
Close Harmony
Discussion Questions
- Why does Arlene Symons want to establish an intergenerational choir? How
does her idea address some of the needs of young and old members of our society?
- How does the film reveal the secrets of the success of this intergenerational
experiment? Evaluate the role Arlene Symons plays in its success.
- Which of the children's comments strikes you as most significant? Are you
surprised by any of their attitudes toward older people?
- What do you think the children learn from having these experiences with
the adults? What do the adults learn?
- What are some of the ways the generation gap is bridged in this film? Are
you surprised by any of the comments the children make when they refer to
what it means to be "old"?
- Why is the activity of writing letters such a good idea? What does the activity
mean to the children? What does it mean to the older people?
- What are some of the ways in which this film would be effective in addressing
negative stereotypes toward aging?
- Can you recall the last scene in the film? Why is this scene an appropriate
ending?
The Great Circle of Life--Home Page
Text of The Great Circle
of Life: A Resource Guide to Films and Videos on Aging, copyright ©
1987, 1999, 2005, Robert E. Yahnke. All photographs copyrighted by Robert E.
Yahnke. All rights reserved. Contact author for permission to copy
photographs or reprint portions of text.