1. In Dr. Palleni's office, Philip said some things that were not the whole truth. List at least three of
these statements. What does this tell you about Phillip? Should it still be considered lying if
someone does not tell the whole truth? Explain.
2. Margaret Narwin wished for respect from three groups of people. Who are they, list them and
explain why you think she chose these three groups?
3. Compare and contrast different teaching styles of two teachers you have had. Then evaluate the
differences between Mr. Lunser's and Miss Narwin's approaches to classroom activities.
4. Explain the misconception that Philip's parents had about his reason for singing the national
anthem. Would there be a difference in their attitude if they knew the whole truth? Explain.
5. Friday night, March 30, Philip wrote in a diary entry that he had a headache and, "...I don't feel
so great." What do you think caused Philip to feel bad, and what should he have done about it?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6. Do you think this novel portrays realistic views of both students and teachers? Explain your
position by discussing specific examples of both real life and events that have happened in the
book.
7. How does the author’s use of documents and personal accounts affect the reader and the
“truths” of this book?
8. Thinking of the quote “There are three truths to every story; yours, mine, and the real truth”
what does this mean and how does this apply to the title of the book “Nothing But the Truth”?
9. Discuss the pros and cons of the media’s (radio, television, newspapers) role in this book. Refer
to specific examples from the text to support your claims. Connect your discussion to the
positive and negative influences of media in today’s society.
10. Communication between parents and their children, between students themselves, and
certainly between Philip and his peers seems to be dysfunctional. Write an essay in which you
discuss the theme of communication (or miscommunication) in this book. Refer to specific
examples from the text to support your claims.
11. In the novel, there is mention that Philip’s First Amendment rights are being violated. Write a
multiple paragraph essay addressing whether or not Philip Malloy’s rights or anyone else’s rights
are being violated. Refer to specific examples from the text to support your claims.