1. The Challenge by Gary Soto
Are boys better at sports than girls? Some people may think so, but think again as you read this story about Jose and Estella.

2. Attention Close or careful observing or listening.
Jose paid close attention to the teacher.
Source of photo:

3. Awkward Uncomfortable Meeting new people is sometimes awkward.
Source of photo:

4. Bragged Boasted The student bragged about her A+ on the test.
Source of clip art:
thepartytree.netfirms.com/facts_sheet.htm

5. Briskly Quickly, energetically She walked briskly home from school.
Source of photo: /

6. encourage To give support or confidence
I encouraged my friend to sign up for the play.
Source of clip art:
encouragement.html

7. Managed Succeeded in doing something with difficulty
They somehow managed to complete all of their homework before school was over!
Source of clip art:
dir.coolclips.com/Business/.../ Accomplishment

8. Notice To become aware of
I did not notice that it was about to rain, so I did not bring my umbrella.
Source of photo:

9. All About Gary Soto
Did you know that Gary Soto grew up in Fresno? Many of his stories take place here in the Central Valley.
Read more about Gary at this web site: