Name ________________________________ Date: _____________

Speak

Pages 141 – 168: “Exterminators” through “ Real Spring”

1. Explain the debate over the name of the school mascot.

2. What does Melinda learn about Rachel? How does she react? What does she finally do?

3. What dos Melinda write her extra credit report about? Explain why she does or does not improve her grade. Explain how you feel about the teacher’s actions.

4. What happens when Andy Evans finds Melinda alone in the art room? What would have happened if Rachel ah d not appeared? What would you have done if you were Melinda?

5. What happens when Melinda is home sick? Why is this significant?

6. Explain the significance of Melinda’s work in the yard.

7. How do you feel about anonymous notes?

Pages 168 – 198: “Fault!” through “Final Cut”

1. What does Melinda write on the bathroom wall? Why is this significant?

2. Why does Heather come to Melinda’s house? What is the result? Why is this significant?

3. What steps has Melinda taken to improve her life?

4. What happens when Melinda talks to Rachel? Describe the interaction between Rachel and Melinda when Melinda tells her about the rape.

5. What does Ivy show Melinda in the girls’ bathroom? What does this tell you about Andy Evans?

6. How does Melinda compare her survival with the diseased tree?

7. Explain what happens in the final confrontation between Melinda and Andy.

8. What happens at the end? If you were Melinda, would you feel optimistic or pessimistic about your future? Explain why.