Freedom Writers Program and Psychological Effects
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Questions and Answers

What underlying issues does the author attribute to her mother's inability to provide care?

  • Financial struggles and employment issues
  • Mental illness and lack of motivation
  • Social pressures and relationships
  • Substance abuse and exhaustion (correct)

    • What realization led to the author's internal conflict regarding her sexuality?

  • Pressure from society to conform
  • Her best friend's love declaration (correct)
  • Fear of judgment from teachers
  • Negative comments from her family

    • What is one concern the author has about revealing her sexuality?

  • Disapproval from distant relatives
  • Being ostracized from her religious school (correct)
  • Being forced to move out of her home
  • Loss of academic scholarships

    • How did the author's close friends react to her coming out?

    <p>They became distant and critical</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the author express doubt about concerning her mother's reaction?

    <p>Whether her mother will accept her sexuality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What broader belief does the author develop from her experience of revealing her sexuality?

    <p>Many who claim to support you may abandon you</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After all, it is a religious school, and the by-laws say that ______ will not be tolerated.

    <p>homosexuality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the author's primary concern about coming out as a lesbian?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What motivated the author to change their lifestyle and focus on football?

    <p>Encouragement from parents and Ms. Gruwell</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author’s academic performance change by their senior year?

    <p>It improved significantly, achieving an A grade</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Ms. Gruwell play in the author's moment of transformation?

    <p>She provided an engaging educational experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What shift in priorities occurred for the author over the years?

    <p>From sports and partying to academics and fitness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what age did the author start smoking and drinking regularly?

    <p>Twelve years old</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the impacts of the author’s drug use on their life?

    <p>Deterioration of academic performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the author recognize as a critical factor in their turning point?

    <p>The support and encouragement from family and mentors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the author's attitude towards school during their early high school years?

    <p>They tried to avoid school as much as possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the author's drug use have on their extracurricular activities?

    <p>It caused them to stop attending football practice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What academic achievement did the author reach by their senior year?

    <p>Raising their chemistry grade to the second-highest A.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author's perspective on getting high change over time?

    <p>They no longer think about it and prioritize other activities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what stage in life did the author perceive their drug experimentation became a full-on addiction?

    <p>In their freshman year of high school.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What consequence did the author's drug use have on their social relationships?

    <p>Their relationships with family and friends deteriorated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily changed in the author's life after their parents started using drugs?

    <p>A severe decline in their living conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotion did the author feel upon discovering their gold charm was missing?

    <p>Betrayal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author cope with the chaotic environment in their home?

    <p>By isolating themselves in a closet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the author's parents' drug use have on their education?

    <p>They became less focused due to hunger and instability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the author compare their difficult situation to when hiding in the closet?

    <p>Anne Frank in her attic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the author's feelings toward their parents' drug addiction?

    <p>They are resentful and feel neglected</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a result of the parents' drug use on the family's basic necessities?

    <p>Neglect of food and utilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What reaction did the author face when a friend visited their home?

    <p>They felt embarrassed by an eviction notice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the author feel about their parents' promises regarding stealing?

    <p>The author feels betrayed and hurt when their parents break their promise not to steal from them again.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the metaphor comparing their situation to that of Anne Frank?

    <p>The metaphor highlights the author's feelings of entrapment and vulnerability in a chaotic home, likening it to a war zone.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author felt locked in the ______ when their parents were focused on getting high.

    <p>closet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author feels that their parents prioritize their drug use over their child's well-being.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author was appreciative of their parents for supporting their needs and ensuring food was always available.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author compares their experience in the closet to that of Anne Frank hiding from enemies.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The stolen gold charm was the most valuable item the author owned, and its loss affected them deeply.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author's parents demonstrate consistent financial responsibility by paying all their bills on time.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author felt safe during their childhood, despite the turmoil at home.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author enjoyed their time spent in the closet, as they created a mini-comfort zone for themselves.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Peanut Game emphasized that people should be judged solely by their outer appearance.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The girls targeted the author with cruel names during junior high because of her weight.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author felt empowered enough to fight back against her bullies on the bus.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ms. Gruwell used the metaphor of peanuts to highlight the importance of judging others based on their character rather than their looks.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author's experience of being bullied left no lasting impact on her feelings of self-worth.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author found solace in the realization that everyone is judged in a similar manner, much like peanuts in the game.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author's reflection on her experiences in Ms. Gruwell's class led her to feel defeated by external opinions.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What realization did the author come to during the Peanut Game regarding her experience with weight?

