Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. How do sports help individuals feel a sense of belonging? In what ways is one’s identity strengthened by being a part of a team?

Teaching Suggestion: This question relates to Finley’s Identity as a member of the Bellmont High School basketball team. Finley takes very seriously both his role as a team player and his obedience to Coach. Within this team dynamic, Finley develops friendships with teammates. Similarly, Finley’s identity as a basketball player strengthens his relationship with his girlfriend, Erin, since they are both passionate about the same sport. He also acknowledges that basketball is one of the best parts of his life, along with Erin. Furthermore, sports provide an escape for Finley from his traumatic past, a theme that links with the Paired Resource for Chapters 9-17.

• This article highlights the benefits to young people of participating in sports.
• An interview with author Matthew Quick regarding The Importance of Friendship

2. Throughout the United States, many communities are ethnically and racially divided. What are some of the historical reasons for such division in communities? How are these divisions perpetuated for future generations? What role might local politics play in these communities?