Student Activities for Chains
Essential Questions for Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
- What are fundamental rights of all human beings?
- How did the Patriots’ struggle for freedom from Great Britain during the Revolutionary War mirror Isabel’s struggle for freedom from slavery? How were they different?
- What were the lives of enslaved people like in the American colonies in the 1700s?
- What are some of the literary themes present in the novel Chains?
- What are some of the allusions (references to factual people, places, and events) present in the novel Chains?
- What are some examples of symbolism used by the author in the novel and how does the symbolism help you to better understand the characters and their motivation?
- How does this book fit the definition of bildungsroman novel?
Chains Summary
At the opening of the story, Isabel believed she and her sister would gain their freedom upon the death of their enslaver, Mary Finch, as outlined in her will. However, Mary's nephew, Robert Finch, sells Isabel and Ruth to a Loyalist couple: Master and Madam Lockton of New York City. The Locktons treat Isabel and Ruth with brutality and abuse. While Isabel is expected to mirror the loyalties of her new enslavers, a new friend named Curzon convinces her to spy for the Patriots, hoping that by giving their aid it will grant them their freedom. Isabel is able to gain valuable intel from her Loyalist enslavers and smuggle it to the Patriots, including information about a plot to assassinate General George Washington!
After Madam Lockton cruelly sells Ruth, Isabel seeks aid from Colonel Regan hoping he will reward her for her valuable service, but he refuses to help her and sends Isabel back to the Locktons. Isabel faces grave consequences for her actions. Madam Lockton punishes Isabel by branding the letter “I” on her cheek. Afterwards, Isabel is shown kindness and loyalty by her friend Curzon when he helps get her to safety, as well as sympathetic aid from Lady Seymour, the Lockton’s wealthy aunt.
In the meantime, the Patriots have been driven out of New York City as the British, under General Howe, occupy the city. General George Washington faced his first major defeat as he was forced to retreat. Many prisoners were taken captive, including Curzon. Isabel continues to aid the Patriots and secretly brings food to the prisoners and Curzon. When Madam Lockton discovers this, she punishes Isabel so gravely that Isabel knows it is time to muster the courage to escape. Against all odds, Isabel steals a pass, breaks Curzon out of prison, and rows them both across the Hudson to New Jersey. While Isabel has escaped her enslavers, she has not found freedom just yet. The novel ends with Isabel and Curzon on the run in New Jersey. Isabel is determined to find her sister Ruth and she has discovered an inner strength and courage that will carry her through.
Chains is not only a fascinating and compelling novel, it is valuable in teaching students about the time period, slavery, and the American Revolution. The novel references numerous factual people, places, and events and even begins each chapter with a quote from a primary source. This book would compliment any unit on slavery and the American Revolution as it offers multiple opportunities for in-depth discussions and analyses.
How Tos about Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
Engage students with a historical perspective role-play activity about 'Chains'
Invite students to step into the shoes of characters from Chains by assigning roles such as Isabel, Curzon, Madam Lockton, or a Patriot soldier. Encourage students to act out key scenes or create imagined dialogues that reflect the novel’s themes and historical context. This approach helps students deeply understand the characters’ motivations and the realities of the time period.
Prepare clear character cards for each role
Create and distribute character cards that include a brief summary, background information, and notable traits for each character. Use visual markers or symbols to help students quickly identify their roles and understand each character’s perspective.
Facilitate a guided group discussion before role-play
Lead a discussion where students share what they know about their assigned characters and brainstorm how those characters might react in different situations. Encourage respectful listening and critical thinking to set the stage for a meaningful role-play.
Set up and oversee the classroom role-play scenario
Arrange the classroom to represent key settings from the novel (such as the Lockton house or Patriot camp). Guide students as they act out scenes or engage in dialogue, ensuring all voices are heard and everyone stays on task.
Debrief and connect the activity to historical understanding
Discuss the role-play experience as a group, asking students to reflect on what they learned about freedom, courage, and the historical context of Chains. Encourage students to draw connections to real-life events and share how the activity deepened their empathy and knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
What is the novel Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson about?
Chains is a historical fiction novel set in 1776 New York City, following the journey of Isabel, a thirteen-year-old enslaved African-American girl, as she fights for her freedom during the Revolutionary War.
How does Isabel's struggle for freedom in Chains compare to the Patriots' fight against Great Britain?
Isabel's quest for freedom from slavery in Chains mirrors the Patriots’ struggle for independence from Great Britain, though Isabel faces personal stakes and systemic oppression while the Patriots fight for political liberty.
What are the main themes and symbols in Chains?
Main themes in Chains include freedom, courage, and identity. Symbols like Isabel's branded cheek represent both oppression and resilience, helping readers understand character motivations.
How can teachers use Chains to teach about slavery and the American Revolution?
Chains offers opportunities for lessons on slavery in America, the Revolutionary War, and primary sources, making it a valuable resource for in-depth discussions and historical analysis in K–12 classrooms.
Who are the key characters in Chains and what roles do they play?
Key characters in Chains include Isabel (the protagonist), Ruth (her sister), Curzon (her friend and ally), and the Locktons (her enslavers), each contributing to Isabel's journey for freedom.
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