Exploring Themes and Characters in The Contender

What motivates Alfred to start training at Donatelli's gym in "The Contender"?

• He wants to impress his friends.

• He seeks a sense of purpose and direction.

• He is forced by his family.

• He wants to become famous quickly.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

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CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Which theme is represented by Alfred's struggle to balance his personal life and training?

• The importance of wealth.

• The conflict between good and evil.

• The journey of self-discovery.

• The power of friendship.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Summarize the key event that leads Alfred to realize the importance of discipline in his life.

• Alfred wins his first boxing match.

• Alfred gets into a fight with his best friend.

• Alfred is caught stealing and faces consequences.

• Alfred's coach gives him a motivational speech.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

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CCSS.RL.9-10.3

How does Alfred's relationship with his coach, Mr. Donatelli, develop throughout the story?

• It remains distant and formal.

• It becomes more like a father-son relationship.

• It turns into a rivalry.

• It becomes strained and hostile.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Interpret the significance of the dialogue where Alfred expresses doubt about his abilities to Mr. Donatelli.

• It shows Alfred's lack of confidence.

• It highlights Mr. Donatelli's harshness.

• It reveals Alfred's desire to quit.

• It demonstrates Mr. Donatelli's indifference.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What does the boxing ring symbolize for Alfred in the novel?

• A place of violence.

• A path to fame.

• A test of character and resilience.

• A source of income.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Analyze why Alfred decides to continue boxing despite the challenges he faces.

• He wants to prove his worth to others.

• He enjoys the physical aspect of the sport.

• He is determined to achieve personal growth.

• He has no other career options.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Identify the theme illustrated by Alfred's interactions with his friend James.

• The impact of peer pressure.

• The strength of family bonds.

• The struggle for redemption.

• The pursuit of happiness.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Compare Alfred's character development from the beginning to the end of the novel.

• He becomes more selfish and isolated.

• He grows more confident and self-aware.

• He becomes more dependent on others.

• He remains unchanged throughout.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

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CCSS.RL.9-10.3

What is the significance of the dialogue between Alfred and his Aunt Pearl regarding his future?

• It shows Aunt Pearl's disapproval of boxing.

• It highlights Alfred's uncertainty about his path.

• It reveals Aunt Pearl's indifference to Alfred's choices.

• It demonstrates Alfred's rebellion against authority.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3