Students are to watch “Waiting for Superman,” both of which are available on Netflix. They

are then to respond to the respective documentary’s questions (and sub-questions) provided below, and adhere

to the following guidelines.

Times New Roman, 12pt font, and 1 inch margins

Two full pages and single spaced (approx. 1,000 words total

Answers are to be numbered and correspond to the respective 5 questions.

Student Name in the upper right corner with the Title center-justified “{Insert Documentary Title}

Reflection.”

The final question relating to the role of social workers should have the most comprehensive and

lengthy response. Be sure to draw upon class reading and lectures and incorporate social work values,

practices, theories and/or approaches in your response.

Students will be graded on the depth of their response and their ability to demonstrate their critical

thinking skills.

answer the following questions on the movie:

1. In Waiting for Superman five families were followed on their journey to enroll their children in public

schools where students are challenged and supported in programs that prepare them for college. What is

your vision of a great public school? What are the key characteristics of a great school?

2. In the film, several examples of schools are characterized by a culture of low expectations and low

achievement. What do you believe are the root causes of chronically low-performing schools? What is

being done to improve them? What should be done?

3. Research shows that what happens outside of school – such as neighborhood violence or inadequate health

care or housing – has a significant impact on classroom learning and student achievement. In your

experience, what is the relationship between neighborhood quality of life and student achievement?

4. In what ways did this film challenge, confirm, and/or provide context for your thoughts and attitudes

towards our education system?

5. After seeing Waiting for Superman, what do you see as the role of social workers as it pertains to the

education system? Be sure to draw on class lectures and apply social work theories, approaches, practices,

or values in your response.