    <p>Outward appearances do not reflect internal value.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author's feelings during the bullying incident affect her actions?

    <p>She felt powerless and did not defend herself.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of the Peanut Game resonates with the author’s self-reflection?

    <p>It illustrates how external appearances can be misleading.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sentiment does Ms. Gruwell’s remark, 'Don’t judge a peanut by its shell,' convey?

    <p>Inner qualities are more valuable than outward appearances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which emotion most accurately describes the author’s feelings as she left the bus after the bullying incident?

    <p>Shame for being targeted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the author's reflections on her past experiences with bullying?

    <p>They still haunt her and affect her self-perception.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did categorizing the peanuts play in the author’s learning during the Peanut Game?

    <p>It highlighted diversity in appearances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the phrase 'the sound of their laughter echoed in my ears' imply about the author's experience?

    <p>It signifies the lasting impact of bullying.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the main challenges faced by the author due to Cystic Fibrosis?

    <p>Difficulty with weight gain and digestion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the author experience the effects of Cystic Fibrosis on their daily life?

    <p>Frequent hospital visits and school absences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact does Cystic Fibrosis have on the author's ability to concentrate?

    <p>Distracted due to coughing attacks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotional response does the author express about being hospitalized?

    <p>Fear of missing too much school</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant concern for the author regarding their health condition?

    <p>The possibility of needing a lung transplant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major challenge faced by the author as a result of Cystic Fibrosis?

    <p>Difficulty gaining weight due to digestive problems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What types of treatments does the author require for managing their condition?

    <p>Breathing treatments and digestive pills</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the author feel about their time away from school due to health issues?

    <p>Concerned about missing educational assignments and social interactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotional state does the author express due to the frequency of hospital visits?

    <p>A sense of fear and uncertainty about the future</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What previous support did the author receive during their last hospitalization?

    <p>A personal visit and card signed by classmates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one primary challenge faced by the individual due to Cystic Fibrosis?

    <p>Difficulty in managing weight and digestion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What coping mechanism does the individual use to deal with their condition?

    <p>Using breathing treatments and taking pills regularly</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What future concern does the individual express regarding their health?

    <p>Need for a lung transplant to improve life expectancy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author has been on the transplant list for over six months due to __________ illness.

    <p>lung</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author experiences coughing attacks every five to fifteen minutes, which makes it hard to __________.

    <p>concentrate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To manage their condition, the author must take pills and undergo __________ treatments.

    <p>breathing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The lack of __________ often leads the author to experience migraines.

    <p>oxygen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the narrator's hospital experience affect their education?

    <p>The narrator misses school for surgery and worries about falling behind on assignments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotional response does the narrator have regarding their hospitalizations?

    <p>The narrator expresses fear and concern about missing school and losing normal life experiences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does Ms. G play in the narrator's life during their health challenges?

    <p>Ms. G provides emotional support by visiting the narrator in the hospital and bringing a card signed by classmates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What future concern does the narrator express about their health?

    <p>The narrator is anxious about being on the transplant list for new lungs and the possibility of having only a few years left.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotional effect did the bullying have on the author during her childhood?

    <p>She turned into a shy, insecure, and quiet girl.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author react to the rude comments about her eyesight from her classmate?

    <p>She expressed her frustration and slapped the girl.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the bullying have on the author's interaction with potential friends?

    <p>She was afraid of being teased and remained alone.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the author attribute her violent reaction to during the encounter in science class?

    <p>The girl's comment represented all her past bullies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What lesson did Ms. G teach the author after discussing her own experiences with bullying?

    <p>Incidents of bullying can motivate one to become better individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What coping mechanism did the author primarily use to deal with her classmates' bullying throughout her school years?

    <p>She often brushed off and ignored the comments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the reaction of the author's teachers to the incidents of bullying she faced?

    <p>They often overlooked the bullying occurrences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant moment changed the author's perspective on how she should respond to bullying?

