Freak the Mighty by Rodman PhilbrickSeventh Grade Language Arts
Lauren McNeela2017
Freak the Mighty
Introduction - Opinion SurveyG7
Diversity, Disability, and Friendship QuestionnaireDirections: Read each statement below. Decide if you agree or disagree with each statement. Circle your opinions and be prepared to discuss your ideas in class.
1. Everybody deserves to have Agree Disagreea friend.
2. When I think of the word Agree Disagree“disability,” I think of positivequalities and ideas.
3. I have met someone with a Agree Disagreephysical disability before.
4. School is always really easy Agree Disagreefor me; I never struggle.
5. Sometimes, differences in Agree Disagreepeople do not matter.
6. It requires a lot of courage to Agree Disagreestand up to bullies.
7. Everyone deserves a chance to Agree Disagreeprove they are capable andimportant.
Diversity in our World1. What qualities or abilities makes people unique?
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2. Explain how you think friends can work with each other to make up for each other’s shortcomings or weaknesses.
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Freak the MightyIntroduction of Novel
G7
Personal Dictionary AssignmentIn Freak the Mighty, one of the main characters shares his personal dictionary with the readers. Take a look at page 161 in your novel to see what “Freak’s Dictionary” looks like. As we read this novel together, you will be creating your own dictionary! Each time that we read together in class, you will be identifying one word that you are
unfamiliar with and will be adding it to your personal dictionary. By the time we are done reading, you will have created your own dictionary!
Each entry in your dictionary will include the following information. I will provide a template for you and we will construct a mini dictionary together with construction and computer paper.
Word: ____________________________________
Definition: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Line from the text: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
EXAMPLE: Word: ____________Unvanquished________________________
Definition: _Not conquered or overcome; not defeated by a stronger force______________________________________________________________
Location and line from the text: ____From Chapter 1, Page 1. Max explains, “The unvanquished truth, is how Freak would say it, and for a long time it was him who did the talking.”_______________________________
Word: ___________________ Chapter:_________ Page: ________
Definition: ____________________________________________
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Line from the text: ______________________________________
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Word: _________________ Chapter:_________ Page: _________
Definition: ____________________________________________
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Line from the text: ______________________________________
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Freak the MightyChapters 1-7
G7
Bell Ringers for Chapters 1-7Chapters 1:Take a look at the novel. Review the cover art, book reviews, book description, and the titles of some of the first few chapters. What are your first impressions of this book? What do you think this book is about? What do you think might interest you?Chapter 2:If your closest friend wrote a book describing some of your adventures together, how do you think he/she would describe you? What one event would definitely make into the book?Chapter 3:Have you ever met someone for the first time and you felt like they didn’t like you? Or have you ever met someone and didn’t really like them right away? What is that like when other’s might be rude, mean, or impersonal after just meeting you? Chapter 4:From what we have read so far, which character from Freak the Mighty do you identify with the most? Explain why. Dyslexia LessonRead the following paragraph:Grim comrs insidr and foe once he doesn’t tell me what a eat hole I’m living in, oe how it smrlls like a lockee eoom brcause I foegot to put my socks in the hampee. He sits on the rdgr fo the brd and folds his hands togrthre. I nrvre think about how old hr is brcausr he nrvre acts old, but tonight hr’s all whitr and brnt and his skin is seggyWhat was it like reading this? Did you get confused or frustrated at any point? This is what reading can be like for people who have dyslexia. How might these individuals feel on a daily basis because of their difficulty with reading?Chapter 5: Who do you look or act like from your family? How does it make you feel when others compare you to your family members? How might these comparisons affect your life and the development of your own unique identity?Chapter 6:
How might Kevin and Max’s differences and similarities be important to their friendship? Be specific about how certain differences and/or similarities would create a bond of friendship between the boys.
Chapter 7:
Discussion of Figurative Language Practice Worksheet that was assigned for homework the night before.
BellringerDate: _________________________
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CHARACTER: ___________________________________________
At the beginning of the novel, this character…
As the novel continues, this
character…
The events/characters/conflicts that changed this character are…
Freak the Mighty Conflict from Chapters 6-7 G7
Conflict Perspective Graphic Organizer Directions: Complete each section of the Conflict Perspective Graphic Organizer.
Main Conflict
Tony and His Gang’s Perspective
What They Want: What They Do: What They Say (List some quotes from the novel):
Freak and Max’s Perspective What They Want: What They Do: What They Say (List some quotes form the novel):
Freak the Mighty Conflict from Chapters 6-7 G7
Conflict Perspective Graphic Organizer Answer Key Directions: Complete each section of the Conflict Perspective Graphic Organizer.
Main Conflict Tony and his gang want to intimidate and possible hurt Freak and Max, because a cop car scared them away earlier. Tony and his gang enjoyed making fun of Freak and Max, but Freak had mouthed back to them thinking that Max could take them. Max had admitted he couldn’t take them. Now Max and Freak simply want to escape the wrath of Tony and his gang.
Tony and His Gang’s Perspective
What They Want: They want to feel mighty and powerful. They want others to be intimidated by them. They want to scare or hurt Freak and Max. What They Do: They spread out and attempt to surround Freak and Max. They chase after Freak and Max until they go into the pond and then they retreat to shore. Once they are on the pond bank, they pick up rocks and throw them at Freak and Max. They run when the cops approach. What They Say (List some quotes from the novel): “Over here! Tony! Got ‘em cornered!” “You! The Freak! You and that giant retard, I’ll cut you down to size. Dice and slice, baby! Freak show time!” “Help!” “Get some rocks, it’s target-practice time!” “Smaller rocks! Get me smaller rocks!”
Freak and Max’s Perspective What They Want: They want to enjoy the Fourth of July Celebration without anyone making fun of them or bothering them. They want to escape from Tony and his gang. What They Do: In the previous chapter, Freak vocally stood up for himself. Now they run through the crowd, Freak giving Max the directions. Eventually, they escape by running deep into the pond and Freak whistling to the circling cop car which scares away Tony and his gang. What They Say (List some quotes from the novel): “Cretin at two o’clock. Two more at three o’clock.” “They’ve locked on to us. Their trajectory is converging. Go to the left. Make it quick, if you want to live!” “Warp factor nine! More speed, o mighty beast!” “What do I do?” “Tell me what to do.” “Just give me a nanosecond to process the alternatives.” “Make it quick.” “Go! Go!” “Trust me, we’ll be okay!” “Warp speed!” “Head to the H2O!” “Whoa!...slow up, we did it.” “What do we do now?” “Wait. The cavalry is coming, can’t you hear the bugle?” “Officers! We request assistance!”
Freak the MightyChapters 1-7 Discussion Questions
Grade 7
Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7Chapters 1 Discussion Questions
1. What do we learn about the narrator in Chapter 1? Include details from the text.
Physical traits Personality traits Other details we learn
2. Who are Grim and Gram? Are they portrayed positively or negatively and how do you know? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. The narrator mentions another boy who he calls “Freak.” How does the narrator know this boy? And what do we learn about Freak? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. What do you think the narrator means when he says, “I never had a brain until Freak moved down the street”? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7
Chapter 2 Discussion Questions
1. The narrator gives readers a lovely description of Fair Gwen. How does he describe Fair Gwen when he sees her on moving day?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. The narrator recognizes the boy moving in as Freak from years ago. Explain what happens when Freak and the narrator interact on moving day. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Based on what you have read so far, what is your opinion on Kevin? Do you like his character? Why or why not? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7
Chapter 3 Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think Maxwell decided to help Freak get his “mechanical bird” out of the tree?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Describe or list 5 things that we learn about Freak through chapter three? Use some lines from the novel.
