What is the central theme of "The New Kid"?

• Hard work leads to success.

• Small acts of kindness can lead to friendship.

• School can be a difficult place.

• Being the best student is important.

Which event in the story BEST supports the theme?

• Liam moves to a new town and feels uncomfortable.

• Liam sits alone at lunch, feeling left out.

• Liam helps Maya pick up her books, and she invites him to lunch.

• Liam tells jokes at Maya’s table.

What lesson does Liam learn by the end of the story?

• Moving to a new town is fun and exciting.

• Helping others can create meaningful connections.

• Being alone is better than trying to make new friends.

• Popularity is the most important part of school life.

How does Liam’s character change from the beginning to the end of the story? Use evidence from the text to support your answer. Write at least three sentences explaining your answer.

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Analysis

If Liam had not helped Maya, how might the theme of the story be different?

• He would have still made friends easily.

• He might have remained lonely and struggled to fit in.

• Maya would have ignored him, but others would have invited him.

• The story would have focused on a different theme about sports.

True or False: The story suggests that kindness can help people feel included.

• True

• False