    <p>Hearing about another student's bullying experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author's experiences of bullying during childhood affect her personality?

    <p>The bullying made her shy, insecure, and turned her into a quiet girl.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did the fight with her classmate serve as a pivotal moment for the author?

    <p>The fight represented a release of long-held anger and a potential turning point in her personal growth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotions did the author experience when she slapped her classmate during the fight?

    <p>She felt extreme fury and a sense of release from her built-up anger.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author's isolation affect her ability to make friends?

    <p>The fear of being made fun of caused her to remain alone and avoid forming friendships.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What realization did the author come to after her fight that hinted at personal growth?

    <p>She reflected on how the incident might make her a better person in the future.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physical actions did the author take during her confrontation that indicated her emotional state?

    <p>The author slapped her classmate and shook uncontrollably after being separated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Their ruthless comments shaped my ______ and turned me into a shy, insecure, and quiet girl.

    <p>personality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When I heard the girl next to me making rude comments about my bad ______, I felt very sensitive.

    <p>eyesight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What motivated the author to change their lifestyle after the deaths of their friends?

    <p>A need to help rebuild their community</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What realization did the author express regarding their role in the barrio after their transformation?

    <p>They have a responsibility to serve as a positive role model.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the author feel about their transformation in perspective after the loss of their friends?

    <p>Regretful that it took a tragedy to realize their wrong path</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the author's initial feeling towards their community before making changes in their life?

    <p>A sense of shame for not contributing positively</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the author imply about the opportunities for change in life?

    <p>Desire and determination are crucial for initiating change</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author believes that their transformation was influenced by the deaths of two friends.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The older cholos in the barrio are seen as successful role models by the community.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author feels remorse for having hurt the community in the past.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author believes it is too late for others to change their lives.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author describes themselves as the 'chosen one' of the barrio.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant event caused the narrator to change their perspective on life?

    <p>The murder of two friends during a robbery attempt.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the narrator's role in the community shift after their transformation?

    <p>The narrator transitioned from being a negative influence to a role model for younger individuals in the barrio.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What realization did the narrator come to regarding the ability to change one’s life?

    <p>The narrator realized that it's never too late to change, and it depends on one's desire to do so.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotions does the narrator express about their past choices and the death of their friends?

    <p>The narrator feels pain for their friends' deaths and regret for having hurt their community.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the narrator mean by feeling like the 'chosen one' in the barrio?

    <p>They feel a sense of purpose and responsibility to guide the younger generation positively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Peanut Game helped the author realize that people's worth is often judged based on their outward appearance.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author's experience with bullying during junior high had no significant emotional impact on her.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ms. Gruwell’s metaphor about peanuts emphasizes that one should judge based on external characteristics.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the Peanut Game, the author compared the characteristics of a peanut to her personal struggles with weight.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author fought back against her bullies on the school bus during junior high.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The girls' taunts during junior high reflected a compassionate understanding of the author's situation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The author learned to define her self-worth despite the hurtful words of others.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The physical pain from the bullying incident was less significant than the emotional pain that followed.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Chaos and Separation Anxiety

    • The author feels like chaos is infiltrating all aspects of her life.
    • The chaos has affected her home life and now threatens her involvement in the Freedom Writers program.
    • The author came to Wilson High School to escape the instability of her upbringing.
    • Her mother would often give her money and the car keys and request her to leave for the weekend.
    • The author's mother was not a bad mother, but she felt overwhelmed by the responsibility of parenting.
    • The author mentions her mother’s drinking, drugs, and her own behavior as possible contributing factors to the situation.
    • The author felt the lack of rules and curfews made her feel uncared for and contributed to her depression.
    • She felt isolated and longed for guidance and support.
    • The Freedom Writers program provided a sense of belonging and safety for the author.
    • The author relies heavily on the support of the Freedom Writers and would be devastated if the program were to be discontinued.

