“Seventh Grade” – Gary Soto

“Seventh Grade” – Gary Soto

Summary

In Seventh Grade, Victor is a seventh grader who is nervous about starting school and wants to impress his crush, Teresa. He pretends to know French, but when he is called on in class, he gets nervous. His teacher, Mr. Bueller, saves him by making light of the situation, and Victor learns that it’s okay to be yourself and that trying too hard to impress others isn't always the best approach.

 

Character

Victor (12-year-old boy who just started his first year in middle school)
Teresa (Victor’s Crush)
Mr. Bueller (Victor’s Teacher)
Michael (Victor’s friend who helps victor in impressing Teresa)


Plot Elements

Exposition - The story takes place on the first day of school in a middle school. Victor, a seventh grader, is nervous about impressing his crush, Teresa, and making a good impression as he begins the school year.

Rising action - Victor tries to impress Teresa by pretending to know French, even though he doesn’t. He wants to seem smart and sophisticated to her. His teacher, Mr. Bueller, notices and plays along with Victor's lie, making him feel embarrassed but also relieved that his bluff isn't called out.


Climax - The most intense moment comes when Victor is called on to answer in French, and he stumbles. However, Mr. Bueller saves him by asking the class to be patient and allowing Victor to feel less embarrassed.

Resolution - By the end of the story, Victor feels more comfortable with himself. He realizes that his attempt to impress Teresa doesn't have to be perfect, and he learns that honesty (even about not knowing French) is more important than trying to be someone he's not.


Analysis & Feelings

This story shows the awkwardness and insecurities that many seventh graders face. I felt for Victor, because I assume anybody has had moments in which they try too hard to impress someone. The teacher, Mr. Bueller, is a nice have an impact on, showing that kindness and understanding can assist ease the stress of a tough state of affairs. The subject of mastering to be yourself, rather than looking to be someone you’re no longer, is something I can relate to and think many others can, too.

  

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