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Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7
Chapter 4 Discussion Questions
1. Freak tells a story about King Arthur, a wimpy orphan who removes a magic sword from a rock and becomes the next king. What could this story foreshadow about the future of Freak?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Readers learn something about Maxwell in chapter 4 that explains a great deal about his character. What is Maxwell struggling with on a daily basis and how does he feel about this issue? Include lines from the novel to support your answer. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7
Chapter 5 Discussion Questions
1. Max is invited to supper with Gwen and Kevin. How does Max initially feel about this invitation? Give the lines from the text that tell you how he feels.
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2. Everybody thinks that Max looks like his father. Why is this a problem for Max? How might this similarity in appearance impact the way people perceive Max?
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3. Why is Max crying at the end of chapter 5?
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Freak the MightyDiscussion Questions
G7Chapter 6 Discussion Questions
1. Who is the bully that we learn about in this chapter? What is he like?
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2. Describe the way that Freak handles the situation with the bully. What does he do and say? Give one word you would use to describe Freak during this encounter.
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Freak the MightyDisability in Poetry
G7
I'm Not Marking This Messby
Mark Chivers
I can see his face ready to blowhe shouts so the whole class will know'Sir, Sir I'm stuck, I need more time.'
'I told you what to do, don't step out of line'.I find it hard and embarrassing with him yelling
about my reading, writing, and spelling.'Hurry up, get on with it, I'm not marking this mess'
I say, 'I need more time, I'm doing my best'.He tells me little kids can do better than me
'I've seen better from my daughter, she's only three.’where's your full stops and capital letters?now go and sit down until you do better.
It's hard to do my work I findI never rest, it's always on my mindthen I get frustrated, rude and angrybecause he doesn't understand me.
© 'The Inner Hurt' 1996
Name: ______________________ Freak the MightyDisability in Poetry
G7“I’m Not Marking This Mess” Discussion Questions
Directions: Please answer the following questions in the lines provided. All students must complete this worksheet. When it is time to share, each table will be responsible
for sharing their answer for one question with the whole class.
1. How does the teacher respond to the student’s performance and behavior in class? What does the teacher do and say? Use lines from the poem to justify your response.
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2. How does the student feel when his teacher doesn’t understand him? Use lines from the poem to justify your response.
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3. Explain the significance of the title. In other words, what does the title mean in relation to the story?
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4. What advice would you give this student in regards to his struggle and why?
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Freak the MightyChapters 1-7
G7Chapter Six Simile and Metaphor Practice
Directions: Read the following statements and determine whether the type of figurative language used in the statement is a simile or a metaphor. Write the type of figurative language, the meaning of the figurative language, and where the figurative language is specifically in the text in appropriate spaces. Underline the figurative language in your text as you complete this worksheet.
Statement Simile or Metaphor?
Meaning Page Number in the Text
1. Beer is poison.
2. Tony’s breathe smelt like a dead animal.
3. According to Freak, Tony and his friends were cretins.
4. The grand finale sounded like World War III.
5. Tony’s teeth were as sharp as vampire teeth.
6.Fireworks exploded like pink flowers in the sky.
Freak the MightyChapters 1-7
G7Chapter Six Simile and Metaphor Practice
Directions: Read the following statements and determine whether the type of figurative language used in the statement is a simile or a metaphor. Write the type of figurative language, the meaning of the figurative language, and where the figurative language is specifically in the text in appropriate spaces. Underline the figurative language in your text as you complete this worksheet.
Statement Simile or Metaphor?
Meaning Page Number in the Text
1. Beer is poison. Metaphor Beer is unhealthy, bad for you, and can be deadly.
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2. Tony’s breathe smelt like a dead animal. Simile
Tony’s breather smelt gross, nasty, and repulsive
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3. According to Freak, Tony and his friends were cretins.
MetaphorTony and his friends were idiots
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4. The grand finale sounded like World War III.
SimileThe boom of the fireworks was so loud that is sounded like guns and war.
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5. Tony’s teeth were as sharp as vampire teeth. Simile
Tony’s teeth were very sharp and pointed.
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6.Fireworks exploded like pink flowers in the sky.
SimileThe fireworks burst in a way that looks like beautiful flowers.
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Freak the Mighty Chapters 1-7
G7
Story Map
Setting
Major Conflicts
1. 2. 3.
4. 5. 6.
7. 8. 9.
Name: ________________________________________ Freak the Mighty Chapters 1-7
G7
Different
Different
Same
Do you think the boys’ similarities are more important or their differences? Why?
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Name ________________________ Vocabulary NotesDate ____________ Period _______ G7
Freak the Mightyby Rodman Philbrick
Vocabulary Notes for Chapters 1-71. The bowling bowl made a thud as the young man roughly released it onto the lane. POS: ___________ Definition: _______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
2. The small bird flitted through the trees, searching for berries to eat. POS: ___________ Definition: ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
3. Based on the man’s messy hair and shabby demeanor, I figured he didn’t take very good care of himself. POS: ___________ Definition: ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
4. Many people have postulated that ghosts are real although some of these people have never ever seen one with their own eyes. POS: ___________ Definition: ___________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
5. All the local fire engines raced out of their houses and converged at the location of the enormous fire. POS: ___________ Definition: _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
Name _______ANSWER KEY___________ Vocabulary NotesDate ____________ Period _______ G7
Freak the Mightyby Rodman Philbrick
Vocabulary Notes for Chapters 1-7
1. The bowling bowl made a thud as the young man roughly released it onto the lane. POS: ___Noun________ Definition: _______ a dull, heavy sound, such as that made by an object falling to the ground ______________________________________________
2. The small bird flitted through the trees, searching for berries to eat. POS: ____Verb_______ Definition: ___to move swiftly and lightly________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
3. Based on the man’s messy hair and shabby demeanor, I figured he didn’t take very good care of himself. POS: ____Noun_________ Definition: ____Outward behavior or appearance; manner or attitude___________ ________________________________________________________________
4. Many people have postulated that ghosts are real although some of these people have never ever seen one with their own eyes.
POS: ___Verb________ Definition: ________to assume without proof; to claim ____________________ _ 5. All the local fire engines raced out of their houses and converged at the location of the enormous fire. POS: ___Verb________ Definition: ___ to come together from different directions so as eventually to meet _______________________________________________________________
Name ________________________ Freak the Mighty by Rodman PhilbrickDate ___________ Period ________ Vocabulary Study- G7
Vocabulary StudyThud Flit Demeanor Postulate
Converge
Part IDirections: Write the word from the box that best completes each sentence.
1. The two walking paths will soon ___________________ at a meeting point near the center of the forest.
2. Many scientists have _________________________ that the human brain has powers and abilities that people have never even utilized before.
3. The little girl _________________ around the room, dancing like a graceful ballerina.
4. Criminals have very intimating ___________________. They look mean and aggressive so people do not try to mess with them.
5. Since toddlers are not experts at walking, they often lose their balance and come crashing to the ground with a __________________.
Part IIDirections: Underline the word or phrase in each group that is closest in meaning to the boldfaced word.
