Please discuss the following questions about the film Finding Forrester:
- William marks up Jamal’s writing very harshly, calling much of the writing “constipated.” Jamal responds by being both offended but also by seeking more feedback. Discuss the nature of responding seriously to student work.
- William has Jamal copy his own words in order to find his voice: “The rhythm of typing moves us and then we find our own voice.” Discuss idea about teaching writing as it relates to our other readings.
- William says “writers write so readers can read.” He hates critics. Jamal says, “What good is it having a filing cabinet full of writing that no one ever can read?” Discuss the relationship of writers and readers given these statements.
- Jamal is accused of plagiarism and refuses to back down. Discuss his challenge in relation to other plagiarism issues.
- Jamal’s brother Terrell calls William “a strange dude.” Jamal calls William his teacher. What message about teaching does the film ultimately deliver?
- William says, “If you want to write, then write.” What message about writing does the film deliver?