    The Struggle for Stability

    • The author feels like chaos is engulfing their life, impacting both their home and school life.
    • The author moved to Wilson hoping for a more controlled environment than their upbringing provided.
    • The author's mother lacked traditional parenting skills, often prioritizing her own needs over her child's.
    • The author's upbringing involved a lack of structure and guidance, with the mother being absent for days or weeks at a time.
    • The author struggled with feelings of loneliness and depression, seeking refuge in escapism.
    • The Freedom Writers provided a sense of belonging and support, filling a void in the author's life.
    • The threat of losing the Freedom Writers class feels like a loss of family, causing anxiety for the author due to fears of reliving past loneliness.

    Chaos and Freedom

    • The author feels overwhelmed by chaos, which is encroaching on all aspects of her life.
    • This chaos started with her home life and is threatening to disrupt the Freedom Writers, her support system.
    • The author's mother was inconsistent and lacked responsibility, leaving her with a sense of isolation and lack of guidance.
    • Despite her mother's lack of involvement, the author felt lonely and wished for parental support.
    • The author was forced to mature and develop her own sense of responsibility at a young age, experiencing the burden of self-reliance.
    • The Freedom Writers provided a sense of belonging and care for the author, filling a void created by her turbulent home life.
    • Losing the Freedom Writers would be a significant loss for the author, equivalent to losing family members.
    • The author grapples with the fear of repeating the loneliness she faced as a child.

    Homosexuality and Acceptance

    • The author is a lesbian and has recently come to terms with her sexuality.
    • She experienced confusion and fear about being accepted by others, especially close friends, family, and her college.
    • The author notes that the college she is attending is a religious school with strict rules prohibiting homosexuality.
    • The author questions the sincerity of friends who claim to be accepting because some of her friends rejected her after she came out.
    • The author fears her mother's acceptance despite her previous claims, drawing a parallel to her friends who later rejected her.
    • The author has received positive acceptance from some family members, but the process of telling her parents remains daunting.

    Experiences of a Lesbian Student

    • The author is a lesbian student who recently realized her sexual orientation.
    • The author's experience with being a lesbian has been difficult due to societal intolerance and fear of rejection.
    • The author experienced direct rejection from some friends after revealing her sexuality.
    • The author worries about her social group's acceptance and the potential consequences of revealing her relationship at college, especially considering it's a religious institution.
    • The author's family has been more accepting than some friends, but she still fears her mother's reaction.
    • The author's story highlights the internal struggle of accepting oneself and navigating social norms related to sexuality.
    • The author's story is a poignant reminder of the potential for rejection and the importance of acceptance.
    • The author's story raises concerns about the impact of societal attitudes and religious beliefs on individuals' well-being.

    Homosexuality and Acceptance

    • The author is a lesbian and has recently come to terms with her sexual orientation.
    • The author's experience has led her to question the nature of acceptance and friendship.
    • She is concerned about how people will react to her sexual orientation, particularly her family, friends, and potential college.
    • The author is worried about the potential consequences of being openly gay, including being rejected by her friends, family, and college.
    • The author's experience highlights the challenges and anxieties faced by individuals coming out as LGBTQ+, especially in environments where tolerance is not a given.
    • The author notes that some of her friends were the ones who had the biggest problem with her sexual orientation.
    • The author has found support in her family members, but remains apprehensive about the reaction of her mother.
    • The author expresses fear of being rejected by her friends and family, underscoring the emotional complexities of coming out.
    • The author's experience highlights the importance of understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations.
    • The author's experience reflects the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and the need for greater tolerance and understanding in society.

    The Impact of Coming Out

    • The author recently realized she is a lesbian after reciprocating her best friend's feelings.
    • Coming out has been a confusing and scary experience for the author.
    • The author is concerned about how others will react to her sexuality, especially those in her close social circle.
    • She is particularly anxious about the potential reaction of her family and the religious college she plans to attend.
    • The author's experience has led her to believe that true friends will be accepting, contrary to her experience with some friends who rejected her.
    • While a few family members have been supportive, the author remains uncertain about her mother's response.

    Diary Entry on Homosexuality

    • The author identifies as a lesbian.
    • She recently realized she was a lesbian after her best friend confessed her love for her.
    • The author feels confused and scared about coming out.
    • She worries about the potential reactions of friends, family, and the college she plans to attend.
    • The author is concerned about being accepted by her social group, especially given that the college she will be attending is a religious school with strict rules against homosexuality.
    • Some of the author's close friends reacted negatively to the news, saying they were worried she was going to hell and didn't want to associate with her anymore.
    • The author's family members have been more accepting of her sexuality.
    • However, she remains apprehensive about telling her mother, unsure if her initial support will hold up.