1. Convergea. to separate b. to meet c. to travel d. to crash
2. Flit a. to move slowly b. to move gracefully c. to move cautiously d. to move heavily
3. Demeanora. Manner b. thoughts c. ideas d. pace
4. Postulate a. to know b. to ask c. to assume d. to create
Name ________________________ Freak the Mighty by Rodman PhilbrickDate ___________ Period ________ Vocabulary Study- G7
Vocabulary StudyThud Flit Demeanor Postulate
Converge
Part IDirections: Write the word from the box that best completes each sentence.
2. The two walking paths will soon _____converge__________ at a meeting point near the center of the forest.
3. Many scientists have _______postulated______________ that the human brain has powers and abilities that people have never even utilized before.
4. The little girl ___flitted___________ around the room, dancing like a graceful ballerina.
5. Criminals have very intimating _______demeanors________. They look mean and aggressive so people do not try to mess with them.
6. Since toddlers are not experts at walking, they often lose their balance and come crashing to the ground with a _____thud__________.
Part IIDirections: Underline the word or phrase in each group that is closest in meaning to the boldfaced word.
2. Convergea. to separate b. to meet c. to travel d. to crash
3. Flit a. to move slowly b. to move gracefully c. to move cautiously d. to move heavily
4. DemeanorManner b. thoughts c. ideas d. pace
5. Postulate a. to know b. to ask c. to assume d. to create
Freak the Mighty
Chapters 8-13G7
Chapters 8-13 Bellringers
Chapter 8 and 9
A student who wears leg braces recently started attending your school. Every step the student takes makes noise. Another new student who does not have leg braces also started attending school. Your teacher informs you that you must select one of them with whom to work on a class project. Who do you choose? Why?
Chapter 10
Take out Chapter 8 Journal Response. We will turn to a partner and share our responses. Then we will talk about them as a whole class.
Chapter 11 and 12
Predict what you think will happen next with Iggy and Loretta Lee. Will Kevin and Max ever see them again? How might Iggy and Loretta Lee be involved in the remainder of the novel?
Chapter 13
What makes someone a good friend? Write a paragraph explaining what qualities a good friend has. Do you think that Max and Freak are good friends to one another?
BellringerDate: _________________________
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Chapter 8 Journal ResponseChapter 8 concludes with Freak explaining, “Dinosaurs had brains the size of peanuts
and they ruled the earth for a hundred million years.” Thinking about this quote, answer the following question with a thoughtful response.
“Do you need a large brain or knowledge to be powerful? Or is someone powerful if they are strong and fierce? Explain which you think is most important and why.
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Freak the Mighty
Chapter 10 Homework Headline
G7
Chapter 10 News HeadlineExtra! Extra! Read all about it. Freak and Max go on some pretty news-worthy adventures.
Write a short, one sentence headline that summarizes a major event that happens in Chapter 10. Then, write a 2-3 sentence description that explains your headline. This headline and
description should be completed on a piece of loose-leaf paper and must be turned in during class the next day.
Ex: Friendly Neighbor Boy Helps Crippled Child Get Toy
Max, a local resident, helps Kevin, a small crippled boy, recover a lost toy. After witnessing Kevin struggling to get his mechanical bird from a tree, Max grabs the toy for him. Max’s kind
action was greatly appreciated by Kevin and these boys soon became friends.
Freak the Mighty
Chapter 10 Homework Headline
G7
Chapter 10 News HeadlineExtra! Extra! Read all about it. Freak and Max go on some pretty news-worthy adventures.
Write a short, one sentence headline that summarizes a major event that happens in Chapter 10. Then, write a 2-3 sentence description that explains your headline. This headline and
description should be completed on a piece of loose-leaf paper and must be turned in during class the next day.
Ex: Friendly Neighbor Boy Helps Crippled Child Get Toy
Max, a local resident, helps Kevin, a small crippled boy, recover a lost toy. After witnessing Kevin struggling to get his mechanical bird from a tree, Max grabs the toy for him. Max’s kind
action was greatly appreciated by Kevin and these boys soon became friends.
Chapter 11 Journal ResponseIn Chapter 11, Max and Freak venture into the “New Testaments.” Max describes this area of town and even shares Gram’s opinion of the place. Skim the chapter again and
answer the following response question.
How does the setting of the New Tenements affect the mood of the novel? Think about how the characters feel when they are in this area and how the setting makes you, the
reader, feel.
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Name: ____________________________ Freak the Mighty
Period: ________ Date: _________ Chapters 8-13
G7
_____/32
Part I – Short Answer/Short Response ____/8How does Max feel about participating in class when he is at school? Why does he feel this way? (3)____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 12 has a scene in which Freak is sitting on Max’s shoulders in school with the entire class shouting “Freak the Mighty.” Max says “I’m standing there with Freak high above me and it feels right, it makes me feel strong and smart” (78). In 5-6 sentences, explain why this moment is such an important moment in both boys’ lives. Why does this moment make Max feel “right”? (5)
Part II – Multiple Choice ____/12Please circle the best response for each of the following questions. Each question is worth 2 points.
1) What of the following is the LEAST LIKELY reason that Grim started calling Max “son”?
a. Grim was proud of Max for saving Freakb. Grim realized that Max isn’t like his father, so he wasn’t ashamed to
call him “son.”c. Grim was proud of Max for beating up Tony D. d. Max was acting very polite so Grim offered him more respect by
calling him “son.”
2) How does Loretta Lee know about Kevin?a. Max’s dad always talked about Kevin and Max.b. She knows the Fair Gwen.c. She used to watch Kevin in daycare.d. Her son used to go to school with Kevin.
3) What does Kevin think about his father?a. He is glad he is not around.b. He doesn’t want to know anything about himc. He misses him a lot.
d. He thinks he is awesome because he is a magician.
4) Why does Max not like to ask Freak too many questions? a. Max says he annoys Freak when he asks questions.b. Freak thinks he sounds dumb.c. He doesn’t want Freak to pull out his dictionary. d. Freak gets mad when Max doesn’t know anything.
5) Maxwell tells us that he is able to move on to 8th grade this year becausea. His 7th grade teachers didn’t want to deal with him anymore.b. Freak helped him complete his homework and study for tests.c. Freak bribed the principal of the school.d. Max’s grandparents talked to the school to have him moved up.
6) Why does Max get called down to the principal’s office alone?a. To talk about his father.b. To tell him that Grim has passed away.c. To inform him that he is returning to L.D. classes.d. To ask him to help Freak walk home after school.
Part III – Vocabulary ____/12Please read the following sentences. Circle the answer that correctly defines the underlined word in each sentence. Each question is worth two points.
1. She walked into class with her head hanging low, looking rather grim.a. Anxious and nervousb. Gloomy and sadc. Joyful and happyd. Scared and fearful
2. I divulged the news to my parents that I was failing Math; they were not happy.
a. To hand outb. To askc. To shoutd. To reveal
3. What does evasive mean?a. Done to avoid or escapeb. Done to scare or frighten someonec. Done to eliminate or destroyd. Done to make someone proud
4. If somebody is feeling sentimental, they are feeling…a. Frustratedb. Angryc. Tired
d. EmotionalIn the following spaces provided, please write down any two of the vocabulary words that you included in your dictionary entries for Chapters 8-13. Please write down the word that you found and the definition. Each “entry” is worth 2 points.
