Text Evidence
What line in the book best shows Josh’s admiration for his dad?
“Dad’s the man.” This line shows Josh looks up to his dad.
What does Josh mean when he says he’s “crossing over” on the basketball court?
“Crossing over” is a basketball move where a player switches direction quickly.
What is one theme related to family that is shown throughout The Crossover?
Family loyalty is a theme, as Josh and JB support each other even when they fight.
How would you describe Josh’s relationship with his dad? Provide a line from the text that shows this.
Josh is very close to his dad and respects him. Evidence: “Dad’s the reason I’m so good at basketball.”
In “The Show,” what does it mean when Josh describes his game as “filthy”?
“Filthy” means Josh’s skills are impressive and exciting to watch.
What evidence shows Josh feels left out because of his brother’s relationship with Sweet Tea?
“He’s always with her, and I’m just standing in the shadows.” This shows Josh feels ignored.
In the poem “The Show,” what does Josh mean by saying he has “a mean game”?
“Mean game” means his skills are strong and impressive.
How does the book show that jealousy can affect relationships? Use a specific example.
Josh feels jealous when JB spends time with Sweet Tea, causing him to act out in anger.
What motivates Josh to play basketball so passionately? Use evidence from the text.
Josh wants to follow in his dad’s footsteps and be the best. Evidence: “Dad says I’m the best.”
In “Basketball Rule #1,” what does the phrase “let your heart and soul guide you” mean?
It means to play with passion and to stay true to yourself.
In the poem “Basketball Rule #3,” what line shows how Josh feels about playing basketball with his brother?
“The game is mine.” Josh feels confident in his skills and wants to win.
What does the word “crossover” symbolize in the story? Give one example of how it applies to Josh’s life.
“Crossover” symbolizes changes and challenges. For example, Josh deals with change in his relationship with his brother.
Describe how The Crossover explores the theme of health and its impact on family.
Josh’s dad’s health scare brings the family closer but also causes worry and stress.
How does JB’s relationship with Sweet Tea affect his relationship with Josh? Give an example.
JB spends more time with Sweet Tea, making Josh feel left out. Evidence: “He’s always with her, and I’m just standing in the shadows.”
Identify a metaphor used to describe Josh’s dad and explain what it suggests about him.
“He’s a silver fox on the court.” This shows his dad is wise and skilled.
Cite a line that shows how important basketball is to Josh’s identity.
“Basketball is my heart and my life.” This shows how deeply Josh connects with the game.
In “Basketball Rule #5,” the author uses the phrase “always leave your heart on the court.” What does this mean?
It means to give everything your best effort and not hold back.
Identify one theme that connects basketball with life lessons. Explain how it appears in the book.
Basketball teaches Josh about discipline and teamwork, skills he needs in life.
Explain how Josh’s feelings about his brother change over the course of the book. Use one line of evidence.
Josh’s feelings go from close to jealous and then to understanding. Evidence: “I just want to be close, like we used to be.”
What does Josh mean when he says he’s “untouchable” on the court? How does this add to the scene?
“Untouchable” means he feels unstoppable. It adds excitement to the game.
Provide evidence from the text that shows how Josh’s actions impact his relationship with JB.
When Josh throws the ball at JB’s face, it creates tension, and JB won’t speak to him.
Explain the meaning of “Patella Tendinitis” and why it’s important to Josh’s father’s story.
Patella tendinitis is a knee injury. It ended his dad’s basketball career and affects his health in the story.
What does The Crossover suggest about forgiveness and understanding in relationships?
Forgiveness is important, as shown when Josh and JB reconcile after their fight.
How does Josh’s father’s past as a basketball player shape Josh’s view of him? Give a specific example from the text.
Josh sees his dad as a hero and wants to be like him. Evidence: “Dad’s the Chuck Da Man Bell, five-time champion.”
Identify and explain the simile “I’m as quick as a cheetah” and how it shows Josh’s skills on the court.
This shows Josh’s speed and agility, comparing him to a fast animal.