Name______________________________
Mr. Cooper / Mrs. Walsh
ELA 8
Date:______________________________
The Contender by Robert Lipsyte
Study Guide Part 2
Directions: Answer the questions using complete sentences on a separate sheet of paper.
Chapter 6
1. In this chapter, Bud humiliates Red. What lesson do you think Red is supposed to
learn? How can you apply this lesson to your own life?
2. Read the following simile:
“But by the fourth, his muscles began to get warm, like a car engine heating up on a
cold morning.”
 What is being compared?
 Why is this a good comparison?
Chapter 7
1. Alfred meets three new characters in this chapter. Write a brief description of each
character:
 Jelly Belly
 Willie Streeter
 Spoon
2. How are these new characters different from the gang members?
Chapter 8
1. Why do you think Alfred is able to stand up to Major? Describe the motivating force
behind his new courage. Use examples from the text.
Chapter 9
1. Explain how Aunt Pearl feels about Alfred’s ambition. Why do you think she
feels this way?
Chapter 10
1. Read the following metaphor:
“The first week was all pain, steel claws ripping at his shoulder muscles, raking his
arms.”
 What is being compared?
 What is the effect of this comparison?
2. List the ways Alfred begins to display his frustration.
3. Why do you think Alfred accepts Major’s invitation?
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Chapter 11
1. What has happened to James? Why do you think this has happened?
2. Describe James’ appearance in this chapter. Use examples from the text.
Chapter 12
1. Why does Major want Alfred to hang out?
2. Why does Alfred leave when Henry comes to the store?
3. According to pages 139-140, what is the difference between a fighter and a
contender? What do you think Mr. Donatelli means?
Chapter 13
1. What is the significance of Alfred’s dream on page 142?
2. Why does Mr. Donatelli tell Alfred to get fitted for a custom mouth piece?
Chapter 14
1. Write a newspaper article reporting on Alfred’s first fight. Include a headline. Your
article will be collected.
Chapter 15
1. What was Aunt Pearl’s dream? Why did Aunt Pearl not fulfill her dream? Why
doesn’t Aunt Pearl stop Alfred from boxing?
2. How does Alfred feel after winning his fight? Why do you think he feels this way?
Chapter 16
1. Why is Alfred haunted by the memory of his second fight?
2. Why do Harold and Lynn think Alfred should be involved in their program for
children?
Chapter 17
1. Explain the change in relationship between Alfred and Jeff.
2. Find a quotation that you think is meaningful in this chapter. Explain why you think
the quotation is important.
Chapter 18
1. Why does Mr. Donatelli want Alfred to retire? Explain how Alfred feels. Do you
think it’s time? Why or why not?
Chapters 19 & 20
Write 3-5 discussion questions regarding the novel. These questions should require deep,
thoughtful responses that encourage dialogue and critical thought.