Question 1: What does Holden mean by calling someone 'phony'? Provide a brief explanation (1-2 sentences).

Answer: Holden considers someone 'phony' if they are insincere, superficial, or fake in their behaviour or intentions.

Question 2: Identify one phrase Holden uses to describe superficial behaviour in society.

Answer: ‘trying to be something they’re not’

Question 3: What literary technique is primarily used when Holden repeats the word 'phony' throughout the novel?

Answer: b) Repetition

Question 4: Analyse how Holden’s tone when describing 'phoniness' influences the reader’s understanding of his character.

Answer: Holden’s critical and often disdainful tone when discussing phoniness reveals his deep disillusionment with society. It suggests he values authenticity and feels alienated by superficiality, which shapes our perception of him as a complex, sensitive character who struggles to reconcile his ideals with reality.

Question 5: Identify one example of Holden's language that shows his disdain for adult superficiality.

Answer: Holden notes that many adults 'try to act so sophisticated.'

Question 6: Insert a quote from the summary that highlights Holden’s perception of superficiality.

Answer: ‘just fake their way through life’

Question 7: How does the recurring phrase 'phony' function as a motif in the novel?

Answer: It underscores Holden’s obsession with inauthenticity and represents his persistent judgment of society.

Question 8: Describe in a short paragraph how Holden’s attitude towards phoniness might reflect themes of innocence and authenticity.

Answer: Holden’s disdain for phoniness reflects his desire to preserve innocence and genuine connection in a world he perceives as corrupt and superficial. His critique of insincerity highlights his struggle to maintain personal authenticity and his longing for truthful, meaningful relationships, which are central themes of the novel.

Question 9: Create a brief annotation activity: Choose a short phrase from the summary and explain how it illustrates Holden’s attitude towards societal superficiality.

Answer: Students should select phrases like 'trying to be something they’re not' and explain that it shows Holden’s view that many people superficiality is driven by a desire to impress others, which he finds inauthentic and false.