Extra Credit: Vocab Words
Extra Credit Storyline
Main Characters / Extra Characters
- Autumn - Artist Girl
- Connor - Extra Credit
- Julian - Jock Guy
- Kallie - Writer Girl
- Payton - Prep Girl
- Danny - Main Character - Nerd Guy
Welcome to Extra Credit! Here, you can earn Rings by completing Challenges and Minigames that will teach you SAT/ACT words and improve your general vocabulary! Earn high scores for more Rings, and complete it all to unlock an exclusive Classmate! To play Extra Credits, you’ll have to spend Pencils to unlock banners on the map. Here, have 40 to start with! To start playing, just tap on the first banner!
Vocab Words 1
Read Extra Credit stories closely to help answer vocabulary questions that come up. It’s okay if you get words wrong; you can always play again to get a higher score! Now let’s begin!
Payton: Hey, Danny! You’re coming to my party, right?
You walk into English class and slide into the seat next to Julian and Payton.
Danny: Yeah! Julian, are you going?
Julian: We’ll see...
Danny: Is something wrong?
Julian: I... I’ll tell you later... class is starting.
At the front of the room, you see a new girl clutching a book to her chest.
Kallie: ...
Julian: Whoa, who’s that?
Danny: I don’t know, and I’m pretty sure I know everyone around here.
Your English teacher Mr. Olson clears his throat and explains that this is Kallie, a new student joining the class. He prompts her to tell everyone about herself.
Kallie: My name is, uh, Kallie, and I’m new, which... actually is entirely redundant because Mr. Olson just said that, didn’t he?
Julian leans over and whispers to you.
Julian: Is it just me, or is this new girl hard to understand? She keep repeating herself. What does redundant even mean?
Danny: It means she’s repetitive.
Julian: Yeah... ‘repetitive’. She did say she was ‘new’ twice.
Kallie: I’ve been homeschooled my entire life, so I haven’t really been around many people my own age. Not, um, this many at once, anyway. Anyway, my parents wanted to round out my curriculum. So though I’m not officially enrolled in this school, your principal was gracious enough to allow me to join you for English class, which I’ve heard is quite a rigorous course! ...in any case, as you may have noticed, when I get nervous, I tend to become very verbose... like right exactly at this moment, you might say...
Julian: Man, she just keeps talking! ‘Verbose’? What’s that about?
Danny: I think it means wordy.
Julian: Huh, okay. ‘Wordy’. That makes sense...
Kallie: ...honestly, I don’t know the first thing about high school. I don’t have many friends... I’ve never been to a party, and I’ve certainly never kissed anyone... Not that you want to know that... or that I even wanted to share that...
Payton: Wait, are you seriously saying you’ve never been kissed?!
Kallie turns bright red.
Kallie: I’ll just... sit down now... and pretend this never happened.
Julian: Heh, way to embarrass the new girl...
Payton: I didn’t mean to. Maybe someone should go talk to her. Or apologize! Or... kiss her?
Julian: Why are you looking at me?
Danny: Calm down, Payton. We’ll go talk to her after class and make sure she’s feeling welcome.
Later, as the class ends, Mr. Olson hands back your previous test papers, and you get dismissed.
Danny: Man, are these vocab quizzes getting harder? How’d you do?
Julian: Uh... oh, look, Kallie’s over there!
You, Julian, and Payton approach Kallie.
Danny: Hi, Kallie. I’m Danny! Welcome to our school.
Payton: I’m Payton. I’m so sorry about earlier. I wasn’t trying to put you on the spot!
Kallie: No need to apologize... I did a perfectly good job embarrassing myself. What a debacle.
Danny: I don’t think it was a disaster. You shouldn’t be hard on yourself.
Kallie: Thank you for saying so... but it was still quite embarrassing...
Julian: That? That was nothing. My first day at Hearst High, I tried to impress the coach by throwing a long ball and nailed the mascot right in the face!
Kallie: Really?
Julian: Really. I’m Julian, by the way.
Julian shakes her hand, and the already-present blush on Kallie’s face deepens.
Julian: Since it’s your first day here, we can show you around.
Kallie: That sounds nice. I’m not averse to the idea!
Danny: You mean, you’re not opposed.
Kallie: Nope! In fact, I’d love to tour your school!
Danny: Where should we go first?
Julian: Well, let’s show her where people hang out! Over here is the gym.
You pass by and see several guys playing basketball. One of them calls out to Julian to come play.
Julian: Sorry, guys, I’m busy giving Kallie here a tour!
Kallie: No, it’s okay. I’d love to watch you play... I don’t mean, like, watch you... uh... just, yeah.
Julian runs off, taking off his shirt to join the skins team.
Payton: I will NEVER get tired of seeing that guy with his shirt off...
Kallie: Er, well, he seems very good at basketball... like a paragon of male fitness!
Danny: He does seem to be a prime example.
Payton: By the way, you should try to learn to stare without being so obvious.
Kallie: What? But I... I wasn’t...
Payton: Hee hee... just teasing you.
Payton: Hey, Danny! You’re coming to my party, right?
You walk into English class and slide into the seat next to Julian and Payton.
Danny: Yeah! Julian, are you going?
Julian: We’ll see...
Danny: Is something wrong?
Julian: I... I’ll tell you later... class is starting.
At the front of the room, you see a new girl clutching a book to her chest.
Kallie: ...
Julian: Whoa, who’s that?
Danny: I don’t know, and I’m pretty sure I know everyone around here.
Your English teacher Mr. Olson clears his throat and explains that this is Kallie, a new student joining the class. He prompts her to tell everyone about herself.
Kallie: My name is, uh, Kallie, and I’m new, which... actually is entirely redundant because Mr. Olson just said that, didn’t he?
Julian leans over and whispers to you.
Julian: Is it just me, or is this new girl hard to understand? She keep repeating herself. What does redundant even mean?
Danny: It means she’s repetitive.
Julian: Yeah... ‘repetitive’. She did say she was ‘new’ twice.
Kallie: I’ve been homeschooled my entire life, so I haven’t really been around many people my own age. Not, um, this many at once, anyway. Anyway, my parents wanted to round out my curriculum. So though I’m not officially enrolled in this school, your principal was gracious enough to allow me to join you for English class, which I’ve heard is quite a rigorous course! ...in any case, as you may have noticed, when I get nervous, I tend to become very verbose... like right exactly at this moment, you might say...
Julian: Man, she just keeps talking! ‘Verbose’? What’s that about?
Danny: I think it means wordy.
Julian: Huh, okay. ‘Wordy’. That makes sense...
Kallie: ...honestly, I don’t know the first thing about high school. I don’t have many friends... I’ve never been to a party, and I’ve certainly never kissed anyone... Not that you want to know that... or that I even wanted to share that...
Payton: Wait, are you seriously saying you’ve never been kissed?!
Kallie turns bright red.
Kallie: I’ll just... sit down now... and pretend this never happened.
Julian: Heh, way to embarrass the new girl...
Payton: I didn’t mean to. Maybe someone should go talk to her. Or apologize! Or... kiss her?
Julian: Why are you looking at me?
Danny: Calm down, Payton. We’ll go talk to her after class and make sure she’s feeling welcome.
Later, as the class ends, Mr. Olson hands back your previous test papers, and you get dismissed.
Danny: Man, are these vocab quizzes getting harder? How’d you do?
Julian: Uh... oh, look, Kallie’s over there!
You, Julian, and Payton approach Kallie.
Danny: Hi, Kallie. I’m Danny! Welcome to our school.
Payton: I’m Payton. I’m so sorry about earlier. I wasn’t trying to put you on the spot!
Kallie: No need to apologize... I did a perfectly good job embarrassing myself. What a debacle.
Danny: I don’t think it was a disaster. You shouldn’t be hard on yourself.
Kallie: Thank you for saying so... but it was still quite embarrassing...
Julian: That? That was nothing. My first day at Hearst High, I tried to impress the coach by throwing a long ball and nailed the mascot right in the face!
Kallie: Really?
Julian: Really. I’m Julian, by the way.
Julian shakes her hand, and the already-present blush on Kallie’s face deepens.
Julian: Since it’s your first day here, we can show you around.
Kallie: That sounds nice. I’m not averse to the idea!
Danny: You mean, you’re not opposed.
Kallie: Nope! In fact, I’d love to tour your school!
Danny: Where should we go first?
Julian: Well, let’s show her where people hang out! Over here is the gym.
You pass by and see several guys playing basketball. One of them calls out to Julian to come play.
Julian: Sorry, guys, I’m busy giving Kallie here a tour!
Kallie: No, it’s okay. I’d love to watch you play... I don’t mean, like, watch you... uh... just, yeah.
Julian runs off, taking off his shirt to join the skins team.
Payton: I will NEVER get tired of seeing that guy with his shirt off...
Kallie: Er, well, he seems very good at basketball... like a paragon of male fitness!
Danny: He does seem to be a prime example.
Payton: By the way, you should try to learn to stare without being so obvious.
Kallie: What? But I... I wasn’t...
Payton: Hee hee... just teasing you.
Vocab Words 4
Here’s a chance to see how well you know the first set of words you’ve been learning! Julian joins up with you again after his basketball game.
Julian: Hey, you guys are still here!
Payton: Yep! Just enjoying the view! Am I right, Kallie?
Kallie: I... uh... I mean... that’s... where to next?
Julian: Let’s go this way... we can see what the nerds are up to at the computer lab, and then we can swing by the library...
Kallie: Ooh, a library?
You, Julian, Payton, and Kallie walk around the school. Along the way, people introduce themselves to Kallie.
Kallie: Wow, there’s so many people at this school! I don’t know how you all remember everyone’s name.
Payton: It gets easier once you get to know everyone... Ooh! I have an AH-MAZING idea! I’m throwing a party! You should come!
Kallie: Um...
Danny: What’s wrong?
Kallie: Well, I... I’ve never been to a party... but I have always wanted to discover what it was like...
Julian: And you totally should. Hanging out with friends, listening to music, dancing... it doesn’t get much better than that...
Kallie: I’m not really a dancer.
Julian: I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it. And hey, if you’re worried, just find me, and I’ll make sure you have fun!
Kallie: Yeah, er, I mean... it sounds great... ...and completely terrifying. I mean... social situations and making friends... are not my forte. I get wordy when I’m nervous, and my extensive vocabulary doesn’t help. People usually have a hard time understanding me...
Danny: Aww, hey, you don’t have to worry about that. I understand you just fine.
Kallie: Are you sure?
Danny: I’d repeat myself, but that’d be redundant. See? You’re not the only one that uses big words.
Kallie: Hee hee...
Danny: So don’t worry about it.
Kallie: You don’t think this party will end in complete disaster?
Danny: No. It won’t be a debacle.
Kallie: Well, when you say it like that... I guess you really do understand me! Okay! I’ll go to the party! As long as I have you, Payton, and Julian, it’ll be great!
Payton: Hee hee, yes!
Julian: Uh, actually... I... I should probably skip this one...
Payton: What? Why?
Danny: You NEVER miss one of Payton’s parties! What could be so important that you can’t make it?
Julian sighs and holds out the vocab quiz your class got back from Mr. Olson. It has a big red zero on it.
Julian: I’ve flunked four vocab tests in a row, and if I don’t pass the quiz tomorrow, then I’m benches for the all-star football game next week!
Danny: Julian... I know you were having trouble, but I didn’t realize it was this bad...
Julian: Yeah, well, instead of partying, I’m studying vocab until my eyes bleed.
Kallie: Hey, I can help you study. I don’t know anything about parties or dancing, but I do know words! I can help you... I know I can!
Julian: Thanks, but... I don’t want to drag you down with me. We could be stuck studying for days...
Kallie: Don’t get down on yourself. I’m sure you know more than you think.
Danny: Yeah, just hanging around Kallie for one afternoon, I’ve learned a lot of words...
Kallie: Sorry. I know I talk too much...
Danny: There’s nothing wrong with being verbose.
Julian: Boom! That means she’s talkative, right?
Kallie: Yes, exactly!
Danny: See?
Payton: Yeah, you’ll get so good at Mr. Olson’s quizzes, you won’t even mind them anymore.
Danny: You mean, Julian won’t be averse.
Julian: Ha ha, yeah, right. You mean, I won’t hate them AS MUCH.
Danny: Yeah! And if Kallie helps you, you can go to the party. You can’t miss a Payton party.
Payton: It’s true! My parties are the best!
Danny: Payton is the paragon of a party hostess!
Julian: Yeah, her last party was epic!
Danny: And you did that awesome backflip into the pool!
Kallie: It sounds like quite the experience!
Julian: All right, Kallie. Let’s do this. You tutor me, and in return, I’ll definitely make sure you’ll have fun at Payton’s party. Deal?
Kallie: Sure! It’ll be real symbiotic! I mean, mutually beneficial! I mean, uh, cool for both of us!
Julian: I figured it out. I’ll see you after school. Where should I meet you?
Kallie: Oh! Um, I hope you don’t mind coming over to my house. My parents are so strict, they’d never let me go out with a guy. I mean, not like OUT out. Er. Yeah.
Julian: Great! See you then!
Julian: Hey, you guys are still here!
Payton: Yep! Just enjoying the view! Am I right, Kallie?
Kallie: I... uh... I mean... that’s... where to next?
Julian: Let’s go this way... we can see what the nerds are up to at the computer lab, and then we can swing by the library...
Kallie: Ooh, a library?
You, Julian, Payton, and Kallie walk around the school. Along the way, people introduce themselves to Kallie.
Kallie: Wow, there’s so many people at this school! I don’t know how you all remember everyone’s name.
Payton: It gets easier once you get to know everyone... Ooh! I have an AH-MAZING idea! I’m throwing a party! You should come!
Kallie: Um...
Danny: What’s wrong?
Kallie: Well, I... I’ve never been to a party... but I have always wanted to discover what it was like...
Julian: And you totally should. Hanging out with friends, listening to music, dancing... it doesn’t get much better than that...
Kallie: I’m not really a dancer.
Julian: I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it. And hey, if you’re worried, just find me, and I’ll make sure you have fun!
Kallie: Yeah, er, I mean... it sounds great... ...and completely terrifying. I mean... social situations and making friends... are not my forte. I get wordy when I’m nervous, and my extensive vocabulary doesn’t help. People usually have a hard time understanding me...
Danny: Aww, hey, you don’t have to worry about that. I understand you just fine.
Kallie: Are you sure?
Danny: I’d repeat myself, but that’d be redundant. See? You’re not the only one that uses big words.
Kallie: Hee hee...
Danny: So don’t worry about it.
Kallie: You don’t think this party will end in complete disaster?
Danny: No. It won’t be a debacle.
Kallie: Well, when you say it like that... I guess you really do understand me! Okay! I’ll go to the party! As long as I have you, Payton, and Julian, it’ll be great!
Payton: Hee hee, yes!
Julian: Uh, actually... I... I should probably skip this one...
Payton: What? Why?
Danny: You NEVER miss one of Payton’s parties! What could be so important that you can’t make it?
Julian sighs and holds out the vocab quiz your class got back from Mr. Olson. It has a big red zero on it.
Julian: I’ve flunked four vocab tests in a row, and if I don’t pass the quiz tomorrow, then I’m benches for the all-star football game next week!
Danny: Julian... I know you were having trouble, but I didn’t realize it was this bad...
Julian: Yeah, well, instead of partying, I’m studying vocab until my eyes bleed.
