Dead Poets Society: Anticipation Guide

Name: __________________________________________

Prior to our viewing of the film Dead Poet’s Society, read the statements below related to
big ideas that are addressed in the film. Give your “Before Viewing” opinion and explain
your thinking. Once we have finished the movie, we will come back to these concepts and
see if your thinking has changed.

Statement Before My thinking After

Viewing Viewing
1. Strict parental guidance is
necessary for the safe Y/ N Y/ N
development of a teenager.

2. It is challenging to actively
disagree with what your friends Y/ N Y/ N
think, say, and do.

3. The study of literature and

history is important to develop Y/ N Y/ N
as a thoughtful teenager.

4. Excellence for a student is

measured by what university Y/ N Y/ N
that student gets in to.

5. Traditions are a necessary and

important part of growing up. Y/ N Y/ N

6. Teachers can be trusted to give

good advice. Y/ N Y/ N