Movie theme
the belief that certain races possess inherent qualities that make them superior or inferior to others
racism
What is Ms Gruwell's first name?
Erin
What is the name of the school?
Wilson High School
Why are students divided at the beginning of the film?
racial and gang rivalries
When was the Holocaust and which group of people were persecuted?
WW2, Jewish people
willingness to accept behaviour and beliefs that are different from your own, although you might not agree with or approve of them
tolerance
Who gave Ms. Gruwell her pearl necklace?
Her father
How many students in the class know what the Holocaust is?
1
What does Ms. Gruwell do to support her students financially?
takes on extra jobs
What was the name of the Holocaust victim who came to visit students?
Miep Gies
to believe that someone is good and honest and will not harm you, or that something is safe and reliable
trust
What happens with Ms. Gruwell and her husband?
They get a divorce
Which book do students read with Ms Gruwell?
The Diary of Anne Frank
Why do Ms. Gruwells colleagues criticise her?
- they don't believe she will succeed
- they think she is naive
- they don't believe in the students
What had a great increase following the Rodney King riots in Long Beach?
murders
great courage or bravery
heroism
Which rap artist does Ms. Gruwell use to try to teach students?
Tupac
What is the title of the students' diaries?
The Freedom Writer's diaries
What are the challenges that Ms. Gruwell faces during the film? (name 2)
- lack of admin support from the school
- lack of resources
- difficulty to connect with students (in beginning)
Which Californian city had the Rodney King riots?
Los Angeles
having a good attitude and believing that good things will happen in the end
positivity
27,000
What do the group want Ms Gruwell to do?
Why do you think the students begin to connect with Ms Gruwell? List two examples of events in the film.
Could include:
- buying books
- field trip
- toast for change
- the line exercise
Who was Rodney King?
An african american victim of police brutality. His mistreatment led to public protests, riots and reforms