Kallie: Hey, I can help you study. I don’t know anything about parties or dancing, but I do know words! I can help you... I know I can!
Julian: Thanks, but... I don’t want to drag you down with me. We could be stuck studying for days...
Kallie: Don’t get down on yourself. I’m sure you know more than you think.
Danny: Yeah, just hanging around Kallie for one afternoon, I’ve learned a lot of words...
Kallie: Sorry. I know I talk too much...
Danny: There’s nothing wrong with being verbose.
Julian: Boom! That means she’s talkative, right?
Kallie: Yes, exactly!
Danny: See?
Payton: Yeah, you’ll get so good at Mr. Olson’s quizzes, you won’t even mind them anymore.
Danny: You mean, Julian won’t be averse.
Julian: Ha ha, yeah, right. You mean, I won’t hate them AS MUCH.
Danny: Yeah! And if Kallie helps you, you can go to the party. You can’t miss a Payton party.
Payton: It’s true! My parties are the best!
Danny: Payton is the paragon of a party hostess!
Julian: Yeah, her last party was epic!
Danny: And you did that awesome backflip into the pool!
Kallie: It sounds like quite the experience!
Julian: All right, Kallie. Let’s do this. You tutor me, and in return, I’ll definitely make sure you’ll have fun at Payton’s party. Deal?
Kallie: Sure! It’ll be real symbiotic! I mean, mutually beneficial! I mean, uh, cool for both of us!
Julian: I figured it out. I’ll see you after school. Where should I meet you?
Kallie: Oh! Um, I hope you don’t mind coming over to my house. My parents are so strict, they’d never let me go out with a guy. I mean, not like OUT out. Er. Yeah.
Julian: Great! See you then!
Vocab Words 5
Get ready to learn a new set of words! You show up at Kallie’s house the next afternoon.
Kallie: Danny! You actually came!
Danny: Yeah... is that okay?
Kallie: Oh, yes, of course! Um, come in!
You follow Kallie inside.
Danny: Julian’s running a little late, but he’ll be here soon.
Kallie: Mom, Dad, we’re going upstairs to study!
Kallie grabs your hand and pulls you upstairs to her room.
Kallie: Sorry about that. Um, full disclosure, I’ve never actually had anyone over for a study session before! I don’t want my parents to smother you with questions and carrot sticks.
Kallie opens her bedroom door and leads you in. The walls are painted cotton candy pink and adorned with pictures of teddy bears. A white, frilly lace canopy crowns the bed where a mountain of cute, stuffed animals sits on a bright purple bedspread that has a gigantic kitten on it.
Danny: Whoa. This is your room?
Kallie: Yes... is something wrong? Why do you look so surprised?
Danny: It’s just, er, when’s the last time you redecorated? Some of the stuff in here looks a little... young... for someone your age.
Kallie: Oh no! Really? It HAS been years since I’ve redone my room... It must look like a five-year old lives here! I’m absolutely mortified!
Danny: You don’t have to be embarrassed.
Kallie: Yes. I do. It’s silly. Strange. Indicative of a personality disorder.
Danny: I’ve just never seen so many stuffed bears and unicorns in one place before...
Kallie: Unicorns are noble beasts that embody honor, courage, and hope!
Danny: They’re also fictional, Kallie.
Kallie: I see your point... I kind of like them, but I guess it is a little odd to still have all these stuffed animals around now that I’m in high school.
Danny: Well, maybe a little. But it is YOUR room, so you can decorate it how you want.
Kallie: I’d definitely like to redecorate. I wish I could do it before Julian gets here.
Danny: Why do you care what Julian thinks?
Kallie: Oh, well, er... I mean, he just... ugh. I can’t believe he’s going to see my room like this!
Danny: We could change up how your room looks right now... if you wanted.
Kallie: But how? I don’t know how we’ll ameliorate the situation...
Danny: It’s okay. We’ll make it better. I’ll take down the teddy bear pictures, and you hide the stuffed animals.
Kallie: That is an excellent plan, Danny! Julian will be here any minute. We must move with celerity if we are to beat his arrival!
Danny: You mean, we have to move with quickness?
Kallie: Yes, that’s it!
You quickly collect the picture frames, while Kallie grabs half the stuffed animals in both arms.
Danny: Where can we store these?
Kallie: I don’t know! I... I can’t think! I’m sorry I’m so frenetic. I get like this under pressure!
Danny: No need to get frantic. We can... stick them under the bed!
Kallie: Wait, you probably shouldn’t look--
You lift the bedskirt before she can finish.
Danny: There are even more stuffed animals under here!
Kallie: Yeah... That’s where I hide my cache of REALLY embarrassing animal friends...
Danny: You have quite the secret stash. I like how these stuffed animals are dressed like the entire cast of Naruto though!
Kallie: Oh, great...
Danny: Don’t worry. It looks like there’s still some room if we cram it all in.
Together, you successfully stow the teddy bear pictures and half the stuffed animals underneath the bed.
Kallie: Hey, it’s looking better already!
Danny: Now we just need to deal with the rest of the toys...
That’s when you hear the sound of the doorbell.
Kallie: Uh-oh, Julian’s here! Quick! Where should the rest of the stuffed animals go?
Danny: The closet!
You and Kallie jump to cram the rest of the stuffed animals in her closet as Julian’s feet pound up the stairs...
Kallie: Danny! You actually came!
Danny: Yeah... is that okay?
Kallie: Oh, yes, of course! Um, come in!
You follow Kallie inside.
Danny: Julian’s running a little late, but he’ll be here soon.
Kallie: Mom, Dad, we’re going upstairs to study!
Kallie grabs your hand and pulls you upstairs to her room.
Kallie: Sorry about that. Um, full disclosure, I’ve never actually had anyone over for a study session before! I don’t want my parents to smother you with questions and carrot sticks.
Kallie opens her bedroom door and leads you in. The walls are painted cotton candy pink and adorned with pictures of teddy bears. A white, frilly lace canopy crowns the bed where a mountain of cute, stuffed animals sits on a bright purple bedspread that has a gigantic kitten on it.
Danny: Whoa. This is your room?
Kallie: Yes... is something wrong? Why do you look so surprised?
Danny: It’s just, er, when’s the last time you redecorated? Some of the stuff in here looks a little... young... for someone your age.
Kallie: Oh no! Really? It HAS been years since I’ve redone my room... It must look like a five-year old lives here! I’m absolutely mortified!
Danny: You don’t have to be embarrassed.
Kallie: Yes. I do. It’s silly. Strange. Indicative of a personality disorder.
Danny: I’ve just never seen so many stuffed bears and unicorns in one place before...
Kallie: Unicorns are noble beasts that embody honor, courage, and hope!
Danny: They’re also fictional, Kallie.
Kallie: I see your point... I kind of like them, but I guess it is a little odd to still have all these stuffed animals around now that I’m in high school.
Danny: Well, maybe a little. But it is YOUR room, so you can decorate it how you want.
Kallie: I’d definitely like to redecorate. I wish I could do it before Julian gets here.
Danny: Why do you care what Julian thinks?
Kallie: Oh, well, er... I mean, he just... ugh. I can’t believe he’s going to see my room like this!
Danny: We could change up how your room looks right now... if you wanted.
Kallie: But how? I don’t know how we’ll ameliorate the situation...
Danny: It’s okay. We’ll make it better. I’ll take down the teddy bear pictures, and you hide the stuffed animals.
Kallie: That is an excellent plan, Danny! Julian will be here any minute. We must move with celerity if we are to beat his arrival!
Danny: You mean, we have to move with quickness?
Kallie: Yes, that’s it!
You quickly collect the picture frames, while Kallie grabs half the stuffed animals in both arms.
Danny: Where can we store these?
Kallie: I don’t know! I... I can’t think! I’m sorry I’m so frenetic. I get like this under pressure!
Danny: No need to get frantic. We can... stick them under the bed!
Kallie: Wait, you probably shouldn’t look--
You lift the bedskirt before she can finish.
Danny: There are even more stuffed animals under here!
Kallie: Yeah... That’s where I hide my cache of REALLY embarrassing animal friends...
Danny: You have quite the secret stash. I like how these stuffed animals are dressed like the entire cast of Naruto though!
Kallie: Oh, great...
Danny: Don’t worry. It looks like there’s still some room if we cram it all in.
Together, you successfully stow the teddy bear pictures and half the stuffed animals underneath the bed.
Kallie: Hey, it’s looking better already!
Danny: Now we just need to deal with the rest of the toys...
That’s when you hear the sound of the doorbell.
Kallie: Uh-oh, Julian’s here! Quick! Where should the rest of the stuffed animals go?
Danny: The closet!
You and Kallie jump to cram the rest of the stuffed animals in her closet as Julian’s feet pound up the stairs...
Vocab Words 8
Hoping to clean Kallie’s room before Julian gets there, you finish cramming her stuffed animals into the closet. Kallie closes the doors tight behind them.
Kallie: Anything else?
Danny: One last thing!
You flip the comforter on Kallie’s bed over, hiding the cartoon kitten on top and showing off a more sedate polka-dot pattern. You straighten the blanket right as Julian walks in!
Julian: Hey!
Kallie: Hi, Julian!
Danny: Hi, Julian!
Kallie: I’m glad you were able to make it up here without too much trouble. My parents can be a bit... interrogative. They like to ask people questions.
Julian: Lucky for me, they were pretty eager to get back to watching some documentary on PBS. So what’s up with you guys? You look out of breath.
Kallie: I... um... no! Of course we’re not out of breath. That would imply that Danny and I underwent some sort of physical exertion that would be--
You elbow her.
Kallie: I mean, we were just studying. Right, Danny? Let’s show Julian what we’ve learned. It might look like we’re out of breath... But we’re not panicking or anything!
Danny: Right! We’re not frenetic.
Julian: Are you sure? You seem pretty worked up.
Kallie: Nope! We’re just, uh, embarrassed that we started without you!
Danny: Yeah, we’re really mortified.
Julian: Oh. Well. No need to feel bad. I’m the one who was late.
Julian looks around the room for a place to put his bag.
Julian: Hey, nice room, Kallie. It’s cute.
Kallie: Oh! Thanks!
Julian: Anyway, should we get started? What words have you gone over so far?
Kallie: Uh, here, we can review by using the words in context! Danny helped me fix a problem I was having.
Danny: Yep, I was happy to ameliorate the situation.
Julian: ‘Ameliorate’, huh? That means, ‘to fix’? That’s something Danny’s great at.
Kallie: Danny’s helped you too?
Julian: Yeah. Without Danny, I never would’ve taken home the victory at our last football game...
Danny: That’s not true! You have a trophy cache. You didn’t need my help getting those.
Kallie: Is that true? You must be really good to have so many.
Julian: Heh, I do okay. Looks like you’re not doing too bad yourself.
Julian walks over to Kallie’s bookshelf where several trophies gleam. Kallie blushes.
Julian: ‘Winner of the County Spelling Bee’, ‘First Place at the National Academic Bowl’... this is pretty cool. You’re really smart. It’s no wonder that you’re so good at vocab.
Kallie: I’m sure you can be good at it too! You shouldn’t doubt yourself.
Julian: Well, I’ve learned more standing in your room for five minutes than I have in Olson’s class all year.
Kallie: Thank how much we could learn in an hour!
Danny: We’re certainly learning words with celerity.
Kallie: Nice one, Danny! Well, we’ve already reviewed some words. Let’s go over the rest!
You and Kallie set up your books on her floor. Julian takes the space right next to Kallie.
Julian: You don’t mind me reading over your shoulder, do you?
Kallie: Yes! No! I mean, uh, yes? Ahem, that would be acceptable... I mean, awesome... er, go ahead.
You study for the rest of the afternoon, and at the end of it, Julian packs up his books.
Kallie: So, how do you guys feel?
Danny: Great. Thanks, Kallie! I have a good feeling about tomorrow’s quiz!
Julian: Yeah, me too. You really know your vocab.
Kallie: Oh, well, thanks! I spend a lot of my time writing. I love words. They’re so beautiful, you know.
Julian: Not how I would’ve described them, but... sure. Well, thank you. I’ll see you tomorrow! And don’t forget. If I ace this quiz... you’re going to Payton’s party, and we’re going to have a lot of fun!
Kallie: Okay! Good luck, both of you!
Later, after the test, you and Kallie are sitting together outside the school.
Kallie: Danny... I didn’t get a chance to thank you, yet. For helping me hide all of my embarrassing childish stuffed animals.
Danny: Heh. I’m glad I could help.
Kallie: I’m not usually so disorganized. I just... I guess I never saw my room through someone else’s eyes. My parents are the only ones I usually spend time with, and they seem to have forgotten that I’m a teenager now.
Danny: Well, that means you just have to remind them!
Kallie: Yes. Yes, I should. It’s just sometimes, I feel bad bringing up anything like that. Ever since... oh!
Kallie trails off as Julian comes running up!
Julian: Guess who’s playing in the all-star game?
Kallie: Based on the circumstances, the logical conclusion would be...
Julian sweeps Kallie up and spins her in a circle!
Kallie: Julian!
Julian: And you know what that means... cancel your plans, because we’re going to Payton’s party!
Kallie: Anything else?
Danny: One last thing!
You flip the comforter on Kallie’s bed over, hiding the cartoon kitten on top and showing off a more sedate polka-dot pattern. You straighten the blanket right as Julian walks in!
Julian: Hey!
Kallie: Hi, Julian!
Danny: Hi, Julian!
Kallie: I’m glad you were able to make it up here without too much trouble. My parents can be a bit... interrogative. They like to ask people questions.
Julian: Lucky for me, they were pretty eager to get back to watching some documentary on PBS. So what’s up with you guys? You look out of breath.
Kallie: I... um... no! Of course we’re not out of breath. That would imply that Danny and I underwent some sort of physical exertion that would be--
You elbow her.
Kallie: I mean, we were just studying. Right, Danny? Let’s show Julian what we’ve learned. It might look like we’re out of breath... But we’re not panicking or anything!
Danny: Right! We’re not frenetic.
Julian: Are you sure? You seem pretty worked up.
Kallie: Nope! We’re just, uh, embarrassed that we started without you!
Danny: Yeah, we’re really mortified.
Julian: Oh. Well. No need to feel bad. I’m the one who was late.
Julian looks around the room for a place to put his bag.
Julian: Hey, nice room, Kallie. It’s cute.
Kallie: Oh! Thanks!
Julian: Anyway, should we get started? What words have you gone over so far?
Kallie: Uh, here, we can review by using the words in context! Danny helped me fix a problem I was having.
Danny: Yep, I was happy to ameliorate the situation.
Julian: ‘Ameliorate’, huh? That means, ‘to fix’? That’s something Danny’s great at.
Kallie: Danny’s helped you too?
Julian: Yeah. Without Danny, I never would’ve taken home the victory at our last football game...
Danny: That’s not true! You have a trophy cache. You didn’t need my help getting those.
Kallie: Is that true? You must be really good to have so many.
Julian: Heh, I do okay. Looks like you’re not doing too bad yourself.
Julian walks over to Kallie’s bookshelf where several trophies gleam. Kallie blushes.
Julian: ‘Winner of the County Spelling Bee’, ‘First Place at the National Academic Bowl’... this is pretty cool. You’re really smart. It’s no wonder that you’re so good at vocab.
