Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is Ally being asked to do that she doesn't want to do?
Describe herself
Why is Ally being asked to describe herself?
For the new teacher
Why does Ally's teacher threaten to send her to the office?
She scribbles on her desk
What does Ally write on her paper?
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Who is the main character?
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What kind of card does Ally give Mrs. Hall?
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Why does Ally give Mrs. Hall a sympathy card?
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Who is Mrs. Silver?
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Who is Mr. Daniels?
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What does Mrs. Silvers ask Ally to read in her office?
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What is a mind movie?
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Why are teachers like the machines that take quarters for bouncy balls?
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What words do Ally hear her classmates call her?
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Who is Albert?
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What does Shay loudly whisper about Ally?
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What type of card does Ally give Mrs. Hall?
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Study Notes
Chapter 1 Overview
- Ally is reluctant to describe herself when asked by her teacher, indicating her discomfort with self-identification.
- The assignment to describe herself is prompted by the new teacher, Mr. Daniels, who is trying to learn about his students.
- Ally's act of scribbling on her desk leads to a threat of being sent to the office, reflecting her struggle with behavior and engagement in class.
- On a paper, Ally simply writes "Why," showcasing her frustration and confusion.
Character Introduction
- Ally Nickerson is introduced as the main character facing challenges with self-expression and learning.
- Her interaction with Mrs. Hall signifies her emotional state, as she gives a sympathy card to the teacher.
Chapter 2 Developments
- Ally's sympathy card for Mrs. Hall suggests a deeper connection and the perception that Mrs. Hall understands her difficulties.
- Ally gives this card because she feels a sense of compassion towards Mrs. Hall, likely due to a shared understanding of struggle, particularly regarding reading.
Chapter 3 Insights
- Mrs. Silver serves as the principal, involved in Ally's academic journey and potentially contributing to the challenges she faces.
- Mr. Daniels, the new teacher, plays a crucial role in Ally's development and is introduced as a figure of support.
- In a particularly intense moment, Mrs. Silver asks Ally to read from a poster in her office, highlighting Ally's reading difficulties.
Ally's Internal Experience
- Ally mentally imagines "mind movies," which are vivid scenes she creates in her mind, used as a coping mechanism or to escape her reality.
- The analogy comparing teachers to machines that take quarters for bouncy balls illustrates the predictability yet unpredictability of educational encounters.
Social Dynamics
- Ally hears derogatory names from her classmates, such as "Freak," "Dumb," and "Loser," reflecting her feelings of alienation and low self-esteem.
- Albert is referred to as the "walking Google page," indicating his intelligence and knowledge among peers.
- Shay's mocking whispers, labeling Ally a "freak," deepen the existing social conflict and bullying atmosphere in their school setting.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of the first three chapters of 'Fish In A Tree'. This quiz focuses on key events, character actions, and important questions that arise in these chapters. Perfect for studying and reviewing the material.
