CHARACTERIZATION
At the beginning of Thank You, M’am, what does Roger's attempt to steal Mrs. Jones's purse reveal about his character?
He is desperate and willing to make a poor choice to get something he wants.
What problem does Roger face at the beginning of Thank You, M’am?
He wants blue suede shoes but does not have the money to buy them.
Hughes includes dialogue such as “Yes’m” and “No’m.” What does this help establish?
It helps reveal the characters' personalities, relationship, and respect for one another.
What is one major topic explored in Thank You, M’am?
Kindness, trust, forgiveness, choices, or second chances.
What do Leroy and Roger both experience?
Both experience difficult circumstances that influence their choices and opportunities.
Mrs. Jones tells Roger that she has wanted things she could not afford when she was young. What does this reveal about her?
She is understanding and empathetic because she recognizes that people can make mistakes.
Roger's desire for the shoes leads him to make what kind of choice?
He chooses to try to steal Mrs. Jones's purse.
Why does Hughes describe Roger as “frail and willow-wild”?
The description helps readers visualize Roger and recognize that he is young and physically vulnerable.
What lesson does Roger begin to learn from Mrs. Jones?
People can make mistakes and still have the opportunity to make better choices.
How does another person positively affect Roger's life?
Mrs. Jones shows him compassion and gives him an opportunity to make a better choice.
Roger chooses to stay in Mrs. Jones's room even though the door is open. What does this action suggest about his character?
He is beginning to develop trust and respect for Mrs. Jones and wants to show that he can be trusted.
Why is Roger surprised when Mrs. Jones does not take him to the police?
He expects punishment, but instead she chooses to teach him through kindness and responsibility.
Why does Hughes include the long pauses and silences between Roger and Mrs. Jones?
They show Roger's uncertainty and discomfort while also giving him time to think about what is happening.
Why is Mrs. Jones's kindness especially meaningful to Roger?
Instead of treating him only as a criminal, she treats him as a person who is capable of changing.
How does friendship play an important role in High School Teammates Carry On?
Friendship provides support, encouragement, and motivation when the characters face significant challenges.
Mrs. Jones gives Roger money for the shoes he wanted. What does this action reveal about her character?
She is generous and compassionate, but she also expects Roger to learn from his mistake.
What important choice does Mrs. Jones make after Roger tries to steal from her?
She chooses to help and teach Roger instead of simply punishing him.
Mrs. Jones leaves her purse unattended while she prepares food. Why is this detail important?
It shows that she is giving Roger an opportunity to prove that he can be trusted.
Which statement best represents a message of the story?
Compassion and understanding can influence someone to make better choices.
What is one important similarity between Mrs. Jones and the people who support Leroy and Dartanyon?
They look beyond a person's circumstances and recognize their potential rather than defining them by their difficulties.
Roger changes significantly during the story. Which best describes his character arc? .
He changes from someone willing to steal to someone who feels grateful and begins to understand the importance of trust and kindness.
How does Mrs. Jones's response to Roger change the direction of the conflict?
Her compassion turns a confrontation into an opportunity for Roger to learn, change, and make a better choice.
Hughes ends the story with Roger struggling to find the words to fully express his gratitude. Why is this an effective ending?
It emphasizes that Mrs. Jones's kindness has affected Roger deeply, even though he cannot fully express his feelings.
Mrs. Jones never gives Roger a formal lecture about becoming a better person. How does she teach him instead?
She teaches him through her actions—trusting him, feeding him, listening to him, and giving him an opportunity to do better
Both texts show people facing circumstances that could make it difficult to succeed. What do the texts suggest about the difference that another person's support can make?
Both texts suggest that compassion, friendship, and support can give people the encouragement and opportunity they need to overcome challenges and make positive changes.