Kallie: I’m sure you can be good at it too! You shouldn’t doubt yourself.
Julian: Well, I’ve learned more standing in your room for five minutes than I have in Olson’s class all year.
Kallie: Thank how much we could learn in an hour!
Danny: We’re certainly learning words with celerity.
Kallie: Nice one, Danny! Well, we’ve already reviewed some words. Let’s go over the rest!
You and Kallie set up your books on her floor. Julian takes the space right next to Kallie.
Julian: You don’t mind me reading over your shoulder, do you?
Kallie: Yes! No! I mean, uh, yes? Ahem, that would be acceptable... I mean, awesome... er, go ahead.
You study for the rest of the afternoon, and at the end of it, Julian packs up his books.
Kallie: So, how do you guys feel?
Danny: Great. Thanks, Kallie! I have a good feeling about tomorrow’s quiz!
Julian: Yeah, me too. You really know your vocab.
Kallie: Oh, well, thanks! I spend a lot of my time writing. I love words. They’re so beautiful, you know.
Julian: Not how I would’ve described them, but... sure. Well, thank you. I’ll see you tomorrow! And don’t forget. If I ace this quiz... you’re going to Payton’s party, and we’re going to have a lot of fun!
Kallie: Okay! Good luck, both of you!
Later, after the test, you and Kallie are sitting together outside the school.
Kallie: Danny... I didn’t get a chance to thank you, yet. For helping me hide all of my embarrassing childish stuffed animals.
Danny: Heh. I’m glad I could help.
Kallie: I’m not usually so disorganized. I just... I guess I never saw my room through someone else’s eyes. My parents are the only ones I usually spend time with, and they seem to have forgotten that I’m a teenager now.
Danny: Well, that means you just have to remind them!
Kallie: Yes. Yes, I should. It’s just sometimes, I feel bad bringing up anything like that. Ever since... oh!
Kallie trails off as Julian comes running up!
Julian: Guess who’s playing in the all-star game?
Kallie: Based on the circumstances, the logical conclusion would be...
Julian sweeps Kallie up and spins her in a circle!
Kallie: Julian!
Julian: And you know what that means... cancel your plans, because we’re going to Payton’s party!
Vocab Words 10
It’s the night of Payton’s party, and you’re helping her with the finishing touches on the decorations and snacks out by the pool!
Payton: Squee! Everything looks ah-mazing! I love pool parties!
Danny: You love all parties.
Payton: Well, what’s not to love? Besides, we have to make this one extra-special... it’s Kallie’s first high school party! How are we doing on time? The party starts at eight?
Danny: It’s exactly eight now.
Payton: Perfect!
Danny: Perfect? No one’s shown up yet.
Payton: Well, of course not, Danny! The next hour is all about you and me nibbling on snacks and watching ‘Silly Little Gossips’ as we wait for guests to arrive! You’d have to be clueless to show up at a party exactly on...
The doorbell to Payton’s house rings!
Payton: ...time.
You and Payton answer the door.
Kallie: Hi, uh, I’m here! You said, eight, right?
Kallie steps into the room and hands Payton a small, potted plant.
Kallie: I brought this for you. It’s a tribute to my host!
Payton: Is that, like, a Hunger Games thing?
Kallie: Er, no... A tribute is my thanks to you for inviting me tonight...
Danny: You might even call it a gift.
Payton: Oooooh! I like gifts! Thank you! I’ve always wanted a... a... what is this?
Kallie: A succulent.
Payton: It’s super cute! I’ve always wanted a, uh, suction plant. Cool. Come in!
Kallie: Where is everyone? Did I come too late? Did everyone leave?
Danny: Ha ha, no, you’re not late... in fact, you’re early.
Payton: Yeah. Party rules. People usually don’t show up until an hour after the party starts!
Kallie: If I’m here early, it’s an unwitting mistake!
Danny: It’s okay that you were unaware.
Payton: Yeah, it’s your very first party, isn’t it?
Kallie: It is. So is there anything else I’m missing? Am I attired properly?
Payton: Well...
Kallie: ‘Well’ what?
Payton: I don’t want to offend you, but... if you wanted some pointers, I could help you out...
Kallie: Actually, I would be relieved and grateful for the assistance.
Payton: OOH, YAY! I love love LOVE makeovers! This is going to be so much fun! Hurry up! Let’s go to my room!
You, Payton, and Kallie head up to Payton’s room.
Payton: Let’s start with your shoes, okay? You’re not far off, but you shouldn’t wear THOSE sneakers with that skirt...
Payton rummages around in her closet.
Payton: Ooh! Here! These heels are totally killer, but they’re just SO cute!
Kallie: Killer?
Payton tosses Kallie a pair of very high, high heels. Kallie gulps.
Kallie: I can’t wear these... I have some qualms about my ability to walk in them...
Danny: I know you have some doubts. But you should try them out. Practice makes perfect.
Payton: And walking stops wobbling!
Kallie: That is alliterative, so it must be true...
Kallie tries the shoes on, stands up, and teeters on them as she walks around the room.
Kallie: Whoa! I’m certainly going to trip in these! I seem to be inept at walking in heels!
Danny: You don’t look clumsy.
At that moment, Kallie trips, careening into Payton’s bed.
Kallie: Oh!
Payton: Spoke too soon.
You and Payton help her up.
Payton: Oof. There you go...
Kallie: Do you have anything less vertical, perhaps?
Payton: Nothing that would go as perfectly with that top! Don’t worry, you’ll get used to them, I promise! Give it an hour. We all make sacrifices for beauty!
Kallie: We do?
Payton: Now, let’s talk about makeup! You’re lucky your skin’s so nice! I won’t have to do much with concealer... but you could use some eyeshadow, the brighter the better!
Kallie: I have a penchant for the color green, if that’s possible...
Danny: You mean, green is the color you like.
Kallie: Yes, exactly.
Payton: Oh! Well, it’s a good thing green is just perfect for you! Let’s see...
Payton cups Kallie’s chin and twists her face left and right, picking up a makeup brush.
Payton: All right, I’ve got it... your look is going to be amazing!
Payton: Squee! Everything looks ah-mazing! I love pool parties!
Danny: You love all parties.
Payton: Well, what’s not to love? Besides, we have to make this one extra-special... it’s Kallie’s first high school party! How are we doing on time? The party starts at eight?
Danny: It’s exactly eight now.
Payton: Perfect!
Danny: Perfect? No one’s shown up yet.
Payton: Well, of course not, Danny! The next hour is all about you and me nibbling on snacks and watching ‘Silly Little Gossips’ as we wait for guests to arrive! You’d have to be clueless to show up at a party exactly on...
The doorbell to Payton’s house rings!
Payton: ...time.
You and Payton answer the door.
Kallie: Hi, uh, I’m here! You said, eight, right?
Kallie steps into the room and hands Payton a small, potted plant.
Kallie: I brought this for you. It’s a tribute to my host!
Payton: Is that, like, a Hunger Games thing?
Kallie: Er, no... A tribute is my thanks to you for inviting me tonight...
Danny: You might even call it a gift.
Payton: Oooooh! I like gifts! Thank you! I’ve always wanted a... a... what is this?
Kallie: A succulent.
Payton: It’s super cute! I’ve always wanted a, uh, suction plant. Cool. Come in!
Kallie: Where is everyone? Did I come too late? Did everyone leave?
Danny: Ha ha, no, you’re not late... in fact, you’re early.
Payton: Yeah. Party rules. People usually don’t show up until an hour after the party starts!
Kallie: If I’m here early, it’s an unwitting mistake!
Danny: It’s okay that you were unaware.
Payton: Yeah, it’s your very first party, isn’t it?
Kallie: It is. So is there anything else I’m missing? Am I attired properly?
Payton: Well...
Kallie: ‘Well’ what?
Payton: I don’t want to offend you, but... if you wanted some pointers, I could help you out...
Kallie: Actually, I would be relieved and grateful for the assistance.
Payton: OOH, YAY! I love love LOVE makeovers! This is going to be so much fun! Hurry up! Let’s go to my room!
You, Payton, and Kallie head up to Payton’s room.
Payton: Let’s start with your shoes, okay? You’re not far off, but you shouldn’t wear THOSE sneakers with that skirt...
Payton rummages around in her closet.
Payton: Ooh! Here! These heels are totally killer, but they’re just SO cute!
Kallie: Killer?
Payton tosses Kallie a pair of very high, high heels. Kallie gulps.
Kallie: I can’t wear these... I have some qualms about my ability to walk in them...
Danny: I know you have some doubts. But you should try them out. Practice makes perfect.
Payton: And walking stops wobbling!
Kallie: That is alliterative, so it must be true...
Kallie tries the shoes on, stands up, and teeters on them as she walks around the room.
Kallie: Whoa! I’m certainly going to trip in these! I seem to be inept at walking in heels!
Danny: You don’t look clumsy.
At that moment, Kallie trips, careening into Payton’s bed.
Kallie: Oh!
Payton: Spoke too soon.
You and Payton help her up.
Payton: Oof. There you go...
Kallie: Do you have anything less vertical, perhaps?
Payton: Nothing that would go as perfectly with that top! Don’t worry, you’ll get used to them, I promise! Give it an hour. We all make sacrifices for beauty!
Kallie: We do?
Payton: Now, let’s talk about makeup! You’re lucky your skin’s so nice! I won’t have to do much with concealer... but you could use some eyeshadow, the brighter the better!
Kallie: I have a penchant for the color green, if that’s possible...
Danny: You mean, green is the color you like.
Kallie: Yes, exactly.
Payton: Oh! Well, it’s a good thing green is just perfect for you! Let’s see...
Payton cups Kallie’s chin and twists her face left and right, picking up a makeup brush.
Payton: All right, I’ve got it... your look is going to be amazing!
Vocab Words 13
At Payton’s house... The party is just getting started, but Payton is still working on Kallie’s makeup!
Danny: Hey Payton, people are starting to arrive for the party! How’s it going in there? Is Kallie ready?
Payton: I am... done! Voila! There you go!
Payton holds up a mirror to Kallie.
Kallie: Wow, I actually look really pretty...
Payton: Now, come on, everyone’s waiting for us!
You and Payton head downstairs to greet the guests. You notice Kallie hanging back.
Danny: Hey, what’s wrong? Nervous?
Kallie: Extremely so. My entire stomach feels like it’s flipped over. I doubt my ability to converse with my peers on topics of interest to them.
Danny: I know you have some qualms. But you’ll be fine. Everyone’s really nice here.
Kallie: Okay, if you say so. Um, do you know where Julian is?
Danny: I’m sure he’ll be here soon. In the meantime, you should come meet my friend, Autumn!
You lead Kallie over to Autumn who smiles.
Autumn: Hi, Kallie!
Kallie: Hello, I’m Kallie! Oh, er, I’m sorry. That was redun-- I mean, repetitive. I’m really, um, ebullient? No, ecstatic? No... ‘happy’! I’m really HAPPY to meet you!
Autumn: ...um, me too. So you’re new to Danny’s school, right?
Kallie: Not exactly. I’m not a full-time student. I simply matriculated--er, enrolled in one class a couple days ago. It’s been an illuminating... I mean, an enlightening... I mean, an eye- opening experience!
Autumn: Oh, that’s... good? Um, I hope you don’t mind me asking, but are you okay? You seem really distracted.
Danny: Yeah, what’s up, Kallie?
Kallie: I’m really garbling this all up, aren’t I? I’m simply... um... unfamiliar with how to conduct a successful social interaction.
Danny: You mean, you’re feeling inept.
Kallie: Exactly. I can’t help it, Danny. When I was younger, my parents sent me to summer camp to expose me to other people my age... And it was awful. I’d try to say something and completely trip over myself. It got so excruciating that everyone stopped talking to me.
Autumn: Oh no, that’s terrible!
Kallie: I do seem to keep getting into these situations...
Danny: Almost as if you had a penchant for it?
Kallie: Ha, I guess you could say that.
Danny: Look, Kallie, you’re trying too hard to fit in by hiding who you really are. That never works out. You like big words. Use them. Because you trying to blend in just confuses everyone.
Kallie: I never thought it was possible to be accepted by being myself... Or that i’d have so many people who care about me!
Danny: Well, you’re an unwitting friend to all of us now!
Kallie: Now who’s using the intimidating vocabulary?
Danny: I learned that from you. Don’t be afraid to be who you are.
Autumn: Danny’s right. You don’t have to change to impress anyone.
Kallie: Thank you for saying that. I feel so lucky that I’ve met you, Danny. I don’t know how I can repay you for your kindness.
Danny: You can write me a tribute. Like a ballad, or a song, something really awesome and awe-inspiring!
Kallie: If that’s what you want! Hee hee!
At that moment, Payton drops by.
Payton: Hey, guys, I’m glad I found you! Autumn, can you help me? I need some help refreshing the punch bowl...
Autumn: Of course!
Payton: We’ll see you later, Kallie!
As Payton and Autumn head off, Julian makes his way through the crowd over to Kallie.
Julian: Kallie! Hey! You look nice.
Kallie: I do?
Kallie nervously tucks her hair behind her ear.
Kallie: Um, thank you very much.
Julian: You ready to have fun?
Kallie: Most definitely, yes!
Danny: Hey Payton, people are starting to arrive for the party! How’s it going in there? Is Kallie ready?
Payton: I am... done! Voila! There you go!
Payton holds up a mirror to Kallie.
Kallie: Wow, I actually look really pretty...
Payton: Now, come on, everyone’s waiting for us!
You and Payton head downstairs to greet the guests. You notice Kallie hanging back.
Danny: Hey, what’s wrong? Nervous?
Kallie: Extremely so. My entire stomach feels like it’s flipped over. I doubt my ability to converse with my peers on topics of interest to them.
Danny: I know you have some qualms. But you’ll be fine. Everyone’s really nice here.
Kallie: Okay, if you say so. Um, do you know where Julian is?
Danny: I’m sure he’ll be here soon. In the meantime, you should come meet my friend, Autumn!
You lead Kallie over to Autumn who smiles.
Autumn: Hi, Kallie!
Kallie: Hello, I’m Kallie! Oh, er, I’m sorry. That was redun-- I mean, repetitive. I’m really, um, ebullient? No, ecstatic? No... ‘happy’! I’m really HAPPY to meet you!
Autumn: ...um, me too. So you’re new to Danny’s school, right?
Kallie: Not exactly. I’m not a full-time student. I simply matriculated--er, enrolled in one class a couple days ago. It’s been an illuminating... I mean, an enlightening... I mean, an eye- opening experience!
Autumn: Oh, that’s... good? Um, I hope you don’t mind me asking, but are you okay? You seem really distracted.
Danny: Yeah, what’s up, Kallie?
Kallie: I’m really garbling this all up, aren’t I? I’m simply... um... unfamiliar with how to conduct a successful social interaction.
Danny: You mean, you’re feeling inept.
Kallie: Exactly. I can’t help it, Danny. When I was younger, my parents sent me to summer camp to expose me to other people my age... And it was awful. I’d try to say something and completely trip over myself. It got so excruciating that everyone stopped talking to me.
Autumn: Oh no, that’s terrible!
Kallie: I do seem to keep getting into these situations...
Danny: Almost as if you had a penchant for it?
Kallie: Ha, I guess you could say that.
Danny: Look, Kallie, you’re trying too hard to fit in by hiding who you really are. That never works out. You like big words. Use them. Because you trying to blend in just confuses everyone.