1. Word: _________________________________Definition: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Word: _________________________________Definition: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Freak the Mighty
Chapters 8-13 Discussion Questions
Grade 7
Freak the Mighty
Discussion Questions
G7
Chapter 8 Discussion Questions
1. Why does Grim suddenly start calling Max, “son?” ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Even though Freak is disabled, he has an exceptionally positive, energetic personality. What lesson could Freak teach you about life? Please write a theme statement and use evidence from the text to support your idea. -____________________________________________________________________
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Chapter 9 Discussion Question
1. Where does Freak take Max during their adventure? Why is this place important to Freak?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 10 Summary
Word BankRetrieval Device Anxious Treasure Hunt Sewer
Cricket Dirt Loretta Lee ImpatientWindow
In Chapter 10, Freak pops up on the side of Max’s bed and scares him! He wants Max to go on a ___________________with him. He says that their treasure is in the underground, specifically in a ___________________. Freak is not sure what exactly this treasure is, but he wants them to retrieve it. In order to be successful, he says, they must go at three in the morning and wear all black clothes. Max agrees and as he is waiting through the night, he is feeling very ___________________ and _________________________ because he wants to start the quest. He is even concerned that Freak is making this quest up. Max becomes agitated because a tiny _____________________ is chirping as he is trying to fall asleep!
At 2:30 a.m., Max gets out of bed and leaves his basement to wait for Freak under his _______________________. Freak throws him a black shirt, but Max realizes it is his mom’s blouse, so he refuses to wear it. Instead, he rolls around in __________________ to disguise himself. Freak looks like Darth Vader because he
is wearing a costume. They creep down the block until they arrive at the storm drain. They cannot remove the grate with their bare hands, so Freak takes out his ___________________________ so they can pull the object out of the drain. They are successful and they retrieve a purse, one that Tony D’s goons shoved in the drain. The wallet inside contains no money but it has an ID that belongs to __________________________.
Chapter 11 Discussion Questions
1. The boys decide to return the lost ID to Loretta Lee. When they meet her, they find out that she is a rather unpleasant woman. Describe Loretta Lee. ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
2. This is the first time we hear any mention of Freak’s father. What does Loretta Lee say about Freak’s dad? Why is he no longer with the family? Infer how you think Freak may feel about the absence of his father.
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Chapter 12 Summary, Predictions, and Questions
Please read Chapter 12 for homework and fill in the following information.
Summary of the chapter:
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Make some predictions as to what will happen next:
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What is one question you have about your reading or the novel in general?
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Freak the Mighty
Chapters 8-13 Discussion Questions
Grade 7
Freak the Mighty
Discussion Questions
G7
Chapter 8 Discussion Questions
3. Why does Grim suddenly start calling Max “son?”
Max begins acting very polite and saying things like “Thank you, sir” and “Thanks for the towel, Gram. And the ice cream. Could I have sugar in the coffee?” Grim is likely surprised at this transformation and is pleased that his grandson if becoming more refined. He also may be feeling this way towards Max because Grim is proud that Max “saved” Freak.
4. Even though Freak is disabled, he has an exceptionally positive, energetic personality. What lesson could Freak teach you about life? Please write a theme statement and use evidence from the text to support your idea.
We can’t let our shortcomings and weaknesses define us and bring us down in life. Freak, although physically disabled, has a bright mind and uses it to his advantage. He is happy that he is able to explore the world with his mind even if it isn’t as easy for him to do that physically. He also never conveys his disability as a weakness, nor does he ever make Max feel inferior. Freak has an appreciation for the individual and doesn’t let shortcomings define a person.
Chapter 9 Discussion Question
2. Where does Freak take Max during their adventure? Why is this place important to Freak?Freak takes Max on a long journey and they finally end up outside of a hospital. He takes him to the building that says “Medical Research” and Freak shares that he has been in there before. This hospital is important to Freak because Freak says, “I will enter that lab and become the first bionically improved human” (p 51). He says he will receive a whole new body that is his size. Freak is very excited about this and feels like this place is important to him because of the experiments they will perform on him. We can infer that he thinks it is cool to be built like a robot and that maybe he is even excited to leave his crippled body behind.
Chapter 10 Discussion Questions
In Chapter 10, Freak pops up on the side of Max’s bed and scares him! He wants Max to go on a ____treasure hunt ___________ with him. He says that their treasure is in the underground, specifically in a ____ sewer __________. Freak is not sure what exactly this treasure is, but he wants them to retrieve it. In order to be successful, he says, they must go at three in the morning and wear all black clothes. Max agrees and as he is waiting through the night, he is feeling very ____ anxious ____________ and _________ impatient _______________ because he wants to start the quest. He is even concerned that Freak is making this quest up. Max becomes agitated because a tiny __cricket___________ is chirping as he is trying to fall asleep!
At 2:30 a.m., Max gets out of bed and leaves his basement to wait for Freak under his ____window___________________. Freak throws him a black shirt, but Max realizes it is his mom’s blouse, so he refuses to wear it. Instead, he rolls around in ______dirt____________ to disguise himself. Freak looks like Darth Vader because he is wearing a costume. They creep down the block until they arrive at the
storm drain. They cannot remove the grate with their bare hands, so Freak takes out his __________retrieval device_________________ so they can pull the object out of the drain. They are successful and they retrieve a purse, one that Tony D’s goons shoved in the drain. The wallet inside contains no money but it has an ID that belongs to _______Loretta Lee___________________.
Chapter 11 Discussion Questions
3. The boys decide to return the lost ID to Loretta Lee. When they meet her, they find out that she is a rather unpleasant woman. Describe Loretta Lee. ___She is scrawny and has yellow hair_______________________________ ___________She has small, hard eyes and blurry red lips________________ _________She is wearing a tattered old bathrobe______________________ ________She smokes cigarettes_____________________________________ ___She is married to Iggy Lee, the boss of a bad-news motorcycle gang_____ ______________________________________________________________
4. This is the first time we hear any mention of Freak’s father. What does Loretta Lee say about Freak’s dad? Why is he no longer with the family? Infer how you think Freak may feel about the absence of his father.
Loretta says that Freak’s dad is a magician, meaning “as soon as he heard the magic words ‘birth defect,’ he disappeared” (71). So we know that Freak’s dad left him and Gwen when he found out Freak was going to be disabled/crippled. We can infer that Freak does not typically talk about his father because he seems happy with his mother. We can infer, based on his attitude and actions, that Freak is not too devastated that his dad is not around. We can also infer that Freak doesn’t even know his dad if he left before Freak was born or shortly after he was born.
Name _____________ __________ Vocabulary Notes Date ____________ Period _______ Chapters 8-13 - G7
Freak the Mighty
by Rodman Philbrick
Vocabulary Notes for Chapters 8- 13
Read the sentences below. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the words. You may consult a dictionary if necessary. Once you read the sentences, determine the Part of Speech of each word and also match the words with their correct defi nitions below. Please write the word on the line by its correct defi nition.
1. Freak and Max had taken evasive action by choosing to run away f rom Tony and his gang
rather than trying to fi ght them off .
2. The young man looked rather grim as he realized his f avorite team was not going to win the World Series.
3. I warned her that she cannot divulge my secret to anyone; I would be so embarrassed if all of my classmates f ound out. 4. When mothers look at old pictures of their babies, they become exceptionally sentimental and will of ten cry.
