Social Issues in Film
Poetic Voices of Change
Connecting Poetry & Film
Real World Connection
100

What was the main social issue addressed in freedom writers ? 

Gang violence and racial tensions in schools

100

In not a drill, what social issue does Fanta Ballo highlight ?

Gun violence 
100

Both leaders focus on overcoming challenges. what is one key difference in how they deliver their messages ?

Coach Carter uses tough love and discipline while

100

What is one way young people today can advocate for change? 

protests, social media, activism, writing, etc

200

Why did Coach Carter lock the gym in Coach Carter ?

To emphasize the importance of education over basketball 

200

What is Maya Angelou Still I Rise about ?

Overcoming oppression and rising above struggles 

200

How does Still I Rise reflect the perseverance of the students in Coach Carter ? 

Both show resilience in overcoming obstacles 

200

name a modern poet or musician who writes about social justice. 

kendrick Lamar, j Cole, etc 

300

How did Erin Gruwell gain her students trust in freedom writers?

By introducing journals and making personal connections 

300

How can spoken word poetry be more powerful than written poetry in activism ?

It uses tone, movement, and performance to engage and connect with audiences. 

300

How do the poets and movies emphasize the power of education?

They show that knowledge helps break the barriers and create opportunities.

300

What role does storytelling play in activism ? 

It raises awareness, create empathy, and educate others. 

400

Name one real-world issue that students in Coach Carter faced.

Poverty, lack of support at home, gang involvement. 

400

In Just Like You, Fanta Ball explores themes of identity and belonging. who is the speaker addressing in the poem ? 

Someone who doesn't see or understand their struggles, possibly society at large 

400

In both films, writing plays an important role in helping students express themselves . How does poetry serve a similar purposing ?

Poetry allows people to share personal experiences, process emotions and challenge injustices just like students in the film 

400

How can podcasting be a tool for social justice ?

It gives people a platform to share stories and educate others 

500

How do both movies show the impact of education on social change ? 

Teachers and mentors help students break cycles of violence and poverty through learning 

500

How do all three poets- Fanta Ball, Maya Angelou, and Langston Hughes use personal experiences to address larger social issues ? 

They write from their perspectives as black poets to discuss racial injustice, violence and resilience in the face of struggle.

500

How do the themes of Just like you reflect the experience of the students in freedom writers ? 

The poem talks about wanting to be understood, just as students in the film struggling with being judged by their teachers and society. 

500
What social issues do you think need more attention today? 

- Open-ended discussion -