The Nickel Boys Lesson Plan

How does the reality of Nickel Academy contrast its pleasant façade?

Part II reveals the horrors that lie beneath Nickel Academy’s façade. As Elwood drives up to the school, he notices its pleasant appearance—which is quickly shattered as Elwood witnesses extreme violence, abuse, and racism within the school’s confines. His first time looking at the school metaphorically foreshadows Nickel Academy’s dark dualism.

To the outside world, the school appears presentable, just like it appears peaceful when Elwood first looks at it from the outside. However, once he is inside, Elwood experiences and sees first-hand just how horrifying the circumstances within the school are.