    The Importance of Support Systems

    • The author struggled with addiction from age 12, losing interest in football due to drug use.
    • He dropped out of school and lost his old friends, prioritizing drugs over his passions.
    • His parents' relentless support and encouragement from his English teacher, Ms. Gruwell, helped him turn his life around.

    Overcoming Addiction and Achieving Success

    • The author credits his recovery to Ms. Gruwell's class, a church camp experience, and his parents' continued support.
    • He transformed his life within two years, prioritizing his education, health, and football career.
    • The author achieved academic success despite his past struggles, earning an A in chemistry during his senior year.
    • He attributes his success to his new priorities and hard work, focusing on his future and goals.

    The Story of an All-American

    • The author was a high school football player who became addicted to drugs and alcohol.
    • He started experimenting with drugs at age 12 and became addicted by the time he was a high school freshman.
    • He used various drugs including weed, alcohol, and other uppers and downers.
    • The author’s addiction led to him ditching school, neglecting football, and distancing himself from his old friends.
    • The individual’s mom was a strong support system, and got the author enrolled in Ms.Gruwell’s English class.
    • The author cites Ms.Gruwell's class, a church camp experience, and his parents’ support as turning points in his life.
    • These influences helped him realize the destructive effects of his addiction and encouraged him to change.
    • The author has since turned his life around, prioritizing football, academics, and his relationships.
    • He received a full-ride scholarship to play football at a Pac-10 school and aims to pursue a college degree and an NFL career.

    The Impact of Crack Addiction on a Child

    • The narrator's parents are addicted to crack cocaine, which has significantly impacted their lives.
    • The narrator is constantly exposed to the smell of drugs, both in the house and when interacting with their parents.
    • The narrator describes their parents' physical appearance as "big and bulging" eyes, their bodies twitching, and the smell of cocaine lingering on their skin.
    • The parents prioritize feeding their drug addiction over their basic responsibilities, leaving the narrator to struggle with food shortages and unpaid bills.
    • The narrator experiences neglect and abuse due to the parents' addiction. They have been locked in a closet during violent arguments and have witnessed their mother being physically assaulted.
    • The parents' drug addiction has created unstable and dangerous living conditions, leading to eviction and power outages.
    • The narrator feels emotionally neglected and betrayed, especially after their parents took a precious charm given to them as a gift.
    • The narrator's life is marked by instability, fear, and a lack of basic necessities due to their parents' addiction.

    The Impact of Crack Cocaine on a Family

    • The narrator is a child living with parents who are addicted to crack cocaine.
    • The addiction has a profound impact on the family, causing financial hardship, neglect, and violence.
    • The narrator describes the constant presence of the smell of crack cocaine in the home.
    • The narrator's parents are often erratic and unpredictable, their behavior fueled by their addiction.
    • The narrator has experienced physical and emotional neglect, including times when the family has gone without food.
    • The family is constantly struggling with bills and evictions.
    • The narrator has been locked in a closet by their parents while they used crack and fought with each other.
    • The narrator describes a particularly violent incident where the father injured the mother.
    • The narrator compares their experience to Anne Frank's hiding during the Holocaust, reflecting on the emotional trauma and isolation they experience.
    • The narrator's parents prioritize their drug use over their responsibilities as parents.

    The Impact of Crack Addiction on a Family

    • The narrator's parents have a severe crack cocaine addiction, significantly affecting their behavior and the family's well-being.
    • The narrator's parents have stolen her valuable belongings, including her "Someone Special" gold charm, previously pawning her Nintendo, TV, and VCR.
    • The narrator expresses anger and betrayal towards her parents for stealing from her, especially a gift that holds sentimental value.
    • The constant smell of burnt cocaine permeates the house, clinging to the parents' skin, making physical affection uncomfortable for the narrator.
    • The narrator describes the physical effects of the drug addiction on her parents, including dilated pupils, body tremors, and an obsessive desire to use.
    • The narrator reveals that food scarcity is a constant issue due to her parents prioritizing drug use over basic necessities.
    • The parents' addiction has resulted in financial instability, leading to frequent power outages, late payments on car and rent, and even an eviction notice.
    • The narrator endured traumatic experiences of being locked in a closet by her parents while they used drugs and fought, including witnessing her father injure her mother.
    • The narrator sought refuge and comfort in the closet, even creating a makeshift space with snacks and a TV to escape the violence and chaos at home.
    • The narrator's comparison of herself to Anne Frank highlights the sense of confinement and fear she experienced, trapped in a home where her parents' addiction controlled their behavior.