Kallie: I never thought it was possible to be accepted by being myself... Or that i’d have so many people who care about me!
Danny: Well, you’re an unwitting friend to all of us now!
Kallie: Now who’s using the intimidating vocabulary?
Danny: I learned that from you. Don’t be afraid to be who you are.
Autumn: Danny’s right. You don’t have to change to impress anyone.
Kallie: Thank you for saying that. I feel so lucky that I’ve met you, Danny. I don’t know how I can repay you for your kindness.
Danny: You can write me a tribute. Like a ballad, or a song, something really awesome and awe-inspiring!
Kallie: If that’s what you want! Hee hee!
At that moment, Payton drops by.
Payton: Hey, guys, I’m glad I found you! Autumn, can you help me? I need some help refreshing the punch bowl...
Autumn: Of course!
Payton: We’ll see you later, Kallie!
As Payton and Autumn head off, Julian makes his way through the crowd over to Kallie.
Julian: Kallie! Hey! You look nice.
Kallie: I do?
Kallie nervously tucks her hair behind her ear.
Kallie: Um, thank you very much.
Julian: You ready to have fun?
Kallie: Most definitely, yes!
Vocab Words 14
At Payton’s party, Julian is fulfilling his promise to show Kallie around...
Kallie: So, Julian, what precisely does one do when arriving at a party?
Danny: Yeah, where do you even start?
Julian: Well, the first thing I do is go around and say hey to everyone. You know, so they know I’m here! Kallie, did you do that yet?
Kallie: Not exactly...
Julian: Then now is the perfect time!
You follow Julian as he steers Kallie into the middle of the living room.
Julian: Kallie, this is everyone... everyone, this is Kallie!
All the party-goers wave ‘hi’ to Kallie. She blushes beet red.
Kallie: Um, hello...
Julian: Kallie’s tutoring me in vocab. She’s really advanced. Hey, Kallie, you should impress us with some fancy words!
Kallie: Oh, um... this is quite the enjoyable party we’re at! It’s truly a jubilant event!
Danny: ‘Jubilant’ means happy, right?
Kallie: Yes, it does!
Julian: See? Super smart. Anyway, now that’s over with... are you hungry? Payton’s got the best food.
Kallie: Yes! Comestibles sound perfectly delicious right about now...
Danny: Comestibles? You mean food?
Kallie: Er, right. Snacks would be lovely.
Julian: I got it. Right this way... we’ve got your chips, your dip, your fun-sized candy...
Kallie grabs one of the chocolate bars.
Kallie: I didn’t realize that fun-sized meant petite! They’re so cute!
Danny: And fun?
Kallie: I suppose so!
Payton: Come on, you guys! Hurry up and grab your food! We’re playing charades!
You, Julian, and Kallie walk over to the living room where people have divided into two teams. Payton points to some empty chairs.
Payton: You guys are on the other team! And you’re going down!
Julian: Don’t talk big unless you can bring it!
Kallie: I thought you weren’t supposed to talk at all in charades... I mean, I’ve never actually played it, but I did see this movie once in which they did... Well... I read the Wikipedia summary of a movie in which they did...
Danny: You know the rules, right?
Kallie: It’s acting something out while your teammates guess what you’re doing, right? You have to improvise creatively!
Danny: Yeah, you make to make it up.
Kallie: Improvising’s not really my strong suit.
Julian: Hey, no need to worry. It’s just a game. The point is to relax and have fun.
Payton: Danny’s team... your turn! Who’s up first?
Kallie: Uh... um...
Julian: I’ll go.
Julian takes a slip of paper from the bowl and starts acting. First, he makes a ‘C’ with his forefinger and thumb, closing the distance slowly between them.
Danny: Uh... what is that?
Kallie: I know! He’s making the gesture for something ‘not large’, something miniscule!
Danny: Oh, you mean small.
Julian nods, moving on to the next words. He shakes his head furiously and runs around the room.
Kallie: Uh, uh, it’s a... tiny dissenting sprinter!
Payton: That’s... not a thing?
Danny: A short-distance runner?
Julian tries again. He strikes his foot on the ground as if pawing it. He shakes his head again as if tossing his head.
Kallie: Ooh! I got it! He’s pawing the ground and neighing! He’s an equine! A very small equine!
Julian gestures for you both to keep guessing.
Danny: A very small equine... oh! She means ‘Little Pony’! ‘My Little Pony’!
Julian: YEAH! Got it in... well, four. But good enough!
Julian high-fives you and Kallie!
Kallie: Yes!
You and your friends go through several rounds, and eventually the two teams are tied!
Payton: Last round! If Danny’s team guesses this, they win! Kallie, it’s all up to you!
Kallie: It is? I don’t know if I can do it...
Julian: It’s okay, Kallie. You’ve got this!
Kallie nods and pulls a paper slip out of a bowl. She reads it, looks at you nervously, and holds up three fingers.
Danny: Three words!
Kallie holds up one finger, then mimes slipping a ring on her finger ad holding a bouquet.
Julian: Bride! The first word is bride!
Kallie: ...!
Kallie holds up her third finger. She starts to walk stiffly in a circle, her arms outstretched, her face contorted in a gruesome grimace.
Julian: Zombie! Bride of the Zombie Murderer! Nailed it!
Danny: No, it’s the Bride of Frankenstein!
Kallie: YES!
Julian: And that’s game! We won, Payton!
Payton: What? No way!
Danny: Woo!
Kallie: I’m SO glad that you guessed it!
Julian: We make a pretty awesome team, huh?
Danny: Yeah, we do!
Julian: Victory drinks! I’m grabbing a soda. Kallie, you want one?
Kallie: That would be lovely! After shouting out all those answers, my mouth’s a little dry. I’m parched.
Danny: Yeah, I’m also thirsty.
Kallie: Exactly! Is there lemonade?
Julian: I’ll go check.
Danny: Are you having fun?
Kallie: Yeah! Julian’s so sweet. I’m surprised he isn’t dating anyone. I would think many girls would love to be his paramour!
Danny: Maybe he’s waiting for the right person. It’s awfully nice of him to help you settle in...
Kallie blushes and looks down as Julian walks back with three drinks, tossing a soda can to you and handing a lemonade to Kallie.
Kallie: So... that was a fun party! Thanks for showing me around!
Julian: You make it sound like this is the end of the night...
Kallie: Oh! There’s more?
Julian: Are you kidding? The party’s just getting started!
Kallie: So, Julian, what precisely does one do when arriving at a party?
Danny: Yeah, where do you even start?
Julian: Well, the first thing I do is go around and say hey to everyone. You know, so they know I’m here! Kallie, did you do that yet?
Kallie: Not exactly...
Julian: Then now is the perfect time!
You follow Julian as he steers Kallie into the middle of the living room.
Julian: Kallie, this is everyone... everyone, this is Kallie!
All the party-goers wave ‘hi’ to Kallie. She blushes beet red.
Kallie: Um, hello...
Julian: Kallie’s tutoring me in vocab. She’s really advanced. Hey, Kallie, you should impress us with some fancy words!
Kallie: Oh, um... this is quite the enjoyable party we’re at! It’s truly a jubilant event!
Danny: ‘Jubilant’ means happy, right?
Kallie: Yes, it does!
Julian: See? Super smart. Anyway, now that’s over with... are you hungry? Payton’s got the best food.
Kallie: Yes! Comestibles sound perfectly delicious right about now...
Danny: Comestibles? You mean food?
Kallie: Er, right. Snacks would be lovely.
Julian: I got it. Right this way... we’ve got your chips, your dip, your fun-sized candy...
Kallie grabs one of the chocolate bars.
Kallie: I didn’t realize that fun-sized meant petite! They’re so cute!
Danny: And fun?
Kallie: I suppose so!
Payton: Come on, you guys! Hurry up and grab your food! We’re playing charades!
You, Julian, and Kallie walk over to the living room where people have divided into two teams. Payton points to some empty chairs.
Payton: You guys are on the other team! And you’re going down!
Julian: Don’t talk big unless you can bring it!
Kallie: I thought you weren’t supposed to talk at all in charades... I mean, I’ve never actually played it, but I did see this movie once in which they did... Well... I read the Wikipedia summary of a movie in which they did...
Danny: You know the rules, right?
Kallie: It’s acting something out while your teammates guess what you’re doing, right? You have to improvise creatively!
Danny: Yeah, you make to make it up.
Kallie: Improvising’s not really my strong suit.
Julian: Hey, no need to worry. It’s just a game. The point is to relax and have fun.
Payton: Danny’s team... your turn! Who’s up first?
Kallie: Uh... um...
Julian: I’ll go.
Julian takes a slip of paper from the bowl and starts acting. First, he makes a ‘C’ with his forefinger and thumb, closing the distance slowly between them.
Danny: Uh... what is that?
Kallie: I know! He’s making the gesture for something ‘not large’, something miniscule!
Danny: Oh, you mean small.
Julian nods, moving on to the next words. He shakes his head furiously and runs around the room.
Kallie: Uh, uh, it’s a... tiny dissenting sprinter!
Payton: That’s... not a thing?
Danny: A short-distance runner?
Julian tries again. He strikes his foot on the ground as if pawing it. He shakes his head again as if tossing his head.
Kallie: Ooh! I got it! He’s pawing the ground and neighing! He’s an equine! A very small equine!
Julian gestures for you both to keep guessing.
Danny: A very small equine... oh! She means ‘Little Pony’! ‘My Little Pony’!
Julian: YEAH! Got it in... well, four. But good enough!
Julian high-fives you and Kallie!
Kallie: Yes!
You and your friends go through several rounds, and eventually the two teams are tied!
Payton: Last round! If Danny’s team guesses this, they win! Kallie, it’s all up to you!
Kallie: It is? I don’t know if I can do it...
Julian: It’s okay, Kallie. You’ve got this!
Kallie nods and pulls a paper slip out of a bowl. She reads it, looks at you nervously, and holds up three fingers.
Danny: Three words!
Kallie holds up one finger, then mimes slipping a ring on her finger ad holding a bouquet.
Julian: Bride! The first word is bride!
Kallie: ...!
Kallie holds up her third finger. She starts to walk stiffly in a circle, her arms outstretched, her face contorted in a gruesome grimace.
Julian: Zombie! Bride of the Zombie Murderer! Nailed it!
Danny: No, it’s the Bride of Frankenstein!
Kallie: YES!
Julian: And that’s game! We won, Payton!
Payton: What? No way!
Danny: Woo!
Kallie: I’m SO glad that you guessed it!
Julian: We make a pretty awesome team, huh?
Danny: Yeah, we do!
Julian: Victory drinks! I’m grabbing a soda. Kallie, you want one?
Kallie: That would be lovely! After shouting out all those answers, my mouth’s a little dry. I’m parched.
Danny: Yeah, I’m also thirsty.
Kallie: Exactly! Is there lemonade?
Julian: I’ll go check.
Danny: Are you having fun?
Kallie: Yeah! Julian’s so sweet. I’m surprised he isn’t dating anyone. I would think many girls would love to be his paramour!
Danny: Maybe he’s waiting for the right person. It’s awfully nice of him to help you settle in...
Kallie blushes and looks down as Julian walks back with three drinks, tossing a soda can to you and handing a lemonade to Kallie.
Kallie: So... that was a fun party! Thanks for showing me around!
Julian: You make it sound like this is the end of the night...
Kallie: Oh! There’s more?
Julian: Are you kidding? The party’s just getting started!
Vocab Words 17
At Payton’s party, you and Julian continue to show Kallie around!
Kallie: So what’s up next? What would make this the quintessential high school party?
Julian: Well, you can’t leave a high school party without going on a little crazy on the dance floor.
Kallie: Oh really?
Julian: Oh man, is this some crazy Footloose thing where you’ve never danced before in your life?
Kallie: Of course I have. Just usually alone in my house without anyone watching. I’m perfectly certain no one wants to witness my attempts at dancing.
Julian: For once, you’re dead wrong! I’m taking you to the dance floor. Now.
He turns to cut a path to the dance floor, gesturing for you to follow. Kallie turns to you.
Kallie: Danny, help! I’ve never done anything like this, and Julian’s going to know it the moment I get out there.
Danny: You’ve been doing things that you’ve never done before all night, Kallie. This is just one more challenge! And anyone can dance. The hardest thing is not being afraid of looking a little silly... think positively!
Kallie: I can’t think of anything except how insanely clumsy I’m going to look!
Danny: Think of a time you were happy and jubilant. Try to remember how that felt.
Kallie: I guess I felt pretty light, giddy, and excited...
Danny: Focus on that instead of your nervousness... it’ll help.
You and Kallie walk onto the dance floor as a fast song comes on.
Julian: Come on, Kallie... over here! Let’s see some moves!
Kallie takes a deep breath and walks towards him.
Kallie: I’m jubilant, I’m happy, I’m excited... jubilant, happy, excited...
He spins her into him, and he and Kallie start dancing! You join a group of your friends! After a few songs, you meet up with Julian and Kallie.
Kallie: Danny! Did you see it? I danced! In front of people! At least I think I did. It didn’t look weird, did it?
Julian: You didn’t look weird! You’re a natural.
Kallie: Thanks! But perhaps we can obtain some water? I’m thirsty.
Danny: Yeah, it’s hot. I’m totally parched.
Julian: Good thing I know what that word means now. This way!
At the drinks table, the three of your grab lemonade and sodas. From where you’re standing, you spot Autumn singing karaoke.
Kallie: That looks like fun!
Julian: Then we’re doing it! Come on!
Julian takes Kallie’s hand and pulls her into the living room where Autumn is just finishing up her song.
Autumn: Perfect timing, you guys! You’re up! Grab a mic!
Julian: Sure! Kallie, you want to hold it?
The song plays, and words pop up on the screen.
Kallie: Uhhh... Is it me, or is it a little hard to see the words? They’re not big enough!
Danny: Wow, those words are miniscule.
Julian: Too late to change it now! We’re singing in three... two...
Kallie: What should we do?
Julian: Time to make it up!
Danny: All right, Kallie, let’s improvise. Sing it like you know it! I... am booked on peeling...
Kallie: I’m nigh on believing...
Julian: That you’re in glove with me...
At the end of the song, everyone claps!
Danny: That was awesome!
Kallie: I’d say our efforts were inaccurately enthusiastic!
Julian: You really rocked that, Kallie. You have a great voice.
Kallie: Uh, er, I mean... thank you.
Payton rushes into the room.
Payton: Guys, guys, guys... do you know what time it is?
Kallie: Bedtime?
Payton: Pool time! Grab your swimsuits and get in! Kallie, I’ve got a new suit you can wear! No excuses! Let’s meet out at the pool in ten!
Ten minutes later, everyone heads outside and jumps into the pool. You dive in!
Danny: YEAH!!!
Kallie dips a toe in the water at the side. She’s still wrapped in a towel. Julian comes up to her side.
Julian: Are you going in? You can swim, right?
Kallie: Um, yes, I’ve taken lessons for year, but... Maybe it’s not a good idea. I really shouldn’t swim thirty minutes after eating food.
Danny: Chocolate doesn’t count as a comestible.
Kallie: Debatable. But there’s no need for me to climb in! I can experience the pool from here.
Julian: You know what they say about experience...
Kallie: That you gain it with careful and cautious observation?
Julian: No! That it’s better first-hand!
Julian pushes Kallie into the pool! She falls in with a splash!
