Read Leslie Marmon Silko's "The Storyteller," then compare and contrast it with stories from Alexie's collection. Discuss how each author portrays the significance of storytelling as both a tradition and a survival mechanism. Use specific examples from both texts to support your analysis.

Investigate the historical and contemporary relationship between the Coeur d'Alene Indians and the Spokane Indians. Present your findings to the class.

Alexie's characters often react to the stereotypes about Native Americans prevalent in popular culture. Research films and novels that depict these stereotypes and list them on the board. Then, compile a list of ways Alexie's stories address and challenge these stereotypes. Discuss your findings as a class.

Alexie frequently describes the ways the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has humiliated Native Americans. Research the BIA and write a brief essay on how it has evolved over the past twenty years.

Debate whether The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven can be classified as a memoir. Provide arguments to support your stance.

The concept of the "authentic Indian" is a recurring theme in Alexie's stories. What does this term mean, and how does Alexie utilize it? Discuss this as a class.

Analyze the films Dancing with Wolves and The Last of the Mohicans in terms of their portrayal of Native American stereotypes. Discuss your findings as a class.

Research the Native American Ghost Dance ritual and write a brief essay on how it serves as a symbol in Alexie's stories.

Compare The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven with its film adaptation, Smoke Signals. Discuss what was excluded and included in the film and speculate on the reasons behind these choices.