but left university without taking a degree. Before finding success as a writer he worked in a variety of labouring jobs. This experience was reflected in his work, with many of his novels dealing with the plight of the poor and dispossessed.
Watch the video – Think about Steinbeck’s message.
Click on picture for video biography
What do you think Steinbeck’s message might be?
Why did he write the novel?