Kallie: Ahhhhhhh!
Kallie: So what’s up next? What would make this the quintessential high school party?
Julian: Well, you can’t leave a high school party without going on a little crazy on the dance floor.
Kallie: Oh really?
Julian: Oh man, is this some crazy Footloose thing where you’ve never danced before in your life?
Kallie: Of course I have. Just usually alone in my house without anyone watching. I’m perfectly certain no one wants to witness my attempts at dancing.
Julian: For once, you’re dead wrong! I’m taking you to the dance floor. Now.
He turns to cut a path to the dance floor, gesturing for you to follow. Kallie turns to you.
Kallie: Danny, help! I’ve never done anything like this, and Julian’s going to know it the moment I get out there.
Danny: You’ve been doing things that you’ve never done before all night, Kallie. This is just one more challenge! And anyone can dance. The hardest thing is not being afraid of looking a little silly... think positively!
Kallie: I can’t think of anything except how insanely clumsy I’m going to look!
Danny: Think of a time you were happy and jubilant. Try to remember how that felt.
Kallie: I guess I felt pretty light, giddy, and excited...
Danny: Focus on that instead of your nervousness... it’ll help.
You and Kallie walk onto the dance floor as a fast song comes on.
Julian: Come on, Kallie... over here! Let’s see some moves!
Kallie takes a deep breath and walks towards him.
Kallie: I’m jubilant, I’m happy, I’m excited... jubilant, happy, excited...
He spins her into him, and he and Kallie start dancing! You join a group of your friends! After a few songs, you meet up with Julian and Kallie.
Kallie: Danny! Did you see it? I danced! In front of people! At least I think I did. It didn’t look weird, did it?
Julian: You didn’t look weird! You’re a natural.
Kallie: Thanks! But perhaps we can obtain some water? I’m thirsty.
Danny: Yeah, it’s hot. I’m totally parched.
Julian: Good thing I know what that word means now. This way!
At the drinks table, the three of your grab lemonade and sodas. From where you’re standing, you spot Autumn singing karaoke.
Kallie: That looks like fun!
Julian: Then we’re doing it! Come on!
Julian takes Kallie’s hand and pulls her into the living room where Autumn is just finishing up her song.
Autumn: Perfect timing, you guys! You’re up! Grab a mic!
Julian: Sure! Kallie, you want to hold it?
The song plays, and words pop up on the screen.
Kallie: Uhhh... Is it me, or is it a little hard to see the words? They’re not big enough!
Danny: Wow, those words are miniscule.
Julian: Too late to change it now! We’re singing in three... two...
Kallie: What should we do?
Julian: Time to make it up!
Danny: All right, Kallie, let’s improvise. Sing it like you know it! I... am booked on peeling...
Kallie: I’m nigh on believing...
Julian: That you’re in glove with me...
At the end of the song, everyone claps!
Danny: That was awesome!
Kallie: I’d say our efforts were inaccurately enthusiastic!
Julian: You really rocked that, Kallie. You have a great voice.
Kallie: Uh, er, I mean... thank you.
Payton rushes into the room.
Payton: Guys, guys, guys... do you know what time it is?
Kallie: Bedtime?
Payton: Pool time! Grab your swimsuits and get in! Kallie, I’ve got a new suit you can wear! No excuses! Let’s meet out at the pool in ten!
Ten minutes later, everyone heads outside and jumps into the pool. You dive in!
Danny: YEAH!!!
Kallie dips a toe in the water at the side. She’s still wrapped in a towel. Julian comes up to her side.
Julian: Are you going in? You can swim, right?
Kallie: Um, yes, I’ve taken lessons for year, but... Maybe it’s not a good idea. I really shouldn’t swim thirty minutes after eating food.
Danny: Chocolate doesn’t count as a comestible.
Kallie: Debatable. But there’s no need for me to climb in! I can experience the pool from here.
Julian: You know what they say about experience...
Kallie: That you gain it with careful and cautious observation?
Julian: No! That it’s better first-hand!
Julian pushes Kallie into the pool! She falls in with a splash!
Kallie: Ahhhhhhh!
Vocab Words 19
At Payton’s party, Julian pushes Kallie into the pool!
Kallie: Ahhhhhh!
She swims to the surface, gasping.
Kallie: What... but... why?
Autumn: Julian!
Danny: I can’t believe you pushed her in!
Payton: You can’t do that to a girl without warning her first! I just have her a makeover!
Kallie: It’s okay, really. I’m more accustomed to looking less made-up anyway.
Julian: You look great to me. Are you all right?
Kallie: Well, I am soaked. But don’t worry... There is a way to rectify this...
Danny: As in, there’s a way to correct it.
Julian: What’re we talking about here?
Kallie: Oh, simply help me out of here. Give me your hand, Julian...
Kallie moves to the edge of the pool and holds her hand out. Julian takes her hand... and she yanks him in!
Julian: Hey!
Kallie: It worked! Jinx!
Julian: That’s not how jinxes work.
Kallie: Hijinx?
Autumn: Hee hee! Way to go, Kallie!
Julian: I can’t believe Kallie actually played a trick on me!
Kallie: I’m not usually one for sneaky, diabolical plans, but I couldn’t resist.
Danny: Well, that was pretty fiendish.
Julian: I guess I can’t complain after what I did to you. Besides, the water’s fine.
Kallie: It IS nice in here.
Payton: And I know what would make this even more perfect! Pool Truth or Dare!
Danny: I’m in. How about you, Kallie?
Kallie: What exactly is Truth or Dare?
Payton: You don’t know? It’s only about the greatest game ever!
Julian: Payton, you say that about every party game.
Danny: Basically, we take turns choosing to answer a question truthfully or do a dare.
Payton: But because we’re in a poll, it’s POOL Truth or Dare.
Kallie: What kinds of dares are we talking about?
Julian: It can be anything... eating a bunch of hot chili peppers while swimming laps, jumping into the pool backwards, making out with someone underwater...
Kallie: You can do that?!
Payton: Hee hee... sounds like you’re in!
Kallie: Uh, well, I guess I wouldn’t mind participating... but I’m not sure I’ll be choosing Dare!
Danny: We’ll try to go easy on you. All right, who’s first?
Autumn: I’ll go! And I pick Dare.
Danny: I dare you to do a somersault underwater!
Julian: What? You’re totally letting her off easy!
Autumn: He hee, well, I accept your challenge, Danny!
Autumn wades to the middle of the pool and gracefully turns a somersault underwater!
Kallie: Very pretty, Autumn!
Autumn: Okay... I choose Payton next.
Payton: I pick Truth!
Autumn: Okay, who do you think is the hottest person in our school? And you can’t pick the person you’re dating!
Patyon: Oooh... um... er, well...
Payton ducks underwater and yells something out! She pops back to the surface.
Payton: Did you hear what I said? Because it was the absolute truth.
Danny: All I heard was, ‘Bbbbrrbbbbn’.
Julian: Which, of course, is me.
Payton: Hee hee, it’s hard to be sure, isn’t it? Okay, okay, Kallie’s up next! What do you say? Truth or dare?
Kallie: Truth, please. I like to think of myself as perfectly candid.
Danny: You mean you like to be honest.
Kallie: In all things.
Julian: What about when you tugged me into the pool?
Kallie: Okay, maybe in most things.
Payton: Hey, be quiet, guys! Kallie said truth, and now I get to ask her a question!
Danny: Go for it.
Payton: If you had to make out with someone here, who would it be?
Kallie: Er, did I say truth? I meant, DARE! Please, I take it back! Dare!
Payton: Hee hee! Well, I guess it would be too mean to dare you to make out with someone... that’s not exactly the best way to have your first kiss! How about this? I dare you to dive into the pool from the high diving board!
Kallie looks over at the high diving board and gulps.
Danny: I didn’t even know you could have aboard that high in a personal pool.
Payton: I know, right?
Kallie: Do I have to jump right now?
Payton: Yep! That’s the rule!
Julian: I believe in you, Kallie.
Kallie steels herself and hops out of the pool. She climbs up the diving board ladder, takes a running leap, and dives in with a huge splash!
Autumn: Yay!
Danny: Woo hoo!
Kallie: I did it! Oh, wow, I really did it! Did you see that?
Payton: Are you glad you took the dare?
Kallie: It was stupendous! It was wonderful! I feel elated!
Danny: That means Kallie feels exhilarated.
Kallie: Exactly! And that’s precisely how it’s been since I came to your school!
Danny: That’s us... an adventure a minute...
Kallie: You laugh, but I’m having so much fun with you guys! Let’s just say this is pretty different from my usual evenings alone. Honestly, being by myself all the time became a little monotonous.
Danny: You mean it was boring?
Kallie: Yes. It was.
Payton: Well, you don’t have to be bored anymore! You’re always invited to a Payton party! Anytime!
Kallie: Wouldn’t that mean you’d have to have a party all the time for that to be true?
Payton: I accept that challenge. Hee hee!
Kallie: Ahhhhhh!
She swims to the surface, gasping.
Kallie: What... but... why?
Autumn: Julian!
Danny: I can’t believe you pushed her in!
Payton: You can’t do that to a girl without warning her first! I just have her a makeover!
Kallie: It’s okay, really. I’m more accustomed to looking less made-up anyway.
Julian: You look great to me. Are you all right?
Kallie: Well, I am soaked. But don’t worry... There is a way to rectify this...
Danny: As in, there’s a way to correct it.
Julian: What’re we talking about here?
Kallie: Oh, simply help me out of here. Give me your hand, Julian...
Kallie moves to the edge of the pool and holds her hand out. Julian takes her hand... and she yanks him in!
Julian: Hey!
Kallie: It worked! Jinx!
Julian: That’s not how jinxes work.
Kallie: Hijinx?
Autumn: Hee hee! Way to go, Kallie!
Julian: I can’t believe Kallie actually played a trick on me!
Kallie: I’m not usually one for sneaky, diabolical plans, but I couldn’t resist.
Danny: Well, that was pretty fiendish.
Julian: I guess I can’t complain after what I did to you. Besides, the water’s fine.
Kallie: It IS nice in here.
Payton: And I know what would make this even more perfect! Pool Truth or Dare!
Danny: I’m in. How about you, Kallie?
Kallie: What exactly is Truth or Dare?
Payton: You don’t know? It’s only about the greatest game ever!
Julian: Payton, you say that about every party game.
Danny: Basically, we take turns choosing to answer a question truthfully or do a dare.
Payton: But because we’re in a poll, it’s POOL Truth or Dare.
Kallie: What kinds of dares are we talking about?
Julian: It can be anything... eating a bunch of hot chili peppers while swimming laps, jumping into the pool backwards, making out with someone underwater...
Kallie: You can do that?!
Payton: Hee hee... sounds like you’re in!
Kallie: Uh, well, I guess I wouldn’t mind participating... but I’m not sure I’ll be choosing Dare!
Danny: We’ll try to go easy on you. All right, who’s first?
Autumn: I’ll go! And I pick Dare.
Danny: I dare you to do a somersault underwater!
Julian: What? You’re totally letting her off easy!
Autumn: He hee, well, I accept your challenge, Danny!
Autumn wades to the middle of the pool and gracefully turns a somersault underwater!
Kallie: Very pretty, Autumn!
Autumn: Okay... I choose Payton next.
Payton: I pick Truth!
Autumn: Okay, who do you think is the hottest person in our school? And you can’t pick the person you’re dating!
Patyon: Oooh... um... er, well...
Payton ducks underwater and yells something out! She pops back to the surface.
Payton: Did you hear what I said? Because it was the absolute truth.
Danny: All I heard was, ‘Bbbbrrbbbbn’.
Julian: Which, of course, is me.
Payton: Hee hee, it’s hard to be sure, isn’t it? Okay, okay, Kallie’s up next! What do you say? Truth or dare?
Kallie: Truth, please. I like to think of myself as perfectly candid.
Danny: You mean you like to be honest.
Kallie: In all things.
Julian: What about when you tugged me into the pool?
Kallie: Okay, maybe in most things.
Payton: Hey, be quiet, guys! Kallie said truth, and now I get to ask her a question!
Danny: Go for it.
Payton: If you had to make out with someone here, who would it be?
Kallie: Er, did I say truth? I meant, DARE! Please, I take it back! Dare!
Payton: Hee hee! Well, I guess it would be too mean to dare you to make out with someone... that’s not exactly the best way to have your first kiss! How about this? I dare you to dive into the pool from the high diving board!
Kallie looks over at the high diving board and gulps.
Danny: I didn’t even know you could have aboard that high in a personal pool.
Payton: I know, right?
Kallie: Do I have to jump right now?
Payton: Yep! That’s the rule!
Julian: I believe in you, Kallie.
Kallie steels herself and hops out of the pool. She climbs up the diving board ladder, takes a running leap, and dives in with a huge splash!
Autumn: Yay!
Danny: Woo hoo!
Kallie: I did it! Oh, wow, I really did it! Did you see that?
Payton: Are you glad you took the dare?
Kallie: It was stupendous! It was wonderful! I feel elated!
Danny: That means Kallie feels exhilarated.
Kallie: Exactly! And that’s precisely how it’s been since I came to your school!
Danny: That’s us... an adventure a minute...
Kallie: You laugh, but I’m having so much fun with you guys! Let’s just say this is pretty different from my usual evenings alone. Honestly, being by myself all the time became a little monotonous.
Danny: You mean it was boring?
Kallie: Yes. It was.
Payton: Well, you don’t have to be bored anymore! You’re always invited to a Payton party! Anytime!
Kallie: Wouldn’t that mean you’d have to have a party all the time for that to be true?
Payton: I accept that challenge. Hee hee!
Vocab Words 22
At Payton’s party, you, Kallie, and all your friends are hanging out in the pool!
Julian: All right, truth or dare was fun, but I say it’s time... for a little chicken fight! Me and Kallie versus Payton and Danny!
Kallie: Uh... sure! But... where do we acquire the chickens? And do we HAVE to make them fight?
Payton: Hee hee, a chicken fight is a pool game! You sit on Julian’s shoulders, I sit on Danny’s shoulders, and we try to topple one another! First team to fall over loses!
Kallie: That sounds...
Julian: Incredibly fun? Come on, I won’t let you fall!
Kallie: Um... okay...
Payton climbs onto your shoulders, as Kallie climbs on Julian’s.
Autumn: Ready, you guys? And go!
Kallie: Ahhhhhhhh!
You and Julian run at each other! As you get close, Payton and Kallie start grappling and pushing! The water battle is splashy and fierce! At last...
Danny: Payton... tickle Kallie!
Payton: Sorry, Kallie, but...
Payton sticks her hand out and tickles Kallie’s stomach! Laughing, Kallie topples over!
Kallie: Eep!
Autumn: And the winners are Danny and Payton!
Julian: Sorry, Kallie. I let you fall...
Kallie: It’s okay! That was entertaining!
Julian: Yeah, except Payton and Danny play cheap.
Danny: We play to win!
A little later, as the evening turns dark, Payton brings out towels and blankets for everyone. You all bundle up and lie in chairs around the pool, talking as the stars appear in the sky.
Payton: Ahh... the perfect end to a perfect party! Wonderful people and a beautiful view of the night sky!
Kallie: Yeah, and the stars are really pretty tonight!
Julian: This is nothing. There’s so much light around here, you can’t even see the Milky Way! I’ll take you out for some real star gazing some time.
