The Giver - Paired Informational Texts - Indoctrination / Medication /Euthanasia

These three thought-provoking, multi-functional, informational texts are designed to get students thinking about controversial real-world topics as well as to illuminate societal norms in Lois Lowry’s dystopian community in ‘The Giver’.

Each article includes analysis questions covering an array of Common Core Informational Text Standards. They also include ‘The Giver’ connection questions and sample answers.

Text 1: The Dangers of Indoctrination: The North Korean Paradigm
North Korea’s regime exemplifies indoctrination and illuminates the brainwashing that takes place in the community.

Text 2: A Closer Look at Aripiprazole
This article on the controversial drug aripiprazole, used for disorders such as bipolar and autism, highlights ethical issues such as control and consent, and resonates with obligatory pills taken for ‘stirrings’ in ‘The Giver’.

Text 3: Euthanasia and the Ethics of Life and Death: A Focus on the Netherlands’ Approach
The Netherlands’ introduction of euthanasia sparks thought provoking debates about the concept of ‘release’ in ‘The Giver’.