Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. Telling the truth is generally considered good, but when might it not be? Why might telling the truth create tension in relationships? When might individuals refrain from telling the truth?

Teaching Suggestion: Wallace’s father rarely tells the truth. As a result, Wallace has vowed always to tell the truth. This character trait in Wallace becomes problematic when his teacher forces him to write a positive book report on Old Shep, My Pal, a novel where the dog, Old Shep, dies. Extended discussion possibilities include honesty, when it is the most beneficial, and whether it may be beneficial to tell a white lie in some circumstances. Information from these or similar resources can help students develop additional context on the topic.

• This 17-minute video explores why people lie. Around the 2:45 minute mark, the presenter defines lying and the different kinds of lies.
• This article analyzes honesty and when it may or may not be the best approach.

2. How do stereotypes and biases shape our perspectives? Why might people apply these principles to individuals they encounter?