Title: Seventh grade

Author: Gary Soto

 

Characters:

-          Vitor: A seventh-grade boy trying to impress a girl

-          Teresa: A girl Victor likes

-          Mr. Bueller: The French teacher

-          Michael: Victor’s friend who pretends to know French

  

Plot Elements

Exposition: First day of seventh grade, and Victor is hoping to make the best of it this year, particularly with a girl named Teresa. He discusses girls and a new beginning with his friend Michael.

Rising Action: Throughout the day, Victor tries to get Teresa's attention but ends up embarrassing himself: in French class, when Teresa says she can speak French, Victor pretends that he can too and blurts out random sounds, hoping to impress her.

Climax: Mr. Bueller realizes what Victor is doing but doesn't embarrass him. Instead, he plays along, pretending Victor's nonsense is really French. Teresa is impressed and asks Victor to help her study French sometime.

Resolution: Victor feels proud and hopeful. He thinks, maybe seventh grade won’t be so bad after all. 

 

Summary:  In "Seventh Grade," Victor begins a school year attempting to make a good impression on a girl he likes, Teresa. Following a string of awkward moments, he fakes knowledge of French in an attempt to win her over. With his teacher's quiet kindness, the plan works out better than expected, and Victor ends the day feeling confident and happy. 

 

 Analysis & Feelings:

Gary Soto captures awkwardness, hope, and excitement in growing up. The story is realistic and funny because it shows just how silly people might act to try and impress others. I liked how Mr. Bueller was kind and didn't embarrass Victor. The story reminded me that everyone makes mistakes when they're in a nervous situation, but sometimes things turn out fine anyway. I felt happy for Victor and thought it was sweet and relatable when he was finally able to be himself and grow up.