Story Details
Where did Marshall Taylor live at the beginning of the story?
Indianapolis, Indiana.
What does the word adept mean?
Skilled or very good at doing something.
Who owned the bicycle shop where Marshall performed tricks?
Thomas Hay and Bert Willits.
What character trait did Marshall show when he practiced bicycle stunts?
Creativity, confidence, or determination. He enjoyed learning tricks and improving his skills.
What is the genre of this story?
Biography. It tells the true story of Marshall Taylor's life and achievements.
How old was Marshall when he won his first bicycle race?
Thirteen years old.
What is a spectator?
A person who watches an event, such as a bicycle race.
Who became Marshall's mentor and invited him to train in Massachusetts?
Louis “Birdie” Munger.
Why did Marshall admire the gold medal in the shop window?
He dreamed of becoming a champion cyclist and wanted to win the medal himself.
What is one theme of Marshall's story?
Talent, determination, and perseverance can help people overcome obstacles. Another acceptable answer is that one person's achievements can challenge prejudice and change opinions.
What job did Marshall have before working at the bicycle shop?
He delivered newspapers on a newspaper route.
What does prevail mean?
a win or triumph. Typically when someone overcomes an opponent.
Why did the shop owners offer Marshall a job?
They were impressed by his bicycle stunts and wanted him to sweep, straighten the shop, and demonstrate his cycling skills.
What can you infer about Birdie Munger from his decision to train Marshall?
Munger recognized Marshall's talent and believed he had the potential to become a great cyclist.
Why is this story a biography rather than a fictional tale?
It describes the life and achievements of a real historical person, Marshall Taylor.
Who gave Marshall his first bicycle?
The Southard family gave him a bicycle when he was eight years old.
What does the nickname “Black Whirlwind” suggest about Marshall?
He was an extremely fast and powerful cyclist.
Why did Marshall change his racing strategy?
Other racers began using cruel and unfair tactics against him. He adapted by moving through openings in the pack to reach the front and stay there.
How did Marshall respond to the unfair treatment of other racers?
He adjusted his racing strategy, continued competing, and focused on winning rather than retaliating. He believed in riding clean and riding fair.
How did Marshall gain recognition in Europe?
French fans welcomed him, newspapers reported on his activities, and he received invitations into the homes of aristocrats . His racing ability earned him respect and admiration.
What happened when Marshall raced Edmond Jacquelin in the rematch?
Marshall won both heats of the rematch, defeating the French champion.
What does perseverance mean, and how did Marshall demonstrate it?
Perseverance means continuing to work toward a goal despite difficulties. Marshall demonstrated it by continuing to train and compete despite unfair treatment.
Why was Marshall's victory in the Jacquelin rematch important?
He defeated the French champion in both heats, demonstrating his exceptional cycling ability and earning a major victory in front of an international audience.
how does the author help you visualize how the other riders felt about Marshall?
The author includes dialogue instead of just saying Marshall was threatened by other riders. For example, “ This race is going to be your last,” they’d taunt.
How can one person affect the opinions of others? Use evidence from Marshall Taylor's story to support your answer.
One person can change opinions through achievements, actions, and perseverance. Marshall Taylor became a world champion despite facing unfair treatment. When he traveled to Europe, fans welcomed and respected him. His success challenges showed that talent and determination can overcome barriers.