1. Grade Nine Quarter Two Close Reading Lesson

2. “The Talk” by Gary Soto Question One
How do the boys in the essay see life realistically?
Answer in 2-3 sentences using at least 2 details from the text for support.

3. “The Talk” by Gary Soto Question Two
How do the boys in the essay see life unrealistically?
Answer in 2-3 sentences using at least 2 details from the text for support.

4. “The Talk” by Gary Soto Question Three
Explain whether the boys are truly “in big trouble” or not.
Answer in 2-3 sentences using at least 2 details from the text for support.

5. “The Talk” by Gary Soto Question Four
How does the word “pumping” in “The Talk” differ in use from the word “pumps” in “Ex-Basketball Player”?
Answer in 2-3 sentences using at least 2 details from the text for support.

6. “Ex-Basketball Player” by John Updike
Question Five
What was Flick like in high school?
Write a brief paragraph. Include at least two details from the poem.

7. “Ex-Basketball Player” by John Updike
Question Six
Describe the town in which the poem is set.
Write a short description of the town including at least two details from the poem.

8. “Ex-Basketball Player” by John Updike
Question Seven
How does Flick differ from the boys in “The Talk”?
Write a paragraph in which you explore the differences between the characters. Use details from both texts for support.

9. Health Beat “Boys and Body Image”
Question Eight
According to the author, what makes this a reliable study?
Write a short, one- or two-sentence answer. Include support from the text.

10. Health Beat “Boys and Body Image”
Question Nine
Write a summary of findings and conclusions in this article.
In 2-3 sentences summarize the conclusions and findings. Be sure to include all important points.

11. Health Beat “Boys and Body Image”
Question Ten
Explain whether the findings in this article support or refute the feelings of the boys in “The Talk.”
Choose a side and write a short paragraph supporting your decision. Use support from both texts for support.

12. Culminating Writing Activity
Write a two-paragraph essay responding to the following prompt.
According to examples in the three texts, analyze how self-image may affect the lives and futures of adolescents. Provide specific textual support from at least two of the texts in your response.