The Pursuit of Happyness

After watching a movie with your children or students, we encourage parents and teachers to look for education opportunities to teach with movies. Here are a few discussion topics that can help with lesson plans or teaching in the home.

Many times Chris and his son are shown riding on public transit. What types of commuters were likely on the train or bus with them? What conditions may people be living in that are not readily evident?

Why does Chris try to maintain a certain public image even when he is struggling? How does his perseverance pay off? How might things have gone differently if he had whined at the office about his situation? Instead, what qualities do you think made him stand out from the other interns?

What circumstances may lead a person to end up on the street? What kind of programs or social aid do you think should be given? Do all homeless people need the same kind of help? What contributions can an individual make to improve the lives of people living in shelters?

For more information on the real Chris Gardner’s story, check out this link: http://www.chrisgardnermedia.com/