Middle School The Worst Years of my Life 42-47

What is most likely the author’s purpose in including a wordless illustration of Christmas morning in Chapter 42?

• To create a pause in the plot for suspense

• To show an exaggerated, possibly unrealistic version of events

• To give the reader a break from the main storyline

What does Rafe’s response to receiving a gift “from” Bear suggest about his character?

• He is impulsive and reactive

• He wants to avoid hurting his mom

• He is eager to bond with Bear

What is the theme expressed when Rafe says, “That’s exactly how it felt to me...I just call it my own rotten luck”?

• Joy comes in short bursts

• Life is unpredictable and often unfair

• Holidays always bring disappointment

The scene where Bear takes the last piece of pie and walks away contributes to the mood by showing:

• Bear’s constant hunger

• Bear’s childish pettiness

• Bear’s attempt to calm the situation

What does the repeated use of the nickname “Squirt” suggest about Bear’s relationship with Rafe?

• It’s affectionate and supportive

• It’s mocking and disrespectful

• It’s formal and impersonal

What theme is developed through the interaction between Rafe and Miller at school?

• Standing up to bullies is always rewarding

• Silence is the best form of resistance

• Power struggles can escalate without warning

What does Rafe’s mental “thermometer” in the hallway scene symbolize?

• His rising temperature

• His increasing frustration

• His desire to measure time

When Rafe imagines being imprisoned by Stricker, the author is primarily using:

• Metaphor to show Rafe’s fear

• Foreshadowing of actual jail time

• Simile to lighten the mood

In the imagined prison scene, the use of “brass knuckles” and “cage fighting” references creates what kind of tone?

• Humorous and light

• Intense and violent

• Sad and reflective

What does the setting of “the box” in Chapter 47 represent for Rafe?

• A peaceful place to concentrate

• A symbol of isolation and punishment

• A chance to redo his mistakes