1. Evasive (POS: __________)
2. Grim (POS: ____________)
3. Divulge (POS: _____________)
4. Sentimental (POS: ____________)
__________________having f eelings of tenderness; f eeling overly emotional __________________directed towards avoidance or escape; done to avoid harm or accident __________________to make known, to reveal, to tell
__________________ unpleasant to see or think about; causing f eelings of sadness, gloom, or worry; having a very serious appearance or manner
Name ____Answer Key __________ Vocabulary Notes Date ____________ Period _______ Chapters 8-13 - G7
Freak the Mighty
by Rodman Philbrick
Vocabulary Notes for Chapters 8- 13
Read the sentences below. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the words. You may consult a dictionary if necessary. Once you read the sentences, determine the Part of Speech of each word and also match the words with their correct defi nitions below. Please write the word on the line by its correct defi nition.
1. Freak and Max had taken evasive action by choosing to run away f rom Tony and his gang
rather than trying to fi ght them off .
2. The young man looked rather grim as he realized his f avorite team was not going to win the World Series.
3. I warned her that she cannot divulge my secret to anyone; I would be so embarrassed if all of my classmates f ound out. 4. When mothers look at old pictures of their babies, they become exceptionally sentimental and will of ten cry.
1. Evasive (POS: __Adjective_____)
2. Grim (POS: ___Adjective_______)
3. Divulge (POS: ____Verb________)
4. Sentimental (POS: ___Adjective___)
____Sentimental________having f eelings of tenderness; f eeling overly emotional ____Evasive__________directed towards avoidance or escape; done to avoid harm or accident ____Divulge___________to make known, to reveal, to tell
____Grim___________ unpleasant to see or think about; causing f eelings of sadness, gloom, or worry; having a very serious appearance or manner
Name ________________________ Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick
Date ___________ Period ________ Vocabulary Study- Chapters 8-13G7
Vocabulary StudySentimental Divulge Evasive Grim
Part IDirections: Write the word from the box that best completes each sentence.
3. After finding out that she was moving, Caroline became very ______________. She worried that she would no longer see her old friends and classmates.
4. Since Billy was a new driver, his parents made the __________________choice to only let him drive with a parent in the car so he did not get into any accidents on his own.
5. I am a _____________________ fool. I can never seem to watch enough of those classic, old family videos from my childhood.
6. I must _____________________the truth to my parents even though I was told not to tattle. They will appreciate knowing that my brother is the one who broke their prized vase.
7. If you are a doctor in the trauma unit, it is better if you are not _______________________________ so you do not become attached to any of your patients.
8. The dark nights and freezing temperatures indicate that the _______________ season of winter is quickly approaching.
Part IIDirections: Underline the word or phrase in each group that is closest in meaning to the boldfaced word.
3. Divulgea. to hide b. to remember c. to reveal d. to introduce
4. Grima. Gloomy b. Perky c. Joyful d. Sleepy
5. Sentimentala. Angry b. Sad c. Motivated d. Emotional
Freak the MightyChapters 14-20
G7
BellringerDate: _________________________
Response: ________________________________________________________________________
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Date: _________________________
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Date: _________________________
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Response: ________________________________________________________________________
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Freak the MightyVocabulary Notes for Chapters 14-20
Read the sentences below. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the words. You may consult a dictionary if necessary. Once you read the sentences, write down the Part of Speech and the definition.
1. Dysfunctional – The toddler was screaming and throwing toys across the room; he was acting in a very dysfunctional manner.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Skittering - Rebecca skittered down the stairs Christmas morning, eager to open her presents.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Illiterate – Since he spent his whole life in slavery and never went to school, the boy was illiterate; he couldn’t even write his own name.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Corrosive - The corrosive substance started to burn through the table. POS: __________ Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
5. Deprive - It is unfair to deprive American citizens of their right to free speech.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 14 – “Cross My Heart and Hope to Die”
Annotate the TextUnderline Kevin’s response when Max asks him, “How come you can’t just stay like you are?”
Highlight Max’s mom’s name
At the end of the chapter, write how you would feel if you were Max and why
Reading Questions1. During what time of year is the story taking place?
2. What are Grim and Gram arguing about? What is Gram’s opinion regarding the problem and what is Grim’s opinion?
3. How can you tell that Grim is really stressed?
4. What are the conditions of the parole that Grim speaks of?
5. What promise does Max make to Grim?
Chapter 15 – “What Came Down the Chimney”Setting: Grim and Gram’s house on Christmas Eve
What are the characters’ actions when they are in this
place?
What details from the novel tell you how this place looks?
How does the setting impact the overall mood of this chapter? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 15 Questions – “What Came Down the Chimney”
1. Describe the box that Freak wrapped Max’s present in and draw an image of it.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
How do the characters feel while they are in this place?
2. What did Freak get Max for Christmas? Highlight the line in your text where Max tells how he feels about this gift.
________________________________________________________________________________
3. What came down the chimney?________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 16 – “A Chip off the Old Block”What is one word you would use to describe Max’s feelings in this chapter?
What evidence from the text makes you think that? Highlight and write down some lines that directly tell or that help you infer Max’s feelings.
1. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Chapter 17 – “By All That’s Holy”Annotate the Text
Underline any time Killer Kane mentions Grim and Gram
Highlight how Killer Kane describes his time in prison
After finishing the chapter, write down in your text whether you think Killer Kane is going to hurt Max or not.
Questions1. Where do Max and his father stay on Christmas Eve? Describe the place.
2. How is Max treated by his father? What does this treatment of Max indicate to you about Killer Kane? Explain.
3. What does Max’s dad swear on to prove he isn’t lying?
4. What crime was Killer Kane accused of that he spent time in prison? Do you think this is new information for Max or did he already know this? Explain how you know.
Chapter 17 Journal ResponsePlease answer the following question in a thoughtful, two paragraph response. Make sure
to include details and lines from the text to support your writing.Kenny tells Max that he “never killed anybody,” that “those people. . . stole years away
from me,” and that a great injustice was done to him. Do you believe him? What evidence from the text supports your position? Or what happens in the story that makes
you think your answers is right?__________________________________________________________________________________________
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Chapter 18 – “Never Trust a Cripple”
Cause
CauseEffect
Effect
Impact
Impact
Cause Effect
Impact
CauseEffect
Impact
Which cause and effect relationship stands out the most to you in this chapter? Why do you think it is so important? Write you answer in the space provided.
Chapter 19 – “Into the Black Down Under”What does Loretta Lee say “ain’t right”? What does this indicate about her character?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What happens at the end of Chapter 19? Did you expect something like this to occur?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chapter 20 – “Freak the Mighty Strikes Again”Explain the memory that Max shares with his father. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
How are you feeling as the reader at the conclusion of this chapter?
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Name _____________ __________ Vocabulary NotesDate ____________ Period _______ Chapters 8-13 - G7
Freak the MightyVocabulary Notes for Chapters 14-20
Read the sentences below. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the words. You may consult a dictionary if necessary. Once you read the sentences, write down the Part of Speech and the definition.
