Use the paragraphs to complete the activity. Patrick lived in Emoryville, but every Saturday morning he rode two city buses to his uncle’s bookstore in Northview where he worked. He didn’t mind the commute because he loved his job. He loved spending time with his uncle, but he also loved going to work because he had become friends with Andrew, one of his co-workers. The boys would talk about everything from baseball scores to movies to favorite pizza toppings. So this Saturday, when Patrick got to work, he and Andrew got to talking as they always did. “Hey, Pat,” Andrew said casually. “Hey,” said Patrick. “Did you have a good week?” “Yeah,” he said. “Great week. My basketball team made it into the semifinals. The game is tonight. We’re playing Emoryville, our nemesis.” Before Patrick could say another word, Andrew continued. “I don’t like Emoryville. I don’t think I could ever be friends with someone from that town. Our schools are such rivals.” Patrick was speechless. “Where are you from, Pat? I can’t believe I’ve never asked you that before!” Patrick fumbled over his words. “Not too far from here,” he said before he quickly changed the subject to the new shipment of graphic novels. Write a paragraph explaining the structure of the story and how the structure contributes to the meaning of the story.
The structure of the story is set up in a way that builds tension and highlights the theme of friendship and prejudices. The reader is introduced to Patrick’s commute and his close relationship with his uncle and coworker, Andrew. The casual conversation between Patrick and Andrew about their week and the basketball game creates a sense of normalcy before Andrew expresses his negative feelings towards people from Emoryville, unaware that Patrick is from there. The sudden revelation at the end of the conversation leaves the reader shocked and curious about how Patrick will navigate this new information. This structure allows the reader to see the impact of prejudices on relationships and how assumptions can be harmful. Overall, the structure of the story contributes to the meaning by highlighting the importance of looking beyond stereotypes and getting to know people as individuals.
