Unit 8: The Contest by William Hoffman

The Story
In "The Contest," you will meet Earl and his father. They are both at work, and they are working very hard. They work until they are almost too tired to move. Tell about a time when you had to work very hard.

• What kept you going?
• Did you ever start a job and then quit before you finished?
• Tell what happened. 

Literature

In "The Contest," there is a conflict between Ear and his father. A conflict is a struggle or a fight. Conflict is a very important part of many stories and books. You will also find conflict in many TV shows and movies. It is exciting to discover which side or character will win. 

Looking Ahead

Look at the picture on page 166. 

• Where are the men, and what kind of work are they doing?
• Think about the title of the story. What is a contest?
• What kind of contest might the characters be in?
• Read on to see if you are right. 

Class Materials

• Quiz
• Quiz - answer