1. Dysfunctional – The toddler was screaming and throwing toys across the room; he was acting in a very dysfunctional manner.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Skittering - Rebecca skittered down the stairs Christmas morning, eager to open her presents.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Illiterate – Since he spent his whole life in slavery and never went to school, the boy was illiterate; he couldn’t even write his own name.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Corrosive - The corrosive substance started to burn through the table. POS: __________ Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
5. Deprive - It is unfair to deprive American citizens of their right to free speech.
POS: __________Definition: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name ______Answer Key_________ Vocabulary NotesDate ____________ Period _______ Chapters 8-13 - G7
Freak the Mightyby Rodman Philbrick
Vocabulary Notes for Chapters 14-20Read the sentences below. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the words. You may consult a dictionary if necessary. Once you read the sentences, write down the Part of Speech and the definition.
1. Dysfunctional – The toddler was screaming and throwing toys across the room; he was acting in a very dysfunctional manner.
POS: __Adjective________Definition: not operating normally or properly; not living or acting according to normal social standards
2. Skittered – Rebecca skittered down the stairs Christmas morning, eager to open her presents.
POS: __Verb________Definition: to move lightly and quickly
3. Illiterate - Since he spent his whole life in slavery and never went to school, the boy was illiterate; he couldn’t even write his own name.
POS: __Adj________Definition: unable to read or write
4. Corrosive - The corrosive substance started to burn through the table. POS: _Adj____ Definition: causing something to fall apart or break down; damaging and destructive
5. Deprive – It is unfair to deprive American citizens of their right to free speech.
POS: ____Verb______Definition: to deny the possession or use of something
Name ________________________ Freak the Mighty
Date ____________ Periods _______ Vocabulary Notes—G7
Vocabulary MapsWord: Part of Speech:
Sentence:
Definition:
One Synonym:
One Antonym:
Word: Part of Speech:
Sentence:
Definition:
One Synonym:
One Antonym:
Word: Part of Speech:
Sentence:
Definition:
One Synonym:
One Antonym:
Word:
Part of Speech:
Sentence:
Definition:
One Synonym:
One Antonym:
Word: Part of Speech:
Sentence:
Definition:
One Synonym:
One Antonym:
Name: ________________________________ Freak the Mighty
Period: ______________ Date: _______________ Chapters 14-20 Test
_______/26
Part I – Freak the Mighty _____/8
1. Explain the following quote from Freak the Mighty. Explain who says the quote, what is happening in the story when this character says it, and what the quote means. Your answer should be thoughtful, well-written, free of spelling and grammar errors, and about a paragraph in length. (4 points)
“The cold doesn’t matter. Nothing does, really, not Grim and Gram or the old stars in the sky, or Freak and the Fair Gwen. They’re all just make believe, this dream I was having for a long time.”
2. What does Freak get Max for Christmas? (2 points) ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. How does Freak save Max? (2 points)a. Freak shoots Kenny with a gunb. Freak throws sulfuric acid at Kennyc. Freak sprays curry powder and vinegar in Kenny’s eyesd. Freak strangles Kenny
Part II – Vocabulary _____/18
Complete the following sentences using one of the vocabulary words from the box. Make sure you change the endings to the proper tense and spell each word correctly. Spelling counts. Some words may be used more than once. (2 points each)
Deprive Corrosive Dysfunctional Illiterate Skittered
1. The ___________________________________cell phone keeps freezing every time I open an app. I can’t even make a phone call!
2. It is unjust to _______________________people of their natural rights as citizens.
3. The container held a ___________________________ material, one that the students are forbidden to touch for fear of injury.
4. It is unfortunate that education is not accessible everywhere and that some people go their whole lives being _____________________________.
5. The child _____________________________down the stairs to greet her mom at the door after work.
6. As punishment for disobeying classroom rules, my teacher ____________________________ me of the opportunity to participate in the game we were playing during class.
7. Water can be __________________________ to rock, causing bits and pieces to slowly chip off of larger landforms.
Synonyms and Antonyms - Please choose the synonym or antonym that best matches each underlined word. Make sure to read the questions carefully. (2 points each)
8. Which of the following is a synonym for skittered?
a. Skip b. Stomp c. Charge d. Flail
9. Which of the following is an antonym for corrosive?a. Destructive b. Damaging c. Gentle d. Chaotic
Freak the Mighty
Chapters 21-End
G7
Bellringer
Date: _________________________
Response: ________________________________________________________________________
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Date: _________________________
Response: ________________________________________________________________________
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Date: _________________________
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Date: _________________________
Response: ________________________________________________________________________
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Vocabulary Notes
1. Marvel – Witnessing the dog open the fridge and grab a can of soda for its owner was a marvel.
POS: _____________________Definition: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Synonym: _____________________________________Antonym:_____________________________________
2. Aberration - His bright blue eyes and golden blonde hair were an aberration from the dark eyes and hair of his parents and siblings.
POS: _____________________Definition: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Synonym: _____________________________________Antonym:_____________________________________
3. Dynamic – Young children are exceptionally dynamic; each year, month, or even each day, they are changing and developing in some way.
POS: _____________________Definition: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Synonym: _____________________________________Antonym:_____________________________________
4. Stern – The stern teacher filled all her students with fear the moment she looked their way.
POS: _____________________Definition: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Synonym: _____________________________________Antonym:_____________________________________
Vocabulary Notes
1. Marvel – Witnessing the dog open the fridge and grab a can of soda for its owner was a marvel.
POS: NounDefinition: a wonderful or astonishing person, event, or thingSynonym: wonder, miracle, sensationAntonym: expectation, act of normalcy
2. Aberration – His bright blue eyes and golden blonde hair were an aberration from the dark eyes and hair of his parents and siblings.
POS: NounDefinition: a departure from what is normal, expected, or ordinarySynonym: variation, irregularity, rarity, oddityAntonym: sameness, regularity, normality
3. Dynamic – Young children are exceptionally dynamic; each year, month, or even each day, they are changing and developing in some way.
POS: AdjectiveDefinition: a system, person, or process that is or has constant change, activity, or progressSynonym: Changing, livelyAntonym: inactive, lifeless, permanent
4. Stern – The stern teacher filled all her students with fear the moment she looked their way.
POS: AdjectiveDefinition: very serious, especially in an unfriendly way; expressing disapproval
or criticismSynonym: severe, harshAntonym: friendly, welcoming
Chapter 21 – “The Accident of Nature”Annotate
Underline what Max is asked to do if he wants to put his father in jail
Highlight the final sentence that Kenny Kane received
After reading the chapter, write why you think Max says, “Because it’s growing up that worries me.”
QuestionsWhy was it so important that Max be cooperative with the police, even though it took so long?
List all the charges that can be filed against Kenny Kane.
Think about how you judged Iggy and Loretta when we first met them in the novel. Has your opinion of them changed? How so?
Why does Gwen tell Freak he has to be “extra careful”?
Chapter 21 – “The Accident of Nature”Annotate
Underline what Max is asked to do if he wants to put his father in jail
Highlight the final sentence that Kenny Kane received
After reading the chapter, write why you think Max says, “Because it’s growing up that worries me.”
QuestionsWhy was it so important that Max be cooperative with the police, even though it took so long?
Max needs to be so cooperative because Grim told him that the police need to know everything they can. If Max gives them as much detail as possible, maybe Kenny can be locked up for good this time.
List all the charges that can be filed against Kenny Kane.
Kenny can be charged for being in violation of parole, being in violation of a restraining order, for abduction of a minor, and for two counts of attempted murder (Max and Loretta Lee).
Think about how you judged Iggy and Loretta when we first met them in the novel. Has your opinion of them changed? How so?
Answers will vary.