Kallie: You? Star gazing?
Julian: Sure. What of it?
Kallie: Are you... joking? I can never tell...
Julian: Naw! I’m being totally honest!
Danny: He’s being quite candid. Julian’s actually an outdoorsy guy.
Julian: You have to come camping with me. Trust me. It’ll change your life.
Kallie: This isn’t some kind of fiendish plot, is it? You’ll strand me out in the woods or something as a prank?
Danny: No, Julian’s not up to anything diabolical.
Autumn: You can trust Julian on this. He just loves camping.
Payton: That sounds pretty exciting! I can picture it now... a cabin by the lake, scary movies on a big projector, sitting by the fireplace...
Julian: What? What kind of camping are you talking about?
Payton: The fun kind?
Julian: No, I’m talking about the REAL kind of camping where you pitch tents, forge trails, eat beans out of a can...
Payton: Ick!
Julian: All right, that’s it. All of you HAVE to come camping with me. We’re doing it the real way. The Julian way.
Danny: I’m there!
Payton: I suppose I can try it...
Kallie: It sounds like it would be exquisitely exhilarating! Er, I mean, well, you know, it could be fun, I guess.
Danny: No need to hide how elated you are.
Kallie: I guess not!
Julian: Awesome. We’ll go the weekend after the all-star game!
Kallie: If it’s anything like tonight, I’m looking forward to it!
Julian: Oh yeah? What did you think of tonight?
Kallie: Well, I’d never been to a party before...
Danny: I’m glad we could rectify that.
Kallie: Me too!
Julian: And?
Kallie: I loved it! Between the dancing, the karaoke, and Pool Truth or Dare, there wasn’t a boring moment all night!
Danny: You could say it wasn’t monotonous.
Kallie: Definitely not! You know, I want to thank you guys for showing me such a wonderful time. Payton, you lent me those high heels... Even though they killed my feet, no one’s ever really shared anything with me before...
Payton: You’re welcome to raid my closet anytime!
Kallie: And Danny, you’ve been nothing but supportive since I came to your school.
Danny: That’s what friends are for.
Kallie: And of course, Julian, you... well, you promised to show me a good time, and you definitely did!
Julian: A promise is a promise.
Kallie: I guess I didn’t realize how lonely I was until I had friends... But now, it’s hard to imagine ever being lonely again.
Danny: Awww...
Kallie: I guess the only thing left to say is... do you think we can have another party again tomorrow?
Payton: Hee hee, I like the way you think!
Julian: All right, truth or dare was fun, but I say it’s time... for a little chicken fight! Me and Kallie versus Payton and Danny!
Kallie: Uh... sure! But... where do we acquire the chickens? And do we HAVE to make them fight?
Payton: Hee hee, a chicken fight is a pool game! You sit on Julian’s shoulders, I sit on Danny’s shoulders, and we try to topple one another! First team to fall over loses!
Kallie: That sounds...
Julian: Incredibly fun? Come on, I won’t let you fall!
Kallie: Um... okay...
Payton climbs onto your shoulders, as Kallie climbs on Julian’s.
Autumn: Ready, you guys? And go!
Kallie: Ahhhhhhhh!
You and Julian run at each other! As you get close, Payton and Kallie start grappling and pushing! The water battle is splashy and fierce! At last...
Danny: Payton... tickle Kallie!
Payton: Sorry, Kallie, but...
Payton sticks her hand out and tickles Kallie’s stomach! Laughing, Kallie topples over!
Kallie: Eep!
Autumn: And the winners are Danny and Payton!
Julian: Sorry, Kallie. I let you fall...
Kallie: It’s okay! That was entertaining!
Julian: Yeah, except Payton and Danny play cheap.
Danny: We play to win!
A little later, as the evening turns dark, Payton brings out towels and blankets for everyone. You all bundle up and lie in chairs around the pool, talking as the stars appear in the sky.
Payton: Ahh... the perfect end to a perfect party! Wonderful people and a beautiful view of the night sky!
Kallie: Yeah, and the stars are really pretty tonight!
Julian: This is nothing. There’s so much light around here, you can’t even see the Milky Way! I’ll take you out for some real star gazing some time.
Kallie: You? Star gazing?
Julian: Sure. What of it?
Kallie: Are you... joking? I can never tell...
Julian: Naw! I’m being totally honest!
Danny: He’s being quite candid. Julian’s actually an outdoorsy guy.
Julian: You have to come camping with me. Trust me. It’ll change your life.
Kallie: This isn’t some kind of fiendish plot, is it? You’ll strand me out in the woods or something as a prank?
Danny: No, Julian’s not up to anything diabolical.
Autumn: You can trust Julian on this. He just loves camping.
Payton: That sounds pretty exciting! I can picture it now... a cabin by the lake, scary movies on a big projector, sitting by the fireplace...
Julian: What? What kind of camping are you talking about?
Payton: The fun kind?
Julian: No, I’m talking about the REAL kind of camping where you pitch tents, forge trails, eat beans out of a can...
Payton: Ick!
Julian: All right, that’s it. All of you HAVE to come camping with me. We’re doing it the real way. The Julian way.
Danny: I’m there!
Payton: I suppose I can try it...
Kallie: It sounds like it would be exquisitely exhilarating! Er, I mean, well, you know, it could be fun, I guess.
Danny: No need to hide how elated you are.
Kallie: I guess not!
Julian: Awesome. We’ll go the weekend after the all-star game!
Kallie: If it’s anything like tonight, I’m looking forward to it!
Julian: Oh yeah? What did you think of tonight?
Kallie: Well, I’d never been to a party before...
Danny: I’m glad we could rectify that.
Kallie: Me too!
Julian: And?
Kallie: I loved it! Between the dancing, the karaoke, and Pool Truth or Dare, there wasn’t a boring moment all night!
Danny: You could say it wasn’t monotonous.
Kallie: Definitely not! You know, I want to thank you guys for showing me such a wonderful time. Payton, you lent me those high heels... Even though they killed my feet, no one’s ever really shared anything with me before...
Payton: You’re welcome to raid my closet anytime!
Kallie: And Danny, you’ve been nothing but supportive since I came to your school.
Danny: That’s what friends are for.
Kallie: And of course, Julian, you... well, you promised to show me a good time, and you definitely did!
Julian: A promise is a promise.
Kallie: I guess I didn’t realize how lonely I was until I had friends... But now, it’s hard to imagine ever being lonely again.
Danny: Awww...
Kallie: I guess the only thing left to say is... do you think we can have another party again tomorrow?
Payton: Hee hee, I like the way you think!
Vocab Words 23
It’s been a week since Payton’s party, and you, Kallie, and Julian are walking to Kallie’s house one day after school.
Danny: Hey Kallie, thanks again for letting me and Julian come over to work on our group project.
Kallie: I am happy to help out. You can’t imagine how ecstatic I am to put together a presentation on Hamlet. It is my unequivocal favorite of all the Shakespearian tragedies! I hope that one day I can write something that thoughtful and provocative!
Julian: Man, I just hope that we can get a good grade on this thing.
Danny: It’s okay, Julian. With Kallie in our group, a passing grade will be a piece of cake!
Julian: It’s not that... I just found out I’ve gotta get at least a 95% on this presentation, or my overall grade in the class won’t be high enough to play in the all-star game!
Kallie: Oh no! A failing grade would be pernicious to your football career!
Danny: You mean it would be damaging?
Kallie: Exactly! We cannot allow that to happen!
Julian: I knew I could count on you!
A blush creeps up Kallie’s neck.
Kallie: Well, um, let’s begin! Our analysis of one of the themes from Hamlet must be meticulous, or Mr. Olson won’t give us an A. We have to ensure our presentation is of the highest quality!
Danny: Yeah, we have to guarantee it.
Kallie: So our presentation is on the theme of revenge in Hamlet! The play follows Prince Hamlet’s emotional and psychological journey to avenge his father’s death against uncle Claudius. Hamlet’s internal struggle and unwillingness to act ultimately results in tragedy.
Julian: You mean, the deaths of just about everyone in the play.
Kallie: Indeed. Mr. Olson likes a high level of detail. To flourish on this project, we must cite all examples of the theme!
Danny: Yeah, that will really help us succeed.
Julian: Well, isn’t ALL of Act V an example of revenge? That’s when the major fighting and dying happens!
Kallie: Precisely. However, perhaps we should begin by locating slightly shorter examples.
Danny: Let’s start at the beginning with the ghost scene. That way we can track the theme throughout.
Kallie: Excellent idea, Danny. Let’s plot his revenge across all five acts. Hamlet was very rigorous in his desire for vengeance in this play. He refused to let it go!
Danny: His pursuit of Claudius was quite relentless.
The three of you work diligently for a few hours.
Kallie: I believe we are prepared to initiate our examination of Act IV and--
Kallie yawns mid-sentence.
Danny: Maybe we should take a break...
Kallie: No, no. I’m not as fatigued as I seem, I can assure you. It’s just--
Kallie yawns again.
Kallie: --rather late.
Julian: Why don’t we grab some coffee so we can power through the last two acts? I know just the place!
Kallie: Oh, uh, certainly. The caffeine will most likely provide me with the stamina to continue.
Danny: Let’s go!
Together, the three of you head over to Coffee Express, a nearby 24/7 coffeeshop. Julian marches right up to the counter.
Julian: Three regular coffees please, on me!
Kallie: Oh, uh... thanks, Julian!
Just then, a grumbling sounds erupts, and Kallie clutches her stomach. She blushes bright red.
Kallie: Oh, I suppose I’m a little hungry, too.
Julian: And one croissant, too.
Kallie: Oh, um, that’s really not necessary...
Julian: Don’t worry about it.
After you’ve collected your drinks, the three of your take a seat on a couch in the corner. Kallie takes on sip of her coffee and grimaces.
Kallie: That was... rather unpalatable.
Danny: Not a big coffee drinker?
Kallie: No... I’ve never felt the need to consume copious amounts of caffeine since my mom often lets me sleep in a little on school days. Most of the time, we don’t even begin until ten o’clock!
Julian: What? That’s awesome.
Kallie smiles broadly and takes a big bite of her croissant.
Kallie: Mmmm... the coffee may be abhorrent, but this croissant is delectable.
Kallie finishes the pastry in a few more bites.
Kallie: That croissant was quite delicious. It truly assuaged my appetite!
Danny: You mean it satisfied you?
Julian: Tell us more about being homeschooled, Kallie. It must be nice to have all your parents’ attention to yourself.
Kallie: I adore being homeschooled! It’s quite enjoyable to be taught by my mother. She’s an excellent teacher! And being homeschooled allows me plenty of time to focus on my writing!
Danny: That sounds awesome, Kallie!
Kallie: It is! Except...
Julian: What’s wrong?
Kallie: Occasionally, I feel like I’m missing something... it did not occur to me until I attended Mr. Olson’s class and met all of you. Everyone has been so kind to me. I wish that I could hang out with you, uh, I mean, everyone more often. I’m crestfallen that class will conclude so soon, and I will return to being exclusively homeschooled.
Julian: Why don’t you transfer to our school?
Kallie: What?
Julian: It’s perfect! You want to hang out with everyone more, right?
Kallie: Of course...
Julian: If you transfer in, we’ll see you every day!
Kallie: Oh, that does sound lovely... however, I hesitate to broach the subject to my parents.
Julian: Why?
Kallie: Well... it’s a rather, um, delicate topic in my family... because, uh, of my older sister...
Danny: I didn’t know you have an older sister. What’s she like?
Kallie: She... well... that is to say... it’s... it’s difficult for me to talk about.
Danny: Oh! I’m sorry Kallie. I didn’t mean to pry.
Julian: Yeah, no pressure, Kal. And if you do decide you want to talk to your parents, we’re definitely here for you!
Danny: Whatever you decide, you have our full support!
Kallie: Thank you, Danny. You’re so-- oh!
Julian: What’s wrong?
Kallie: It’s so late! We should return to my house to complete our presentation posthaste!
Danny: We can finish our coffees on the way!
Danny: Hey Kallie, thanks again for letting me and Julian come over to work on our group project.
Kallie: I am happy to help out. You can’t imagine how ecstatic I am to put together a presentation on Hamlet. It is my unequivocal favorite of all the Shakespearian tragedies! I hope that one day I can write something that thoughtful and provocative!
Julian: Man, I just hope that we can get a good grade on this thing.
Danny: It’s okay, Julian. With Kallie in our group, a passing grade will be a piece of cake!
Julian: It’s not that... I just found out I’ve gotta get at least a 95% on this presentation, or my overall grade in the class won’t be high enough to play in the all-star game!
Kallie: Oh no! A failing grade would be pernicious to your football career!
Danny: You mean it would be damaging?
Kallie: Exactly! We cannot allow that to happen!
Julian: I knew I could count on you!
A blush creeps up Kallie’s neck.
Kallie: Well, um, let’s begin! Our analysis of one of the themes from Hamlet must be meticulous, or Mr. Olson won’t give us an A. We have to ensure our presentation is of the highest quality!
Danny: Yeah, we have to guarantee it.
Kallie: So our presentation is on the theme of revenge in Hamlet! The play follows Prince Hamlet’s emotional and psychological journey to avenge his father’s death against uncle Claudius. Hamlet’s internal struggle and unwillingness to act ultimately results in tragedy.
Julian: You mean, the deaths of just about everyone in the play.
Kallie: Indeed. Mr. Olson likes a high level of detail. To flourish on this project, we must cite all examples of the theme!
Danny: Yeah, that will really help us succeed.
Julian: Well, isn’t ALL of Act V an example of revenge? That’s when the major fighting and dying happens!
Kallie: Precisely. However, perhaps we should begin by locating slightly shorter examples.
Danny: Let’s start at the beginning with the ghost scene. That way we can track the theme throughout.
Kallie: Excellent idea, Danny. Let’s plot his revenge across all five acts. Hamlet was very rigorous in his desire for vengeance in this play. He refused to let it go!
Danny: His pursuit of Claudius was quite relentless.
The three of you work diligently for a few hours.
Kallie: I believe we are prepared to initiate our examination of Act IV and--
Kallie yawns mid-sentence.
Danny: Maybe we should take a break...
Kallie: No, no. I’m not as fatigued as I seem, I can assure you. It’s just--
Kallie yawns again.
Kallie: --rather late.
Julian: Why don’t we grab some coffee so we can power through the last two acts? I know just the place!
Kallie: Oh, uh, certainly. The caffeine will most likely provide me with the stamina to continue.
Danny: Let’s go!
Together, the three of you head over to Coffee Express, a nearby 24/7 coffeeshop. Julian marches right up to the counter.
Julian: Three regular coffees please, on me!
Kallie: Oh, uh... thanks, Julian!
Just then, a grumbling sounds erupts, and Kallie clutches her stomach. She blushes bright red.
Kallie: Oh, I suppose I’m a little hungry, too.
Julian: And one croissant, too.
Kallie: Oh, um, that’s really not necessary...
Julian: Don’t worry about it.
After you’ve collected your drinks, the three of your take a seat on a couch in the corner. Kallie takes on sip of her coffee and grimaces.
Kallie: That was... rather unpalatable.
Danny: Not a big coffee drinker?
Kallie: No... I’ve never felt the need to consume copious amounts of caffeine since my mom often lets me sleep in a little on school days. Most of the time, we don’t even begin until ten o’clock!
Julian: What? That’s awesome.
