Characters and Relationships
Who is the teacher that helps transform her students' lives?
Ms. Gruwell
What do the students write in to tell their stories?
Diaries
What game does Erin play with the class on the first day?
The Line Game
What problem do students face because of gangs?
Violence
Who says: “You are not failing—you’re just finding your way”?
Ms. Gruwell
What is the nickname of the student who struggles with gang involvement but changes over time?
Eva Benitez
What is one problem the students in the movie face?
Racism, homelessness, family insecurity...
Why don’t the students like Erin at first?
They think she doesn’t understand them. They assume she’s like other teachers who gave up on them.
What makes it hard for some students to focus in school?
Poverty, homelessness, family insecurity...
Which character says: “I got your back. Don’t worry”?
Marcus
What conflict does Marcus experience with his family?
He is kicked out of the house by his mother.
How does education help the students?
It gives them hope and a way to change their lives.
What book does Erin give the students to read?
The Diary of Anne Frank
What do many students’ families struggle with?
Gang violence, poverty, crime, prison...
What message does Miep Gies give the students?
“You are heroes in your own way.”
Why does Erin Gruwell’s husband leave her?
He feels neglected and doesn’t understand her dedication to her students.
What does Erin teach the students when she gives them new notebooks?
That their stories matter
How do the students raise money to invite Miep Gies?
They hold a fundraiser with community support.
What problem does Erin face with her school’s administration?
They don’t support her teaching ideas.
What does Erin say about education?
“Education is something no one can take away from you.”
Which historical figure does the class write letters to, inspiring a personal visit?
Miep Gies
What lesson does Eva learn when she tells the truth in court?
To do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Eva learns to tell the truth in court, even though it risks her standing with her gang
What big change happens to the students by the end of the movie?
They respect each other and enjoy learning.
How do the students learn to understand each other better?
By sharing their stories
What lesson do the students learn by the end of the movie?
They learn that they can change their lives.