The Turning Point

What evidence from the text best supports the idea that Alex felt overwhelmed by his schoolwork? (RL 7.1)

• 1. He joined a study group with Jordan.

• 1. He described his room as chaotic and out of control. 

• 1. He received a B+ on his math test. 

• 1. He worked on a science project with Jordan.

Which statement from the text shows that Alex's parents were worried about his academic performance? (RL 7.1)

• 1. "My grades were slipping, and I often found myself in trouble." 

• 1. "They emphasized the importance of education and making better choices." 

• 1. "Jordan invited me to work on a science project together." 

• 1. "My teachers noticed my increased effort and began offering additional help."

How does the setting of Alex's home contribute to his feelings of frustration and hopelessness? (RL 7.3)

• 1. The arguments between his parents create a tense atmosphere. 

• 1. The science project with Jordan provides a sense of accomplishment. 

• 1. The study group helps him improve his grades. 

• 1. The principal's office offers a place for him to reflect on his actions.

How does Ms. Rivera's office setting impact Alex's ability to open up about his struggles? (RL 7.3)

• 1. It makes him feel more overwhelmed. 

• 1. It makes him feel more comfortable and supported. 

• 1. It reminds him of his messy room at home. 

• 1. It distracts him from his schoolwork.

How does the structure of the story, with a focus on Alex's thoughts and feelings, contribute to the overall theme? (RL 7.5)

• 1. It emphasizes the importance of science projects. 

• 1. It highlights the significance of parental involvement in education. 

• 1. It allows readers to understand Alex's internal struggles and growth. 

• 1. It focuses on the importance of principal’s office meetings.

What is the effect of the story being told from Alex's first-person perspective? (RL 7.5)

• 1. It creates distance between Alex and the reader. 

• 1. It allows the reader to understand Alex's personal experiences and emotions.

• 1. It shifts the focus away from Alex's struggles. 

• 1. It makes it harder for the reader to understand Alex's challenges.

How does the author develop the different perspectives of Alex and his parents on his academic struggles? (RL 7.6)

• 1. By showing only Alex's thoughts and ignoring his parents' concerns. 

• 1. By highlighting both Alex's frustration and his parents' desire to see him succeed. 

• 1. By focusing solely on the principal's perspective. 

• 1. By emphasizing Jordan's point of view.

What can be inferred about Ms. Rivera's perspective on Alex's struggles? (RL 7.6)

There are 2 answers.

• 1. She believes Alex's problems are insurmountable. 

• 1. She thinks Alex should rely solely on his parents for help. 

• 1. She believes in Alex's potential and offers him guidance and support. 

• 1. She thinks Alex should focus more on extracurricular activities.

Why does Alex decide to fully commit to improving his behavior and grades?

• 1. He enjoys working on the science project. 

• 1. He receives a B+ on a math test. 

• 1. He has a heartfelt talk with Ms. Rivera and he realizes he can change. 

• 1. He wants to prove his teachers wrong.

Which statement best describes the turning point in Alex's story?

• 1. Joining the study group and starting to see improvement in his schoolwork. 

• 1. Receiving a pass to see Ms. Rivera. 

  2.  

• 1. Working on the science project with Jordan.

• 1. Getting into a fight with a classmate during lunch.