Friends on Opposite Sides

Why does Sam run to tell William the news about his father?

• He wants to prove that his father is more important than William’s father.

• He is excited and proud of his father’s decision to join the army.

• He wants William to join the Continental Army too.

• He hopes to change William’s mind about the king.

Which statement best summarizes the story?

• Sam and William disagree about the war, but they both agree to join the Continental Army.

• Sam is proud of his father’s decision to fight for freedom, while William wants to stay loyal to Britain. Despite their differences, the boys remain friends.

• Sam convinces William to leave town and join the Continental Army with him.

• Sam and William argue about their families’ roles in the war and stop speaking to each other.

Which quotation helps the reader understand the time of year in the story?

• “The hot, sticky air of the late afternoon hung heavy in the sky.”

• “The sound of footsteps echoed through the silent streets.”

• “His father’s blue coat blended into the sea of Patriot soldiers.”

• “Sam found William sitting by the river, skipping rocks.”

What can we infer about Sam’s feelings toward his father’s decision to join the Continental Army?

• He is angry that his father will leave him behind.

• He is proud of his father and believes it is the right thing to do.

• He feels uncertain about the outcome of the war.

• He is worried that his father may not come back.

What caused William to worry about his own future?

• The British army is getting closer to the town.

• Hearing that some Loyalists are planning to move to Canada.

• His father joins the Continental Army.

• News of a Patriot victory reaches the town.

What does Sam’s decision to sit by the river with William after their argument reveal about their friendship?

• Sam wants to distance himself from William because of their disagreements.

• Sam is ready to forgive William and values their friendship despite their differences.

• Sam is frustrated and doesn’t want to talk to William anymore.

• Sam feels indifferent and doesn’t care about the argument.

What is the theme of the story?

• Loyalty to your country is the most important thing.

• Friendship can survive even when you have different opinions.

• It’s best to avoid conflict at all costs.

• Everyone should be on the same side in a war.

What does the phrase "his chest swelled with pride" mean in the sentence: "The sight made his chest swell with pride"?

• He felt sad.

• He felt proud and happy.

• He was confused.

• He felt scared.

What does the word "scowled" mean in the sentence: "Sam scowled, frustrated by William’s words"?

• Smiled

• Frowned or looked angry

• Laughed

• Looked surprised

How does the argument between Sam and William affect their friendship?

• It causes them to stop being friends forever.

• It makes their friendship stronger because they share the same opinion.

• It creates tension, but they both understand each other better by the end.

• It doesn’t affect their friendship at all.