Explain the role Burmese Independence and Colonization plays in Elephant Run. Consider these questions in addition to your own ideas:

• How is colonization central to the plot of the novel?
• How does colonization play a role in each of the characters’ lives?
• How is Burmese independence used to manipulate the people in Burma?
• Why do you think Bukong continued to support Japan even after they were enslaving the people of Burma?
• What might have happened to Burma during World War II if the country had already gained its independence from Britain when the war started?

Teaching Suggestion: Consider allowing students to access the novel for reference as they answer the questions. Students may require time to brainstorm a list of characters to draw conclusions about the impact of colonization on each character. It may be helpful to permit students to create a written response to the questions prior to joining a class or small-group discussion.

Differentiation Suggestion: For students who might benefit from additional assistance, consider asking them to draw a three-circle Venn diagram to compare the attitudes of the various people about Burmese Independence and Colonization. The students should have one circle that represents the British, one that represents the Burmese, and one that represents the Japanese.