Why does Gwen tell Freak he has to be “extra careful”?
Gwen tells Freak to be extra careful because he has been having trouble breathing sometimes because of the way his insides are growing faster than his outsides. Freak now goes into the medical research facility more often now.
Chapter 22 – “Remembering Is Just An Invention of the Mind”Annotate
Underline what Freak says about remembering
Highlight what Freak is getting for his birthday
After reading the chapter, write how you think Max is feeling when he finds out Freak is ill
Discussion Questions1. What does Freak say about remembering? Write down the quote and explain what he
means in your own words.
2. Freak’s birthday is coming up. How old is he turning and what does he want?
3. Why is this birthday so special?
4. What are some clues in the text that foreshadow something strange is going on with Freak?
Chapter 22 – “Remembering Is Just An Invention of the Mind”
AnnotateUnderline what Freak says about remembering
Highlight what Freak is getting for his birthday
After reading the chapter, write how you think Max is feeling when he finds out Freak is ill
Discussion Questions1. What does Freak say about remembering? Write down the quote and explain what he means in
your own words.
Freak says, “It means that if you want to, you can remember anything, whether it happened or not.” Freak is saying that remembering is like using your imagination. He says, for example, that he can remember what it was like during the Ice Age, even though he wasn’t actually there. He also says that you don’t need a time machine if you know how to remember. Freak says memory is a powerful thing and it can help us to imagine anything and everything whether we’ve lived it or not.
2. Freak’s birthday is coming up. How old is he turning and what does he want?
Freak is turning thirteen. He asks the Fair Gwen if she could get him a ride on a real space shuttle – that doesn’t happen.
3. Why is this birthday so special?
This birthday is special because although it is Freak’s birthday, it is also the birthday of Freak the Mighty. Freak the Mighty is turning one!
4. What are some clues in the text that foreshadow something strange is going on with Freak?- His birthday party needs to be just a family affair because Freak can’t get overexcited. - Freak’s mom gets Freak a computer for his birthday, so if he misses school, he can still go to
class through the computer.- Gram and Fair Gwen lock eyes (secret code) when Gwen says, “Maybe he won’t have to stay
home.” - Freak hardly touches his supper/doesn’t have much of an appetite anymore- We know something is wrong because at the end of the chapter, he is wheezing, panting, and
his eyelids are flickering. They call an ambulance because he had a seizure.
Chapter 22 Journal ResponseOne of the ideas that Rodman Philbrick challenges over and over in this novel is the
reader’s idea of what it means to be intelligent. Instead, at this point in the novel, the author is really challenging the reader’s idea of what defines both physical and
emotional strength. Chapter 22 ends with Kevin losing a great deal of his physical strength.
Think about Max and Kevin. Which of these two characters is the strongest? Why do you believe this? What do you think the author is telling his readers about strength
based on these characters? __________________________________________________________________________________________
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Chapter 23 – “The Empty Book”Annotate
Underline when Freak tells us when he is coming home
Highlight the description Max gives us of Freak lying in the hospital bed.
After reading the chapter, write how you think Max is feeling when he finds out Freak is ill.
Discussion Questions1. Why do you think that Max decided to go to the hospital if he’s just going to sit
under a tree and not go inside?
2. What does Freak give Max when he visits him in the hospital? Why does he give him this?
Chapter 23 – “The Empty Book”Annotate
Underline when Freak tells us when he is coming home
Highlight the description Max gives us of Freak lying in the hospital bed.
After reading the chapter, write how you think Max is feeling when he finds out Freak is ill.
Discussion Questions1. Why do you think that Max decided to go to the hospital if he’s just going to sit
under a tree and not go inside? Max likely went to the hospital because he didn’t know what else to do. He tells us that he “can’t stand just sitting around.” He obviously cares about Kevin but he knows he isn’t supposed to be in the hospital room with Kevin. He wants to simply be at the premises because he doesn’t know what else to do. Max also goes to the hospital and sits outside with the ornithopter, hoping that if he keeps winding it and flying it around, Kevin will see it flittering around.
2. What does Freak give Max when he visits him in the hospital? Why does he give him this?
Freak gives Max an empty book. He tells Max that it is his job to fill it up with Freak the Mighty’s adventures. Freak says, “I was going to do it, but now it looks like I’ll be busy getting used to my new bionic body.” He wants Max to write it for them.
Chapter 24 – “The Return of Kicker”Annotate
Underline Max’s reaction to the news in chapter 24Highlight what we learn about Freak’s robot bodyWrite the following in the margins in your novel
1. How do you feel after reading this chapter? 2. Was this the ending you expected?
Chapter 25 – “What Loretta Said”1. Max is getting a lot of advice from Grim and Gram to help. What advice would
you give to Max to help him deal with his feelings?
2. What does Loretta say? Why are these few words so important to helping Max push forward?
Chapter 24 – “The Return of Kicker”Annotate
Underline Max’s reaction to the news in chapter 24Highlight what we learn about Freak’s robot body
Write the following in the margins in your novel1. How do you feel after reading this chapter? 2. Was this the ending you expected?
Chapter 25 – “What Loretta Said”1. Max is getting a lot of advice from Grim and Gram to help. What advice would
you give to Max to help him deal with his feelings?
Answers will vary.
2. What does Loretta say? Why are these few words so important to helping Max push forward?
Loretta asks Max what he’s been up to. He tells her “Nothing.” She says, “Nothing is a drag, kid. Think about it.” Although Loretta didn’t know Kevin well, her words were important because it shows Max that how he is coping isn’t what Kevin would have wanted. Kevin was an adventurous person and he wouldn’t want Max moping around after his death. He would want Freak the Mighty to live on and Max is the person through which that is possible.
Name: _________________________________________ Freak the Mighty Chapters 21-25
Period: _______________ Date: ____________________ Vocabulary Assessment
G7
______/26
Part I – Fill in the BlankDirections: Read the following sentences. Complete each sentence with the most appropriate word from the word box. Make sure to change words to the proper tense when needed. Some words will be used more than once. Spelling counts. (2 points each)
1. The mother’s ________________________expression frightened the child into behaving well at dinner.
2. Seasons in Illinois are exceptionally _____________________; it seems like every few months, the weather is so different.
3. That young girl on “Master Chef Junior” is only eleven and she can cook like a professional chef. Her talent is a true _________________________.
4. Freak’s growth and development is a(n) _________________________ from what is typical; he does not grow the same way as other children his age.
5. You would not want someone who is ______________________ to be welcoming guests at a hotel. He or she would scare people away!
6. It is a(n) ______________________ when people with disabilities are able to participate in sports. I am always amazed at their ability to overcome their challenges with such a positive attitude.
