Exploring Seventh Grade by Gary Soto

Victor starts seventh grade with hopes of impressing Teresa, a girl he likes. He chooses French as his elective, hoping to be in the same class as her. Victor's friend Michael introduces him to the idea of scowling to appear attractive. Throughout the day, Victor navigates various classes, including an embarrassing moment in French class where he pretends to know the language. Despite the setback, Teresa is impressed, and Victor resolves to improve his French skills, ending the day with a positive outlook on the school year.

Why does Victor choose French as his elective?

• He wants to impress Teresa.

• He plans to travel to France someday.

• He thinks it will be easy.

• He already knows Spanish and English.

What new habit did Michael adopt over the summer?

• Playing baseball

• Reading books

• Learning French

• Scowling like male models

What does Victor think about Michael's new habit?

• He thinks it will impress girls.

• He wants to try it too.

• He thinks it's cool.

• He finds it strange.

What subject does Victor find most challenging?

• Social Studies

• Math

• French

• English

How does Victor feel when he sees Teresa in homeroom?

• Angry

• Indifferent

• Confident

• Nervous

What does Victor do during lunch to try to see Teresa?

• He walks around the campus.

• He eats quickly.

• He pretends to study.

• He sits with Michael.

How does Victor try to impress Teresa in French class?

• By sitting next to her

• By answering the teacher's question

• By giving her a gift

• By speaking fluent French

What is Victor's reaction when he realizes he doesn't know French?

• He laughs it off.

• He feels embarrassed.

• He asks for help.

• He leaves the class.

What does Teresa ask Victor after French class?

• If he wants to go to the library

• If he likes French class

• If he can help her with French

• If he wants to sit with her at lunch

How does Victor feel about the new school year at the end of the story?

• Disappointed

• Indifferent

• Hopeful

• Anxious