Michael loved to play basketball.
Every Saturday, he followed his older brothers, Larry and Ronnie, to the park, hoping that they would let him play. And if one of the guys who usually played with them didn’t show, they always did. But there was one problem: his name was Mark, and he was the tallest boy on the court.
“What’s the matter, Mikey, too short?” Mark flapped his arms in Michael’s face.
“Over here!” shouted Larry. But when Michael threw the ball, Mark’s long arms came out of nowhere and knocked the ball away. It flew into the hands of a player on Mark’s team, he made the basket, and the game was over. Just like that.
Comprehension Questions
1. Who won't let Michael play basketball with his brothers and the other kids?
A. Larry
B. Mark
C. Michael
2. Why is it harder for Michael to play when Mark is there?
A. Because Mark is his best friend.
B. Because Mark makes Michael laugh so much he can't focus.
C. Because Mark is much taller than Michael.
A. Because Mark is his best friend.
B. Because Mark makes Michael laugh so much he can't focus.
C. Because Mark is much taller than Michael.
Your Thoughts
3. Did you like this excerpt? Why or why not?
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.