Spitballs and Paper Airplanes as Symbols of Childhood Misbehavior
Throughout the book, readers see the children in Miss Nelson's class throwing paper airplanes and spitballs at their classmates (and teacher). These items, and actions, are symbolic of the class’s immaturity and their efforts to make Miss Nelson's life a living hell. Their actions are inherently child-like and underscore the lengths the children will go to get rid of their teacher. Of course, their efforts backfire, as the less-than-ideal Mrs. Swamp takes over from Miss Nelson.
Mrs. Swamp as Symbol of Retribution
Mrs. Swamp, the cantankerous substitute that replaces Miss Nelson after she leaves her classroom, is put in Miss Nelson's classroom to teach the rambunctious children a lesson about respect and discipline. The book's big reveal is that Miss Nelson has dressed up as Mrs. Swamp and taken up an entirely new, strict personality to teach her class a lesson. This act of retribution for the classes' misbehavior makes their ultimate realization that Miss Nelson wasn't so bad more poignant.
Books as a Symbol of Defiance
The books that Miss Nelson asks their class to read are symbols of defiance. To the children in Miss Nelson's class, books represent what they should be doing -- not what they want to do. And to the children, that's unacceptable. They don't like doing the things they should do; not reading their books is their way to defy the normal order of things, as set by their teacher.
Motif: Miss Nelson's Frustration
Despite her calm demeanor and the care with which she treats her students, her classes' behavior has led Miss Nelson to lash out in moments of frustration. Although this is done with kindness and respect, Miss Nelson's frustration at her classes' misbehavior is evident. Ultimately, this frustration inspires her to become and embody Mrs. Swamp, who whips the class into order.
