Lesson Questions: American History X

Watch the movie American History X(starring Edward Norton). Answer the following questions and place your document in the drop box. Check the assignment page for the rubric for this assignment.

1. This movie obviously displays extreme forms of racism. However, do you think there are more subtle elements of racism or revenge present in the movie? Do you think such elements occur on a daily basis in the United States?

2. What emotions has this film evoked in you? Describe the scene and your emotion(s).

3. How are the actions/behaviors resulting from racism different today than they were thirty years ago, before the civil rights movement?

4. What are the attitudes toward women, gay people, poor people, and people with disabilities in this movie? How are these attitudes related to attitudes toward People of Color in this movie?

5. Do you know people with racist views? What do you do when you hear racist remarks?

6. How important are previous generations, especially parents, in developing our beliefs? Do parents' values and beliefs inevitably emerge in their children?

7. There are several role models present in this movie: Derek's father, Mr. Sweeney, Derek, and Cameron. Who is a hero in your life, and how does he or she affect what you think?