Speak Notes Fourth Marking Period

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Questions and Answers

Why is Melinda spying on Rachel?

Rachel is dating Andy and Melinda wants to check up on her.

How does Melinda warn Rachel about Andy?

She writes a note.

What opinion does Mr. Neck give failing students?

Extra credit on cultural influences at the turn of the century.

What advice does David give Melinda about speaking up?

David says she can't speak up for her right to be silent. Signup and view all the answers

What does Melinda's yard work symbolize metaphorically about her inner life?

Cleaning herself up and letting new growth come. Signup and view all the answers

How does Melinda's raking help the tree?

Helps get rid of the tree's disease. Signup and view all the answers

How might a tree represent life?

Trees give us oxygen, shade, and wood for shelter. Signup and view all the answers

What does Melinda write on the bathroom stall?

Guys stay away from Andy Evans. Signup and view all the answers

How does Melinda finally reveal the truth to Rachel?

She talks to her to get the conversation started about Andy, then writes a note. Signup and view all the answers

How does Rachel react to Melinda's note?

She is sad for her and doesn't believe her. Signup and view all the answers

What does Ivy show Melinda in the bathroom?

Other girls commented on the note about Andy. Signup and view all the answers

How does that make Melinda feel?

It makes her feel like she can fly. Signup and view all the answers

How is Melinda's mood changing?

She is becoming her normal self again and is getting happier. Signup and view all the answers

What does Melinda change about her behavior?

She rides her bike, stands up to Heather, and starts opening up to people. Signup and view all the answers

What happens at the prom?

Rachel ditches Andy in the middle of it for dancing suggestively. Signup and view all the answers

Why doesn't Melinda need her secret closet anymore?

She doesn't want to hide anymore. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when Melinda gets attacked?

She defends herself and holds a piece of glass to Andy's throat. Signup and view all the answers

How does Melinda's final tree art reflect her own life?

The tree reflects her tree in her yard because it has sick branches and is not perfect. Signup and view all the answers

What is the final thing she adds to the tree?

She puts birds flying over it. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when the truth is revealed about Andy?

People accept her and compliment her on her courage. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Melinda's Concerns and Actions

Melinda is worried about Rachel's relationship with Andy and feels the need to spy on her.
She attempts to warn Rachel about Andy by writing a note but struggles to communicate her concerns effectively.

School Dynamics and Personal Choices

Mr. Neck holds a dismissive view of failing students, offering extra credit assignments to demonstrate cultural impacts, which Melinda chooses to focus on the Suffragettes.
David encourages Melinda to speak up for herself, criticizing her previous approach during the Oral Report where she remained silent instead of speaking out.

Symbolism and Metaphors

The yard work Melinda engages in metaphorically represents her internal struggle, as she feels a sense of renewal by clearing out the "rot" in her life.
Raking is not just a chore; it serves as a means to help the tree recover from disease, paralleling Melinda's desire for healing.

The Tree as a Life Symbol

Trees symbolize life through their provision of oxygen, shelter, and shade, representing growth and resilience despite challenges.
Melinda’s final artwork incorporates a tree reflecting her own imperfections and struggles, signifying personal growth and acceptance.

Interactions with Rachel and Acceptance

Melinda writes a message in the bathroom stall warning others to stay away from Andy, showcasing her protective instincts.
Rachel's initial reaction to Melinda’s note is sadness and disbelief, indicating the complexity of their relationship.

Community and Support

Ivy reveals that other girls have seen Melinda's note about Andy, which instills a sense of community support and boosts Melinda's confidence.
As Melinda's mood improves, she starts to reconnect with her true self, engaging in activities she previously avoided and standing up to peers like Heather.

Prom Night and Personal Revelations

At the prom, Rachel’s decision to abandon Andy mid-dance reveals growing awareness among peers regarding his true character.
Melinda decides she no longer needs to hide in her secret closet, indicating significant personal growth and a desire for authenticity.

Confrontation and Courage

During a tense confrontation with Andy, Melinda defends herself by brandishing glass, which demonstrates her newfound strength and assertiveness.

Final Transformation and Acceptance

The revelation of the truth about Andy leads to a shift in Melinda's social standing; she receives recognition for her courage from peers, marking a turning point in her journey toward acceptance and healing.

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Description

This quiz focuses on key details and themes from the fourth marking period of the book 'Speak' by Laurie Halse Anderson. It covers important characters, plot developments, and Melinda's actions as she navigates her relationships and assignments. Test your understanding of Melinda's perspective and significant events in this section.