Character traits
Which character is described as someone who “always wants to be in charge” and gets upset when things don’t go his way?
Jake
Who apologizes to Jake and why?
Mia apologizes to Jake for being competitive and says she should’ve let him have another turn; this calms Jake.
In the text, what does the word “stomped” most nearly mean? Example - He stomped away.
Walking angrily, heavily off
Which character suggests taking turns as captain to keep things fair?
Olivia
Based on the story, what lesson about friendship is suggested in one sentence?
Friends help each other solve conflicts
What does dribbled mean?
move the soccer ball while running with it
The character who acts as the referee during the game
Tyler
What does Jake’s reaction to Tyler’s save (calling it “lucky”) reveal about his attitude toward fairness and competition?
He believes that he does not believe in fairness and has challenges with competition
The sentence says Jake “gritted his teeth.” What does this phrase reveal about his feelings?
He is showing frustation and anger
What event starts the disagreement about team selection?
Picking captain
Identify a theme of the story
What are balanced teams?
Teams that he equal chance of winning
What method do the kids use to decide the captain when Jake and Mia argue?
Flip a coin
Identify two actions (with quotations) that show Jake’s growth and explain how each action demonstrates change.
Examples: Jake apologizes/accepts (“Yeah. I guess I overreacted.”) and later cheers when Mia scores — shows emotional growth and sportsmanship.
What is a rivalry?
is a state of active competition between two or more individuals, groups, or organizations competing for the same goal