    The Narrator's Stolen Charm

    • The narrator is upset because her parents took her “Someone Special” gold charm without her consent.
    • The narrator’s parents have previously pawned other possessions, including her Nintendo, TV, and VCR.
    • The narrator views this as an act of betrayal, questioning how they could take something so precious to her.

    The Impact of Parents’ Drug Addiction

    • The parents' crack cocaine addiction is a constant presence in the narrator's life.
    • The house is permeated with the smell of burnt cocaine, even lingering on their skin.
    • The narrator describes the physical effects of drug use, including dilated pupils, twitching, and a seemingly obsessive focus on getting high.
    • The parents’ priority is feeding their drug habit, leading to neglect and financial instability.

    The Consequences of Parental Neglect

    • The narrator experiences periods of hunger due to the lack of food.
    • The family is frequently behind on bills, resulting in power outages and eviction notices.
    • The narrator has faced social ridicule due to the family's struggles.
    • In the past, the parents would lock the narrator in a closet during their drug-fueled fights.

    The Narrator’s Emotional Impact

    • The narrator describes a sense of fear and isolation, comparing her situation to Anne Frank hiding in an attic.
    • The narrator feels trapped and powerless, with the drugs perceived as powerful adversaries.
    • The closet serves as a temporary escape from the chaos and violence within the home.

    The Peanut Game

    • The Peanut Game involved describing the physical characteristics of a peanut on one side of a piece of paper.
    • The students were asked to note that despite its appearance, a peanut can actually be delicious.
    • The game involved categorizing peanuts based on their appearance.

    Personal Reflection

    • The author drew a parallel between the Peanut Game and her own struggles with weight.
    • The author was bullied in junior high school for her weight and called hurtful names.
    • The author was physically attacked on the school bus.
    • The author was spat on from the bus window by her bullies.
    • The author felt powerless to defend herself and was traumatized by this experience.

    Key Takeaway

    • The author realized that people, like peanuts, are often judged by their outward appearances.
    • The author learned that she should not let others’ hurtful words define her.
    • The author realized that she should focus on her own worth as a human being and not be defined by external factors.

    The Peanut Game and Personal Experiences

    • The "Peanut Game" involved describing peanuts based on their appearance and taste.
    • The author categorized peanuts by their exteriors, realizing that the game mirrored her struggles with weight.
    • The author was bullied for her weight in junior high, experiencing taunts and physical assault on the school bus.
    • The author felt powerless to defend herself against the bullying and was left physically and emotionally hurt.
    • The "Peanut Game" helped the author see that people are judged by their outward appearance, just like peanuts.
    • Ms. Gruwell's analogy, "Don't judge a peanut by its shell, judge it by what's inside," resonated with the author.
    • The author recognizes that her worth as a human being is not defined by others' hurtful words and views herself as equal to everyone else.

    Cystic Fibrosis

    • Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a lung disease that causes breathing difficulties, frequent coughing attacks, and digestive problems.
    • The writer suffers from CF and has to undergo frequent hospital visits due to the condition.
    • The writer experiences coughing attacks every five to fifteen minutes, each lasting about five minutes.
    • The writer struggles with weight gain due to digestive issues, requiring medication and breathing treatments.
    • The writer is on the transplant list and may only have a few years left without a lung transplant.
    • The writer finds it difficult to concentrate in school due to the breathing difficulties and migraine headaches.
    • The writer highlights the importance of school and expresses concern over missing classes due to hospitalization.
    • The writer appreciates the support of Ms.G and the class, who provided encouragement during a previous hospitalization.

