10 Questions
What institution is Elwood sent to after being falsely accused?
The Nickel Academy
Who is the founder of The Nickel Academy?
Arthur Nickel
What does Elwood discover about The Nickel Academy's practices?
It has a history of abuse and corruption
Who becomes Elwood's close friend at The Nickel Academy?
Thomas Hill
What punishment is Elwood subjected to after refusing to participate in the fight club?
Extra manual labor
What does Elwood find out about the graveyards at The Nickel Academy?
They are actually mass graves for the students
Why does Elwood try to escape from The Nickel Academy?
To expose the corrupt practices of the academy
What is the significance of the graveyards at The Nickel Academy?
They contain the remains of students who tried to escape
How does Elwood's view of the Civil Rights Movement change after his experiences at The Nickel Academy?
He becomes disillusioned and loses faith in the movement's effectiveness
What drives Elwood to take dangerous risks despite being aware of the consequences at The Nickel Academy?
His hope for justice and a better future
Study Notes
The Nickel Academy
- Elwood is sent to The Nickel Academy after being falsely accused.
- The Nickel Academy was founded by Eleanor Nickel.
- Elwood discovers that the academy has inhumane practices, including forced labor, physical abuse, and racial segregation.
- Elwood befriends Turner, a rebellious and outspoken student, at The Nickel Academy.
Punishment and Consequences
- Elwood is subjected to the "White Room" punishment, a sensory deprivation cell, after refusing to participate in the fight club.
- Elwood finds out that the academy has two graveyards, one for white students and one for black students, highlighting the racial segregation and mistreatment.
Escape and Motivations
- Elwood tries to escape from The Nickel Academy due to the harsh conditions and inhumane treatment.
- The significance of the graveyards at The Nickel Academy is that they serve as a symbol of the academy's dark history and mistreatment of students.
- Elwood's experiences at The Nickel Academy change his view of the Civil Rights Movement, making him realize that the struggle for equality is not just a philosophical concept, but a harsh reality.
Risks and Consequences
- Despite being aware of the consequences, Elwood is driven to take dangerous risks to escape the academy and fight against the injustices, motivated by his strong sense of morality and desire for freedom.
Test your knowledge on chapters 4-10 of The Nickel Boys as a freshman teacher would. Answer questions about Elwood's experiences at The Nickel Academy, including his discovery about the institution's practices, friendships, and the graveyards.
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