Kallie smiles broadly and takes a big bite of her croissant.
Kallie: Mmmm... the coffee may be abhorrent, but this croissant is delectable.
Kallie finishes the pastry in a few more bites.
Kallie: That croissant was quite delicious. It truly assuaged my appetite!
Danny: You mean it satisfied you?
Julian: Tell us more about being homeschooled, Kallie. It must be nice to have all your parents’ attention to yourself.
Kallie: I adore being homeschooled! It’s quite enjoyable to be taught by my mother. She’s an excellent teacher! And being homeschooled allows me plenty of time to focus on my writing!
Danny: That sounds awesome, Kallie!
Kallie: It is! Except...
Julian: What’s wrong?
Kallie: Occasionally, I feel like I’m missing something... it did not occur to me until I attended Mr. Olson’s class and met all of you. Everyone has been so kind to me. I wish that I could hang out with you, uh, I mean, everyone more often. I’m crestfallen that class will conclude so soon, and I will return to being exclusively homeschooled.
Julian: Why don’t you transfer to our school?
Kallie: What?
Julian: It’s perfect! You want to hang out with everyone more, right?
Kallie: Of course...
Julian: If you transfer in, we’ll see you every day!
Kallie: Oh, that does sound lovely... however, I hesitate to broach the subject to my parents.
Julian: Why?
Kallie: Well... it’s a rather, um, delicate topic in my family... because, uh, of my older sister...
Danny: I didn’t know you have an older sister. What’s she like?
Kallie: She... well... that is to say... it’s... it’s difficult for me to talk about.
Danny: Oh! I’m sorry Kallie. I didn’t mean to pry.
Julian: Yeah, no pressure, Kal. And if you do decide you want to talk to your parents, we’re definitely here for you!
Danny: Whatever you decide, you have our full support!
Kallie: Thank you, Danny. You’re so-- oh!
Julian: What’s wrong?
Kallie: It’s so late! We should return to my house to complete our presentation posthaste!
Danny: We can finish our coffees on the way!
Vocab Words 26
Back at Kallie’s house, you, Julian, and Kallie put the finishing touches on your poster about revenge in Hamlet.
Julian: If this isn’t A+ material, I don’t know what is!
Danny: Yeah! We’re definitely going to ace that presentation tomorrow!
Kallie: ...
Danny: Kallie, are you okay?
Kallie: I apologize for being so, uh, distracted. I’ve been contemplating our conversation at the coffeeshop... And I’ve concluded I want to ask my parents about potentially transferring to your school!
Julian: Really? That’s awesome!
Danny: I’m sure you’ll love it here!
Kallie: However... I’m concerned my parent’s won’t want to let me out of their sight. They can be very protective. And I know they’re worried about the quality of my education plummeting.
Danny: Just to be open and honesty with them. We can help you reassure them that your learning won’t suffer.
Julian: Yeah, we’ve got your back!
Kallie: Thank you. Both of you. That sounds lovely. Let’s locate my parents.
Together, the three of you go downstairs and find Kallie’s parents in the living room.
Kallie: Mom, Dad, I would like to discuss something with you. Um... well, I’ve been considering this for a while now, and I believe... I mean, I KNOW, I would like to, uh, transfer to Danny’s school. If possible. N-Now, before you say anything, I know you, uh, have your concerns. And you won’t be appeased unless I prove my education won’t suffer.
Danny: Let us assuage your fears! Our school has top-notch teachers!
Julian: And we have lots of clubs and stuff, so Kallie will have lots of extra-curriculars to choose from! Those are very important for college applications!
Kallie: Furthermore... Teachers like Mr. Olson will see to it that I receive a superb education.
Danny: They will ensure it!
Kallie: As you know, Mr. Olson has been nothing but kind to me since I began that class...
Danny: And he is just one of many wonderful teachers our school has to offer!
Kallie: Of course, the caliber of teachers is not the only consideration when choosing a school.
Danny: Our state test scores are also very strong!
Julian: And we have lots of smart people in our class!
Kallie: Based on my experience thus far, I can promise that you have no need to worry about the quality of education I would receive. Danny’s school is quite thorough in its curriculum.
Danny: It’s very academically rigorous.
Kallie: I know I was fortunate to have such a phenomenal teacher for so many years, Mom. However, recently I’ve, uh, begun to feel as though I’m missing out on the... well, the ‘normal’ high school experience. I crave social interactions with people my own age. I love you two so much. I couldn’t hope for better parents. But I believe I can grow academically and socially at Danny’s school.
Danny: She would certainly flourish. Kallie already fits in with our classmates.
Julian: Yeah, they all love her!
Kallie: Of course, in any new environment, there is the possibility of meeting people who would be a bad influence on me. And delinquent classmates would be harmful to my learning...
Danny: But I promise our friends aren’t pernicious.
Kallie: Yes, everyone at Danny’s school is quite responsible and studious. In conclusion, Mom, Dad, will you, uh, at least consider allowing me to transfer?
Kallie’s face falls when her parents don’t immediately respond.
Kallie: I know you’re worried that history will repeat itself, but I’m not like her.
Kallie’s mom and dad give each other a look.
Danny: Julian, maybe we should leave and let them have a family discussion.
Julian: What? Oh... right. We’ll see you tomorrow, Kallie.
Kallie: Um, okay. Goodnight.
You and Julian quietly leave Kallie’s house. You hear Kallie and her parents begin their discussion as you shut the front door.
Julian: I hope they let her transfer...
Danny: Me too. But for now, we have to focus on our presentation!
Julian: Right! Better get a good night’s sleep so we’re ready to go tomorrow! Catch ya later, Danny!
The next day, the three of you present your poster on the theme of revenge in Hamlet. After class, Mr. Olson calls Julian back into the classroom. You and Kallie wait for Julian in the hall.
Kallie: I hope Julian isn’t experiencing any problems with Mr. Olson.
Danny: Yeah... hey, how did your talk with your parents go after we left?
Kallie: I believe it was satisfactory... we didn’t come to an agreement, but they said they would, um, consider my proposition.
Danny: That’s good, right?
Kallie: It is indeed preferable to an explicit ‘no,’ but it’s still, uh, difficult to determine what they’re thinking...
At that moment, Julian bursts out of the classroom with a huge smile on his face.
Julian: We did it!
Kallie: What?
Julian: We did it! He gave us an A+! I can play in the game, free and clear!
Kallie: Congratulations, Julian! I’m so delighted for you! After all of your hard work and tenacity, you truly deserve it!
Julian: Thanks, Kallie. I couldn’t have done it without you!
Kallie blushes deeply.
Julian: Look out, all-stars! Here I come!
Julian: If this isn’t A+ material, I don’t know what is!
Danny: Yeah! We’re definitely going to ace that presentation tomorrow!
Kallie: ...
Danny: Kallie, are you okay?
Kallie: I apologize for being so, uh, distracted. I’ve been contemplating our conversation at the coffeeshop... And I’ve concluded I want to ask my parents about potentially transferring to your school!
Julian: Really? That’s awesome!
Danny: I’m sure you’ll love it here!
Kallie: However... I’m concerned my parent’s won’t want to let me out of their sight. They can be very protective. And I know they’re worried about the quality of my education plummeting.
Danny: Just to be open and honesty with them. We can help you reassure them that your learning won’t suffer.
Julian: Yeah, we’ve got your back!
Kallie: Thank you. Both of you. That sounds lovely. Let’s locate my parents.
Together, the three of you go downstairs and find Kallie’s parents in the living room.
Kallie: Mom, Dad, I would like to discuss something with you. Um... well, I’ve been considering this for a while now, and I believe... I mean, I KNOW, I would like to, uh, transfer to Danny’s school. If possible. N-Now, before you say anything, I know you, uh, have your concerns. And you won’t be appeased unless I prove my education won’t suffer.
Danny: Let us assuage your fears! Our school has top-notch teachers!
Julian: And we have lots of clubs and stuff, so Kallie will have lots of extra-curriculars to choose from! Those are very important for college applications!
Kallie: Furthermore... Teachers like Mr. Olson will see to it that I receive a superb education.
Danny: They will ensure it!
Kallie: As you know, Mr. Olson has been nothing but kind to me since I began that class...
Danny: And he is just one of many wonderful teachers our school has to offer!
Kallie: Of course, the caliber of teachers is not the only consideration when choosing a school.
Danny: Our state test scores are also very strong!
Julian: And we have lots of smart people in our class!
Kallie: Based on my experience thus far, I can promise that you have no need to worry about the quality of education I would receive. Danny’s school is quite thorough in its curriculum.
Danny: It’s very academically rigorous.
Kallie: I know I was fortunate to have such a phenomenal teacher for so many years, Mom. However, recently I’ve, uh, begun to feel as though I’m missing out on the... well, the ‘normal’ high school experience. I crave social interactions with people my own age. I love you two so much. I couldn’t hope for better parents. But I believe I can grow academically and socially at Danny’s school.
Danny: She would certainly flourish. Kallie already fits in with our classmates.
Julian: Yeah, they all love her!
Kallie: Of course, in any new environment, there is the possibility of meeting people who would be a bad influence on me. And delinquent classmates would be harmful to my learning...
Danny: But I promise our friends aren’t pernicious.
Kallie: Yes, everyone at Danny’s school is quite responsible and studious. In conclusion, Mom, Dad, will you, uh, at least consider allowing me to transfer?
Kallie’s face falls when her parents don’t immediately respond.
Kallie: I know you’re worried that history will repeat itself, but I’m not like her.
Kallie’s mom and dad give each other a look.
Danny: Julian, maybe we should leave and let them have a family discussion.
Julian: What? Oh... right. We’ll see you tomorrow, Kallie.
Kallie: Um, okay. Goodnight.
You and Julian quietly leave Kallie’s house. You hear Kallie and her parents begin their discussion as you shut the front door.
Julian: I hope they let her transfer...
Danny: Me too. But for now, we have to focus on our presentation!
Julian: Right! Better get a good night’s sleep so we’re ready to go tomorrow! Catch ya later, Danny!
The next day, the three of you present your poster on the theme of revenge in Hamlet. After class, Mr. Olson calls Julian back into the classroom. You and Kallie wait for Julian in the hall.
Kallie: I hope Julian isn’t experiencing any problems with Mr. Olson.
Danny: Yeah... hey, how did your talk with your parents go after we left?
Kallie: I believe it was satisfactory... we didn’t come to an agreement, but they said they would, um, consider my proposition.
Danny: That’s good, right?
Kallie: It is indeed preferable to an explicit ‘no,’ but it’s still, uh, difficult to determine what they’re thinking...
At that moment, Julian bursts out of the classroom with a huge smile on his face.
Julian: We did it!
Kallie: What?
Julian: We did it! He gave us an A+! I can play in the game, free and clear!
Kallie: Congratulations, Julian! I’m so delighted for you! After all of your hard work and tenacity, you truly deserve it!
Julian: Thanks, Kallie. I couldn’t have done it without you!
Kallie blushes deeply.
Julian: Look out, all-stars! Here I come!
Vocab Words 28
It’s the day of the all-star game! You, Payton, and Autumn wait eagerly at the entrance to the school’s football field.
Autumn: This is so exciting! It’ll be fun to see everyone play!
Payton: Squee! I know! I can’t wait!
Suddenly, Kallie runs up to you, her back bent under a heavy backpack.
Kallie: Apologies for being so tardy! But I had so many items to pack for my very first football game...
Payton: Pack? What did you bring?
Kallie: Well, I wasn’t completely sure what I’d need... I’ve got sunscreen and a hat for sunny weather, an umbrella and jacket for bad weather, a thermos with hot tea for cold weather... and that only covers the inclement weather portion...
Payton: You’ve packed more in here than I pack for sleepovers!
Danny: And that’s saying something. The last sleepover we had, Payton packed for a week!
Payton: You need on outfit per hour for every social event! It’s like, a scientific fact!
You and your friends find seats in the bleachers as the all-star football players run onto the field, helmets in hand, waving at the crowd! One of them almost knocks Kallie over!
Kallie: Ack!
Danny: Kallie, are you okay?
Kallie: I’m more surprised than anything else! I didn’t realize how intense everyone would be! The crowd is so fervid!
Danny: Football fans can be rather passionate.
Kallie: Yes, I see that! Is this what football games are normally like?
Payton: Yup! And that goes double for the all-star game! Everyone’s favorite football players from all the high schools in the area are playing today. Julian’s the running back for the North League.
Autumn: There he is! Go Julian!
Kallie: Go Julian!
From the entrance on the other side, players in green jerseys stream onto the field.
Kallie: Are those the guys we’re playing against?
Payton: Yep... and ooh, who’s THAT guy?
Autumn: That’s the quarterback for the South League team! He’s looking right at us!
Connor: ...
Payton: I don’t mind looking right back!
Kallie: Huh, he looks...
Payton: Really hot?
Kallie: I was actually going to say that he looks a bit familiar. But it’s ludicrous to think I’d know a football player for the opposing team.
Danny: Oh look, kickoff!
The football game starts! On the very first play, your team intercepts the pass! Fans in your section leap to their feet and cheer!
Payton: Yeah! That was awesome!
Danny: Woo hoo!
Kallie: Whoa, wait, what happened? Did we score?
Autumn: Hee hee... one of our players stole the ball from the other side. So now we have a better chance TO score.
Kallie: Oh... I tried reading up on all the rules of football last night, but I have to admit, it’s quite confusing! That’s why I usually abhor watching sports games. I never understand what’s going on...
Danny: I’d hate watching too if I was confused.
Payton: I totally know what you mean, Kallie. I used to be so NOT interested in watching the game. But once I learned the basics, it was easier to get into it! And the most fun part is cheering along with everyone else!
Kallie: What are the basics?
Payton: Ooh, now I get to teach YOU something! Exciting! Okay, well... the big thing is that you want your team to get the ball into the other team’s end zone. But I mostly just cheer whenever I see Julian running a lot!
Kallie: Okay! That seems easy enough... but what stops Julian from running a lot?
Danny: The other team’s defense. If you look right now, you can see they’re forming a defensive line to keep him from moving down the field...
Kallie: The other team seems hard to get by! Their line looks impervious!
Danny: It can seem impenetrable. That’s why our players try to create a gap in the line by blocking!
You watch the quarterback hand the ball off to Julian, who starts running down the field with it...
Payton: This is what I’m talking about, Kallie! He’s taking off! Here’s your chance!
Kallie jumps up with the rest of your school and starts cheering!
Kallie: Keep on going, Julian! Your ability to be tenacious will soon be rewarded!
Danny: Tenacious? You’re saying he’s determined?
Kallie: Yep! He seems quite intent on winning!
Payton: I like your enthusiasm, but you should try something shorter like...
Autumn: GO JULIAN!
Payton: ...that.
Kallie: GO JULIAN!
Julian runs down the field, dodging past the other team! He cuts quickly past a defender and into the end zone!
Kallie: He’s met his objective! TRIUUUUUUMPH!
Danny: I think you mean... TOUCHDOWN!
Kallie: Woo! This has been the most exhilarating! I’m glad you invited me out here! I do enjoy the time we spend together, Danny.
Danny: Ha ha... speaking of which, any news from your parents? Are they going to let you enroll in our school?
Kallie: They haven’t decided yet, but I hope to hear soon as the deadline to enroll for next semester is approaching. For now, all I can do is wait anxiously!
