THE BREAKFAST CLUB

1. Each of the five students on detention experienced abusive or neglectful parents. Such
abuse or neglect can occur at any age. Think about the students you intend to teach
(elementary, middle school, high school) and the home circumstances of the five Breakfast
Club members. How might you be able to help students in your class who suffer the same
circumstances? For example, what specifically would you do if a “basket case” like Allison
or a socially inept “brain” like Brian were in your class?

2. Mr. Vernon is the “bad guy” in this film. He is a villain to the five students and to the
teaching profession. How does he demonstrate his villainy? What argument can you make
in his defense?

3. Brian’s essay says “You [presumably teachers and administrators] see only what you
want to see.” This implies stereotyping. What stereotypical characteristics do others “see”
of the Princess, Athlete, Brain, Basket Case, and Criminal? How do the students’ lunches
reflect those images?

4. Carl, the custodian, says he is the eyes and ears of Sherman High School and he gives
some examples. What other examples might a custodian at your intended level of teaching
(elementary, middle school, high school) give to further prove that point? Secretaries are
also “eyes and ears” of a school. How so?

5. Claire predicts the five of them will all go back to their separate lives on Monday. The
others say they won’t. What do you think will be the stronger force – peer pressure and
group expectations or new-found friendships and greater self-awareness? Why?