    Cystic Fibrosis

    • The author suffers from Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a lung disease.
    • CF causes breathing difficulties, frequent coughing attacks lasting 5-15 minutes, and migraines.
    • The author experiences weight gain challenges due to difficulties digesting food.
    • The author takes medication and undergoes breathing treatments to help with digestion.
    • Missing these treatments leads to severe stomachaches and weight loss.
    • The author is on the transplant list for over six months and may have only a few years left without a lung transplant.
    • The author enjoys school and is concerned about missing assignments and being away from friends and teachers.
    • School is one of the few things the author enjoys.

    Cystic Fibrosis

    • Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a lung disease
    • The author has CF and experiences breathing difficulties
    • Breathing difficulties cause coughing attacks every 5 to 15 minutes, each lasting 5 minutes
    • The author struggles to concentrate due to coughing attacks and migraines
    • The author experiences difficulty digesting food requiring pills and breathing treatments
    • The author is registered on the transplant list and may only have a few years left unless a lung transplant is successful
    • School provides enjoyment and the author will miss it during hospitalization
    • The author is concerned about missing schoolwork

    Cystic Fibrosis

    • The author has Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a lung disease that causes breathing difficulties.
    • The author experiences coughing attacks every 5 to 15 minutes, each lasting 5 minutes.
    • These attacks make it hard to concentrate and result in migraines due to lack of oxygen.
    • The author struggles with weight gain due to difficulty digesting food, requiring medication and breathing treatments.
    • Missing treatments results in severe stomachaches and weight loss.
    • The author has been on a lung transplant list for over six months.
    • The author may only have a few years left without a lung transplant.
    • The author enjoys school and is concerned about missing schoolwork and social interaction.
    • The author's teacher, Ms. G, is supportive and visited the author during a previous hospitalization.

    Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

    • The author has Cystic Fibrosis, a lung disease.
    • The author has to go to the hospital for sinus surgery.
    • The author expects to be out of school for a week or two.
    • The author has breathing difficulties, coughing attacks every 5-15 minutes, each lasting 5 minutes.
    • Coughing attacks make concentration difficult.
    • The lack of oxygen causes migraines.
    • The author has trouble digesting food, requiring pills and breathing treatments.
    • Missing breathing treatments causes severe stomachaches and weight loss.
    • The author has been on the lung transplant list for over six months.
    • The author has a limited life expectancy without a lung transplant.
    • The author expresses fear and hope about their future.

    School

    • The author is concerned about missing school.
    • The author appreciates their teacher, Ms.G, for her support during past hospitalizations.
    • The author wants to limit their time out of school to two weeks.
    • The author enjoys attending school.

    Dealing with Bullying

    • Author was bullied for her eyesight throughout her childhood and adolescence.
    • Bullying caused author to become shy, insecure, and quiet.
    • Author was afraid of making friends because of potential for bullying.
    • The author was bullied in science class by another girl, which resulted in the author slapping the girl.
    • The author's science teacher had a similar experience with a bullied student named Sharuad.
    • After the incident, the author's science teacher became a better teacher.
    • The author believes the incident could make her a better person.

    Childhood Bullying

    • The author experienced persistent bullying throughout elementary and middle school due to their eyesight.
    • Name-calling ("four eyes," "blind as a bat," "coke bottle") caused significant emotional distress.
    • The bullying led to feelings of shyness, insecurity, and isolation, impacting their social interactions and self-esteem.

    Recent Incident in Science Class

    • A classmate made rude comments about the author's eyesight.
    • The author's initial reaction was to try to ignore the bullying but the classmate escalated the situation by writing on the author's jacket.
    • The author's pent-up anger from years of bullying culminated in a physical altercation, where they slapped the classmate.
    • The author's emotional response to the confrontation involved a complete loss of self-control and intense shaking.

    Teacher's Perspective and Reflection

    • The science teacher intervened in the fight.
    • The teacher shared a past experience where a student named Sharuad was bullied due to his physical appearance and how that incident affected her.
    • The author reflects on the possibility of personal growth and becoming a "better person" as a result of this incident.

    Childhood Bullying

    • The author experienced persistent bullying throughout elementary and middle school due to their eyesight.
    • Name-calling ("four eyes," "blind as a bat," "coke bottle") caused significant emotional distress.
    • The bullying led to extreme shyness, insecurity, and social isolation, affecting the author's personality and self-esteem.