Danny: Try not to do that.
Kallie: Yeah... oh, look, they’re starting up again!
The game continues! By the fourth quarter, your team is down by several points!
Kallie: Do we have any hope of winning?
Autumn: It all comes down to these last few plays. We need a touchdown to win.
Kallie: What’s the probability of us doing that?
Danny: I don’t know... but I can tell you that I trust our team to do it!
Payton: Here goes!
The quarterback snaps the ball and hands it off to Julian! He starts down the field, but one of the defenders breaks free and leaps at him!
Julian: Ahh!
Julian goes down in a flying tackle!
Kallie: Oh no, is Julian hurt? I’ve never felt such trepidation!
Danny: I’m sure we have nothing to fear. People get tackled all the time. That’s why they wear helmets.
But Julian doesn’t get up right away. The coach from your school kneels next to Julian, shielding your view!
Payton: Oh no...
Danny: ...
Autumn: This is so exciting! It’ll be fun to see everyone play!
Payton: Squee! I know! I can’t wait!
Suddenly, Kallie runs up to you, her back bent under a heavy backpack.
Kallie: Apologies for being so tardy! But I had so many items to pack for my very first football game...
Payton: Pack? What did you bring?
Kallie: Well, I wasn’t completely sure what I’d need... I’ve got sunscreen and a hat for sunny weather, an umbrella and jacket for bad weather, a thermos with hot tea for cold weather... and that only covers the inclement weather portion...
Payton: You’ve packed more in here than I pack for sleepovers!
Danny: And that’s saying something. The last sleepover we had, Payton packed for a week!
Payton: You need on outfit per hour for every social event! It’s like, a scientific fact!
You and your friends find seats in the bleachers as the all-star football players run onto the field, helmets in hand, waving at the crowd! One of them almost knocks Kallie over!
Kallie: Ack!
Danny: Kallie, are you okay?
Kallie: I’m more surprised than anything else! I didn’t realize how intense everyone would be! The crowd is so fervid!
Danny: Football fans can be rather passionate.
Kallie: Yes, I see that! Is this what football games are normally like?
Payton: Yup! And that goes double for the all-star game! Everyone’s favorite football players from all the high schools in the area are playing today. Julian’s the running back for the North League.
Autumn: There he is! Go Julian!
Kallie: Go Julian!
From the entrance on the other side, players in green jerseys stream onto the field.
Kallie: Are those the guys we’re playing against?
Payton: Yep... and ooh, who’s THAT guy?
Autumn: That’s the quarterback for the South League team! He’s looking right at us!
Connor: ...
Payton: I don’t mind looking right back!
Kallie: Huh, he looks...
Payton: Really hot?
Kallie: I was actually going to say that he looks a bit familiar. But it’s ludicrous to think I’d know a football player for the opposing team.
Danny: Oh look, kickoff!
The football game starts! On the very first play, your team intercepts the pass! Fans in your section leap to their feet and cheer!
Payton: Yeah! That was awesome!
Danny: Woo hoo!
Kallie: Whoa, wait, what happened? Did we score?
Autumn: Hee hee... one of our players stole the ball from the other side. So now we have a better chance TO score.
Kallie: Oh... I tried reading up on all the rules of football last night, but I have to admit, it’s quite confusing! That’s why I usually abhor watching sports games. I never understand what’s going on...
Danny: I’d hate watching too if I was confused.
Payton: I totally know what you mean, Kallie. I used to be so NOT interested in watching the game. But once I learned the basics, it was easier to get into it! And the most fun part is cheering along with everyone else!
Kallie: What are the basics?
Payton: Ooh, now I get to teach YOU something! Exciting! Okay, well... the big thing is that you want your team to get the ball into the other team’s end zone. But I mostly just cheer whenever I see Julian running a lot!
Kallie: Okay! That seems easy enough... but what stops Julian from running a lot?
Danny: The other team’s defense. If you look right now, you can see they’re forming a defensive line to keep him from moving down the field...
Kallie: The other team seems hard to get by! Their line looks impervious!
Danny: It can seem impenetrable. That’s why our players try to create a gap in the line by blocking!
You watch the quarterback hand the ball off to Julian, who starts running down the field with it...
Payton: This is what I’m talking about, Kallie! He’s taking off! Here’s your chance!
Kallie jumps up with the rest of your school and starts cheering!
Kallie: Keep on going, Julian! Your ability to be tenacious will soon be rewarded!
Danny: Tenacious? You’re saying he’s determined?
Kallie: Yep! He seems quite intent on winning!
Payton: I like your enthusiasm, but you should try something shorter like...
Autumn: GO JULIAN!
Payton: ...that.
Kallie: GO JULIAN!
Julian runs down the field, dodging past the other team! He cuts quickly past a defender and into the end zone!
Kallie: He’s met his objective! TRIUUUUUUMPH!
Danny: I think you mean... TOUCHDOWN!
Kallie: Woo! This has been the most exhilarating! I’m glad you invited me out here! I do enjoy the time we spend together, Danny.
Danny: Ha ha... speaking of which, any news from your parents? Are they going to let you enroll in our school?
Kallie: They haven’t decided yet, but I hope to hear soon as the deadline to enroll for next semester is approaching. For now, all I can do is wait anxiously!
Danny: Try not to do that.
Kallie: Yeah... oh, look, they’re starting up again!
The game continues! By the fourth quarter, your team is down by several points!
Kallie: Do we have any hope of winning?
Autumn: It all comes down to these last few plays. We need a touchdown to win.
Kallie: What’s the probability of us doing that?
Danny: I don’t know... but I can tell you that I trust our team to do it!
Payton: Here goes!
The quarterback snaps the ball and hands it off to Julian! He starts down the field, but one of the defenders breaks free and leaps at him!
Julian: Ahh!
Julian goes down in a flying tackle!
Kallie: Oh no, is Julian hurt? I’ve never felt such trepidation!
Danny: I’m sure we have nothing to fear. People get tackled all the time. That’s why they wear helmets.
But Julian doesn’t get up right away. The coach from your school kneels next to Julian, shielding your view!
Payton: Oh no...
Danny: ...
Vocab Words 31
At the all-star football game... Julian was tackled wile running downfield and hasn’t gotten up!
Kallie: Can you see what’s going on, Danny?
Danny: Not really. There are too many people crowded around him...
Kallie: I’m so overcome with fear that I might faint!
Danny: I know. I’m also feeling some of that trepidation.
Autumn: Come on, Julian... stand up...
Payton: Please...
Kallie: I hope he’s not badly hurt. I hat that we can’t help!
Danny: I abhor it, too.
After several excruciating minutes... the crowd parts, and you see the rival quarterback from South League help Julian to his feet!
Connor: You all right, buddy?
Julian: Heh. I’ve had worse.
The football players get into position again.
Autumn: Julian’s okay!
Payton: Of course he is! There was never any doubt!
Kallie: Well, there was momentary doubt... but I’m glad it was all for naught.
Danny: And it looks like he’s still in the game!
The play starts again, and this time, Julian runs the ball right into the end zone! North League wins the game!
Payton: We won!
Autumn: We did it!
Danny: YEAH!
Kallie: GO JULIAN! Did I do it right that time? It felt like I did it right!
Around you, everyone stands up, and you all swarm the field! You and your friends quickly surround Julian. Kallie gives Julian a big hug.
Kallie: I’m pleased to see you’re all right!
Danny: Yeah, you had us worried there.
Julian: What, that? I’m fine! Nothing can stop me!
Danny: When you say it like that, you seem impervious.
Kallie: Well, I’m glad you’re all right. You were wonderful! And the game was so much fun! Albeit a bit barbaric and shockingly violent... but fun!
Julian: So you liked your first football game?
Kallie: How could I not? I didn’t realize that it could be like this! The energy, the excitement, the nervousness! I’d get so anxious when the other team had the ball... and SO elated when we moved down the field!
Julian: Looks like football’s got a new fan!
Danny: You sounds as fervid as everyone else!
Kallie: Hee hee. I’m not sure if I’ve been completely won over. But I hope this isn’t my last game!
Julian: A bunch of us are grabbing pizza now. Are you guys free?
Payton: A pizza party? I’m in!
Danny: Me too!
Autumn: After a win like that? Of course!
Kallie: And I’d love to--
Suddenly Kallie’s phone starts buzzing. She frowns.
Kallie: I apologize, but it’s my parents. I’m not sure what they want...
Kallie steps aside to take the call. When she comes back, she’s smiling widely.
Kallie: Oh my goodness, you guys! My parents said I can go to your school! I’m in! I’m in! They just finished the paperwork and everything! It’s all thanks to you, Danny! They’re impressed by how good of an influence you are. If you hadn’t convinced me to ask them, I would still be homeschooled and alone. I’m glad you didn’t give up on me.
Danny: I like to think of myself as tenacious.
Julian: Congratulations, Kallie!
Julian gives her a big hug, then takes her hand. Kallie blushes.
Julian: Now come on! We have twice the reason to celebrate!
As you walk to the parking lot, your group runs into the quarterback from the other team.
Connor: Kallie? Is that really you?
Kallie: Er, yes? I am Kallie.
Connor: I can’t believe it!
Connor sweeps Kallie up in a huge hug!
Kallie: Do I... know you?
Connor: You don’t remember?
Payton: Yeah, how could you forget a face like that?
Kallie: Actually, wait a moment... you’re Connor Gunn! I thought you looked familiar, but I didn’t think it was really you...
Julian: How exactly do you know the quarterback from our rival team?
Connor: Kallie and I go way back. We used to be neighbors in grade school... Kallie, are you free this weekend? I’d like to catch up. There are some things I’ve been meaning to tell you.
Kallie: Uh, er, well... I should be free unless I am tutoring...
She looks to you and Julian.
Julian: Uh...
Danny: We hadn’t planned on anything.
Kallie: Then it appears I am available.
Connor: Great. I’ll call you.
Kallie: Do you need my number?
Connor: Nope, I remember. Unless you’ve changed it.
With a last nod to Julian and the rest of your group, Connor walks off.
Payton: Ooooh, Kallie! This is exciting! That guy is SO into you!
Kallie: What? No, he isn’t. He can’t be.
Payton: He asked you out on a date!
Julian: It didn’t sound like a date.
Kallie: I hope it’s not! Maybe I shouldn’t have agreed to see him. It’s been several years since we’ve actually talked. He used to be my best friend until...
Autumn: Until?
Kallie: He left. I hadn’t heard from him for a few days, and when I went to visit his house, it was empty. My parents told me his family had moved away. I never received a satisfactory reason why. He didn’t even leave me a note.
Payton: Wow, now you HAVE to go see him on Saturday! Don’t you want to know why your best friend moved away without a word?
Kallie: I suppose you’re right. But it’s still not a date.
Payton: Hee hee, I guess we’ll have to see!
Kallie: Can you see what’s going on, Danny?
Danny: Not really. There are too many people crowded around him...
Kallie: I’m so overcome with fear that I might faint!
Danny: I know. I’m also feeling some of that trepidation.
Autumn: Come on, Julian... stand up...
Payton: Please...
Kallie: I hope he’s not badly hurt. I hat that we can’t help!
Danny: I abhor it, too.
After several excruciating minutes... the crowd parts, and you see the rival quarterback from South League help Julian to his feet!
Connor: You all right, buddy?
Julian: Heh. I’ve had worse.
The football players get into position again.
Autumn: Julian’s okay!
Payton: Of course he is! There was never any doubt!
Kallie: Well, there was momentary doubt... but I’m glad it was all for naught.
Danny: And it looks like he’s still in the game!
The play starts again, and this time, Julian runs the ball right into the end zone! North League wins the game!
Payton: We won!
Autumn: We did it!
Danny: YEAH!
Kallie: GO JULIAN! Did I do it right that time? It felt like I did it right!
Around you, everyone stands up, and you all swarm the field! You and your friends quickly surround Julian. Kallie gives Julian a big hug.
Kallie: I’m pleased to see you’re all right!
Danny: Yeah, you had us worried there.
Julian: What, that? I’m fine! Nothing can stop me!
Danny: When you say it like that, you seem impervious.
Kallie: Well, I’m glad you’re all right. You were wonderful! And the game was so much fun! Albeit a bit barbaric and shockingly violent... but fun!
Julian: So you liked your first football game?
Kallie: How could I not? I didn’t realize that it could be like this! The energy, the excitement, the nervousness! I’d get so anxious when the other team had the ball... and SO elated when we moved down the field!
Julian: Looks like football’s got a new fan!
Danny: You sounds as fervid as everyone else!
Kallie: Hee hee. I’m not sure if I’ve been completely won over. But I hope this isn’t my last game!
Julian: A bunch of us are grabbing pizza now. Are you guys free?
Payton: A pizza party? I’m in!
Danny: Me too!
Autumn: After a win like that? Of course!
Kallie: And I’d love to--
Suddenly Kallie’s phone starts buzzing. She frowns.
Kallie: I apologize, but it’s my parents. I’m not sure what they want...
Kallie steps aside to take the call. When she comes back, she’s smiling widely.
Kallie: Oh my goodness, you guys! My parents said I can go to your school! I’m in! I’m in! They just finished the paperwork and everything! It’s all thanks to you, Danny! They’re impressed by how good of an influence you are. If you hadn’t convinced me to ask them, I would still be homeschooled and alone. I’m glad you didn’t give up on me.
Danny: I like to think of myself as tenacious.
Julian: Congratulations, Kallie!
Julian gives her a big hug, then takes her hand. Kallie blushes.
Julian: Now come on! We have twice the reason to celebrate!
As you walk to the parking lot, your group runs into the quarterback from the other team.
Connor: Kallie? Is that really you?
Kallie: Er, yes? I am Kallie.
Connor: I can’t believe it!
Connor sweeps Kallie up in a huge hug!
Kallie: Do I... know you?
Connor: You don’t remember?
Payton: Yeah, how could you forget a face like that?
Kallie: Actually, wait a moment... you’re Connor Gunn! I thought you looked familiar, but I didn’t think it was really you...
Julian: How exactly do you know the quarterback from our rival team?
Connor: Kallie and I go way back. We used to be neighbors in grade school... Kallie, are you free this weekend? I’d like to catch up. There are some things I’ve been meaning to tell you.
Kallie: Uh, er, well... I should be free unless I am tutoring...
She looks to you and Julian.
Julian: Uh...
Danny: We hadn’t planned on anything.
Kallie: Then it appears I am available.
Connor: Great. I’ll call you.
Kallie: Do you need my number?
Connor: Nope, I remember. Unless you’ve changed it.
With a last nod to Julian and the rest of your group, Connor walks off.
Payton: Ooooh, Kallie! This is exciting! That guy is SO into you!
Kallie: What? No, he isn’t. He can’t be.
Payton: He asked you out on a date!
Julian: It didn’t sound like a date.
Kallie: I hope it’s not! Maybe I shouldn’t have agreed to see him. It’s been several years since we’ve actually talked. He used to be my best friend until...
Autumn: Until?
Kallie: He left. I hadn’t heard from him for a few days, and when I went to visit his house, it was empty. My parents told me his family had moved away. I never received a satisfactory reason why. He didn’t even leave me a note.
Payton: Wow, now you HAVE to go see him on Saturday! Don’t you want to know why your best friend moved away without a word?
Kallie: I suppose you’re right. But it’s still not a date.
Payton: Hee hee, I guess we’ll have to see!