Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who are the main characters of the book?
Who are the main characters of the book?
Philip Malloy, Miss Narwin, his parents, school administrators.
From what viewpoint is this book written?
From what viewpoint is this book written?
The story is told from the viewpoint of all the different characters.
Why are there incomplete sentences in the book?
Why are there incomplete sentences in the book?
Some parts are written in a diary format, others are conversations, some are interrupted sentences, and some show the speaker's tone.
What is the setting of the story?
What is the setting of the story?
What is the basic conflict of the story that the author is setting up?
What is the basic conflict of the story that the author is setting up?
What kind of teacher is Mr. Lunser?
What kind of teacher is Mr. Lunser?
Compare Mr. Lunser to Ms. Narwin.
Compare Mr. Lunser to Ms. Narwin.
What is Philip especially interested in during March?
What is Philip especially interested in during March?
What are the primary concerns of his father?
What are the primary concerns of his father?
What are the primary concerns of his mother?
What are the primary concerns of his mother?
Why does Philip call Allison?
Why does Philip call Allison?
What is the importance of the memo Philip receives from Dr. Joseph Palleni?
What is the importance of the memo Philip receives from Dr. Joseph Palleni?
How does Philip feel about this news?
How does Philip feel about this news?
How does Philip answer his English exam question four? What is his attitude and manner?
How does Philip answer his English exam question four? What is his attitude and manner?
What is your opinion of Miss Narwin's comment on Philip's exam paper?
What is your opinion of Miss Narwin's comment on Philip's exam paper?
What will Philip's winter term grade be and how will he react?
What will Philip's winter term grade be and how will he react?
What do you learn of Margaret Narwin from her application for a grant?
What do you learn of Margaret Narwin from her application for a grant?
What do you learn of the Harrison District from the memo in Chapter 5?
What do you learn of the Harrison District from the memo in Chapter 5?
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Study Notes
Main Characters
- Philip Malloy, a student aspiring to join the track team.
- Miss Narwin, Philip's strict English teacher.
- Mr. and Mrs. Malloy, Philip's parents with differing concerns.
- School administrators involved in educational decision-making.
Narrative Perspective
- The plot unfolds from multiple viewpoints, offering insights into various characters' thoughts and feelings.
Writing Style
- The narrative includes incomplete sentences to reflect natural speech patterns, diary entries, interruptions, and tone of voice.
Setting
- The story is set in the Harrison school district of Harrison, New Hampshire, a calm and quiet locale.
Central Conflict
- Philip's desire to join the track team is hindered by his poor English grade, leading him to seek ways to escape Miss Narwin's class rather than improve.
Character Comparison
- Mr. Lunser is a relaxed, humorous teacher, contrasting with the strict and serious demeanor of Ms. Narwin.
Philip's Interests
- In March, Philip is particularly focused on track, which drives his actions throughout the narrative.
Parental Concerns
- Mr. Malloy worries about work conditions and Philip's athletic ambitions, while Mrs. Malloy is more focused on financial concerns.
Philip's Interaction with Allison
- Philip calls Allison to borrow a book and attempt to impress her with his sense of humor.
Memo's Significance
- Dr. Joseph Palleni's memo indicates that Philip will be transferred to Miss Narwin's homeroom, a change he greatly dislikes.
Philip's Exam Attitude
- Philip answers an exam question rudely and incorrectly, illustrating his discontent and rebellious nature.
Miss Narwin's Feedback
- Miss Narwin's comments on Philip's exam are truthful and insightful, showcasing her commitment to honest evaluation.
Philip's Academic Performance
- Philip receives a D in English for the winter term, leading to his anger and frustration.
Miss Narwin's Grant Application
- Miss Narwin seeks to renew her teaching approach through a summer workshop, indicating her care and commitment to her students and subject matter.
District Challenges
- The Harrison District is grappling with a budget crisis, putting programs and personnel at risk, reflecting societal educational challenges.
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