10 Discussion Questions for Wonder

Good discussion is the heart of any English class, and Wonder by R.J. Palacio provides so much rich material for students to reflect on and discuss.

The questions below can be used to initiate discussion in small groups, or as a whole class. Often it can be helpful to start with small groups, and then have them come together for a larger discussion.

You can also use them as writing prompts or paragraph questions.

Here are ten discussion questions for Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

Wonder Discussion Questions

1. How does August’s facial difference impact his relationships with others and his perception of himself?
2. Discuss the theme of kindness and empathy in the novel. How do the characters respond to August and how do their actions impact him?
3. How do August’s experiences at Beecher Prep School differ from his experiences at his previous school?
4. Discuss the role of family in the novel. How do August’s parents and siblings support and challenge him?
5. How do the characters’ perceptions of August change throughout the novel?
6. Discuss the theme of bullying in the novel. How do August and the other characters deal with bullying and its effects on them?
7. How does the novel address the themes of appearance and acceptance?
8. Discuss the role of imagination and creativity in the novel. How do August and the other characters use their imaginations to cope with challenges and obstacles?
9. How does the novel portray the importance of friendship and the challenges of making and maintaining friendships?
10. Discuss the ending of the novel. How does August’s journey end and what does this reveal about the themes of the novel?

Full Unit Plan

These discussion questions are a great place to start, but if you want everything you need to teach Wonder in one download, check out this amazing full unit plan.