    Recent Bullying Incident

    • A classmate made rude comments about the author's eyesight in science class.
    • The author's usual passive response changed; they confronted the classmate, leading to escalating conflict.
    • The classmate's use of a derogatory term triggered a strong emotional response, resulting in a physical altercation (a slap).
    • The author's reaction was attributed to pent-up anger and frustration from years of bullying.

    Teacher's Response and Reflection

    • The science teacher intervened, separating the author and the classmate.
    • The author's teacher shared a similar experience with a student named Sharud, who was bullied for his physical appearance, highlighting the teacher's reaction and subsequent change.
    • The author considers the possibility that this incident might lead to personal growth and improved understanding of others.

    Reflection on Loss and Change

    • The author's life changed significantly after the deaths of two friends.
    • The friends were respected members of their community, known as "the most loved cholos of the barrio."
    • Their deaths, which occurred during a robbery attempt, prompted the author's self-reflection.
    • The author realized he had been following a destructive path.
    • He now aspires to be a positive role model for the younger generation in his community.
    • The author's changed behavior and positive influence have earned him admiration from his neighbors.
    • Despite his positive transformation, the author feels remorse about the deaths of his friends and the missed opportunity for them to change their lives.
    • He believes change is always possible, regardless of past mistakes.
    • His personal experience motivates him to inspire others to pursue positive change as well.

    Reflection on Loss and Change

    • The author reflects on the deaths of two close friends, who were highly respected in their community.
    • The friends' deaths, which occurred during a robbery attempt, prompted a significant shift in the author's perspective.
    • The author acknowledges past mistakes and a misguided path.
    • He now serves as a positive role model for younger members of his community, aiming to guide them away from negative influences.
    • The author feels a sense of responsibility and purpose, striving to set a good example.
    • He experiences both pride in his transformation and sadness over the loss of his friends.
    • The author uses his experience to show the potential for change and second chances.
    • He emphasizes the importance of personal desire in achieving positive transformation.

    Impact of Loss

    • The author's life changed significantly after two close friends died during a robbery attempt.
    • This event prompted a reevaluation of his life choices and path.

    Transformation and New Perspective

    • The author shifted from a negative influence to a positive role model in his community.
    • He actively works to guide younger people, providing a positive example.
    • He feels a sense of responsibility and purpose in his changed life.

    Community Impact

    • The author’s actions have earned him respect and admiration from his neighbors.
    • He aims to correct past wrongs and contribute positively to his community.

    Regret and Reflection

    • The author expresses deep regret that it took the death of his friends for him to change his ways.
    • He believes that change is possible and encourages others to strive for positive transformation.
    • He acknowledges the unfairness of his friends not having the same opportunity for a second chance.

    Overall Message

    • The author's experience emphasizes the potential for positive change, even after significant missteps.
    • Choosing a better path requires a strong personal commitment.

    The Peanut Game and Personal Reflection on Weight

    • The "Peanut Game" involved describing peanuts' exteriors (small, round, dirty) and contrasting them with their taste (fantastic).

    • This mirrored the diary writer's struggles with weight and being judged solely on appearance.

    Bullying Incident on the School Bus

    • The writer was taunted with hurtful names ("Fatso," "big Buffalo") by a group of girls.

    • The girls physically assaulted the writer, kicking and hitting her relentlessly.

    • The writer felt powerless to defend herself, and the assault ended with the girls spitting on her from the bus window.

    Ms. Gruwell's Analogy and Self-Worth

    • Ms. Gruwell's analogy, "Don't judge a peanut by its shell, judge it by what's inside," resonated with the writer.

    • The writer realized that people are often judged by their outward appearance.

    • The writer resolved to not let others' hurtful words define her self-worth.

    • The writer affirmed her belief in her own intrinsic value as a human being.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the author's experiences with chaos and separation anxiety, specifically within the context of the Freedom Writers program. It highlights her struggles with instability in her upbringing and the impact on her mental health, particularly her feelings of isolation and desire for support. The discussion also reflects on her relationship with her mother and the role of the program in providing a sense of belonging.

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