Part II – DefinitionsDirections: For each of the following words, please circle the definition that best fits the meaning of the word. (2 points each)
1. The dynamic charactera. Helpful and constructiveb. Main or most importantc. Developing or maturingd. Evil or villainous
2. Something that is marvel is….a. Something that happens every dayb. Something that causes you great stressc. Something that makes you feel scaredd. Something that amazes you
3. The stern professor is…a. Calm and relaxedb. Serious and uptightc. Warm and invitingd. Frightening and scary
Part III – Synonyms and Antonyms
Stern Dynamic Aberration Marvel
Directions: Circle the best synonym or antonym for each of the following words. (2 points each)
1. Marvel – Circle a synonym for the word marvela. Usualness b. Wonder c. Normality d. Talent
2. Aberration – Circle a synonym for the word aberrationa. Oddity b. Normality c. Surprise d. Regularity
3. Dynamic - Circle an antonym for the word dynamica. Changing b. Unproductive c. Developing d. Active
4. Stern – Circle an antonym for the word sterna. Serious b. Strict c. Friendly d. Grim
Character Perspectives Big Event:
Max’s Thoughts and Feelings Kevin’s Thought and Feelings
Max says: Kevin says:
I know/ can infer that Max feels: I know/ can infer that Kevin feels:
Character Perspectives Big Event:
Gwen’s Thoughts and Feelings Grim and Gram’s Thoughts and Feelings
Gwen says: Grim and Gram say:
I know/ can infer that Gwen feels: I know/ can infer that Grim and Gram feel:
Final Post-Reading Comprehension QuestionsFor those of you who didn’t have the novel spoiled, were you surprised by the ending? Was there any point in which you knew Kevin was going to die?
What does this novel ultimately teach us about disabilities?
What does this novel teach us about death?
After reading this novel, what comes to mind when you think of the word intelligence?
Why do you think Rodman Philbrick wrote this novel?
All the materials that we are reading for this unit have to do with friendship and relationships. Explain the various ways that this novel falls into the theme of this unit.
Freak the Mighty Theme TopicsWe have followed Max and Kevin on an incredible journey. Consider their journeys, challenges, experiences, and relationships and think about what the novel teaches
readers about life and human nature.
Below are some topics that are discussed in the novel. With your group, you will work with one of these topics and create a theme statement.
DisabilityFriendshipAcceptanceDeath/LossStrength
Imagination/MemoryOn a large sheet of construction paper, you and your group will write a theme
statement in the center. On the rest of your paper, you will identify important quotes and events from the novel that explain your theme statement. Make sure you are able
to explain what you have chosen when it is time to share with the class.
Freak the Mighty
G7
Symbolism in Freak the MightyA symbol is an action, object, person, etc. that represents a certain idea or quality. For
example, a lit candle is a symbol of hope. People may light candles to show hope for the future after a catastrophe happens or they lose a loved one. Roses are also symbols and
they often represent love. Symbols are all around us including in Freak the Mighty. Choose a symbol from the novel. Draw a picture of the symbol and explain what idea or
quality it may represent.1. Choose one of the following symbols:
a. Freak’s Dictionaryb. Freak’s ornithopter, or mechanical birdc. Max’s bedroom, or the down underd. The book Freak gives Max to tell their storye. Freak’s robot body
2. On the back side of this page, draw an image of the symbol.
3. Write a thoughtful response explaining the symbol, its importance to the story, and its importance in our own world. You should address the following questions in your response.
a. Where do you see this object in the novel and why is the physical object important in the novel?
b. What could this object symbolize and why is this important? For example, a rose could symbolize love. This symbolism is important because the rose then becomes something more than just a flower. It represents something beautiful in our world. And, people can show their love in ways other than through just words. Through the symbolism of a rose, people can have a living representation of the love they have for someone else; a lively reminder of the compassion that exists between two people.
Symbolism in Freak the Mighty
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Four adjectives to describe your character
Quote that shares important ideas,
feelings, or beliefs of the character
How the character has changed (how the
character was at the beginning and then how
he/she is now)Something that is important to the
character and why
Character
Map
**Make sure to draw and color the background
like a setting from the novel!
Character Map AssignmentOn the Character Map template:
For this assignment, you will be creating a character map for either Kevin or Max from Freak the Mighty. On a blank template that I provide for you, you will have to draw and write the following items on your character map:
1. Draw and Color your character as he is described in the novel (hair, face, clothes, etc.
2. Draw a background that matches one of the settings of the story3. Please see the template on the front of this sheet so you know what you
should include on each of the legs and arms
Typed on a separate sheet of paper:
Please answer and explain each of the following components on a separate sheet of paper, typed. The answers for these questions should match what you have included already on your character template.
1. Explain why you chose this particular character for your project.2. What four adjectives did you use to describe your character? Explain why you
chose each of them. 3. Explain the quote you chose and why this is important to understanding your
character.4. Describe the character’s change throughout the novel. How was the character in
the beginning and how is he/she now? What caused this change?5. What is something that you think is important to this character? Why is this
person, item, place, etc. important?
Please be sure to proofread your work before turning it in. It should include a proper heading, be typed, and be in 12 point Calibri font. Your typed response should be
about 5 paragraphs in total (one paragraph for each question.) Please come see me ahead of time if you require assistance in printing the assignment.
Name:_________________________ Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick
Date _________________ Period __________ Post-Reading Project--G7
Character Map RubricDetails in Writing – Written Component:
5 4 3 2 1 0
Student responses are thorough and very well-explained. Student fully answered each of the five questions included on the assignment sheet.
Student clearly used the text and knowledge of the character to support his/her choices and responses for the project. You went above and beyond!
Student responses are relatively thorough but may need a little more details or explanation. Student may not have included a response to one of the five questions.
Student used the text and knowledge of the character to support his/her choices and responses for the project.
Pretty good job.
Student responses need more details or explanation in certain areas. Student does not include a complete response to some of the questions on the assignment sheet.
Student needs more textual support and knowledge to support his/her choices and responses for the project.
You need to make improvements on quality effort.
Responses are brief and lack detail and clear explanations in various areas. Student fails to answer some of the questions on the assignment sheet.
Student responses lack textual support and student choices do not truly reflect the select character.
Responses have little to no detail; the assignment appears incomplete.
Student does not appear to have utilized the text to support his/her claims.
Student does not show understanding of the character.
Responses are incomplete and include no details. Student does not understand the novel or the character he/she chose at all.
Attractiveness – Visual Component:5 4 3 2 1 0
Character Map is extremely neat and includes NO pencil marks. Everything is nicely colored and easy to read and see.
Includes appropriate details that match the descriptions of the character from the novel.
Includes a detailed background to match a setting from the novel.
You went above and beyond!
Character Map is somewhat neat and well-colored. Some areas may not be easy to read or see.
Includes some appropriate details that match the description of the character from the novel.
Includes a background to match a setting from the novel.
Pretty good job.
Character Map is not fully colored or may be messy. It may include some pencil marks. The project could be neater in some areas.
Character drawing does to match the descriptions of the character from the text
Background may be unclear or irrelevant to the novel.
You need to make improvements on quality effort.
Character Map is not colored completely. Includes pencil marks and some parts may be very sloppy. It may be difficult to see or read.
Includes few details from story to support character drawing or setting chosen.
Character Map is not colored, neat, or easy to follow.
Includes very little to no details from the story to support character drawing or setting.
Did you create your Character Map with your eyes closed?
Grammar, Writing, and Formatting – Visual and Written Component:5 4 3 2 1 0
No spelling or grammar errors.
Student has proper heading, paragraphs are indented and paper is double-spaced.
1-2 spelling or grammar errors.
Student may lack either a proper heading, failed to indent paragraphs, or did not double space the paper.
3-4 spelling and grammar errors.
Student failed to follow two of the formatting requirements.
5-7 spelling and grammar errors.
Student failed to follow three of the formatting requirements
More than seven errors.
Student failed to follow formatting requirements.
Countless spelling and grammar errors.
Student needs to review the assignment sheet for formatting expectations.