Heartbeat

How does Dave react to the brief conversation he has with his dad:

"I don't fit into anything anymore," I said...

"What are you talking about? You look the same as always. You're still my little boy," my dad replied, putting me in a headlock and giving me a noogie. I glared at him.

• Dave feels happy because his father notices the changes he has been making.

• Dave feels annoyed because his father still treats him like he's a little kid, which he is trying to change.

• Dave feels sad because his father can't see the changes he has been making.

• Dave feels uncertain about his new changes and is realizing his father might be right.

Why was Dave trying to bulk up?

• He wanted to impress a girl.

• He wanted people to stop making fun of him.

• All of the above.

• He wanted to get thicker.

Why is Dave so skinny?

• He works out everyday.

• He is sick.

• He is dieting.

• He has a fast metabolism.

At first, how did Heartbeat try to resolve his inner conflict?

• He started to eat more calories and lifted weights.

• He talked to his parents and teachers about his struggles

Which words best describe Heartbeat as he tries to put on weight?

• dedicated yet discouraged

• excited and optimistic

In the beginning of the story, why does the narrator (Heartbeat) say "I felt like I was reborn."

• He discovered a way to look bigger

• He discovered a way to become popular

Why is the word artificially used in "I realized I had artificially outgrown my clothes"?

• Because he has not actually grown out of his clothes, he only appears to have done so.

• Because he wishes he had outgrown his clothes, but he actually hasn't.

"I suddenly realized what I really looked like at this party...All this because I hated my nickname?"

Why does the narrator ask this question?

• To show how Heartbeat was coming to realize how his actions were affecting him.

• To add imagery to the story

How does the setting at the party affect the plot?

• Heartbeat was extremely cold at the party, forcing himself to leave and not talk to Sarah.

• Because the room was so hot, he was forced to remove layers of clothing, which allowed him to realize how much better he felt without them.

What aspect of Dave’s personality affects the plot?

• He wants to fit in.

• He likes to work out.

• He likes to go to parties.

• He wants to be an athlete.