Part A How does the narrator’s mindset during the race affect the story?

A. She stumbles and injures her ankle, developing the theme that maintaining positive thoughts can help overcome one’s pain.

B. She is grateful for her teammate’s support, developing the theme that good sportsmanship is more important than winning.

C. She questions her ability, developing the theme that negative thoughts can sabotage one’s performance.

D. She panics and forgets to pace herself, developing the theme that it is important to maintain focus in times of stress.

Question 2
Part B

Which quotation from the story best supports the response to Part A?

A. “For a few minutes I run with Amber, and she stays with me, quietly speaking words of encouragement.”

B. ‘“Open your stride,’ she says when we reach the top, and I do, each step covering some serious distance.”

C. "You got this, I tell myself. You got this.”

D. “But I don't feel fine. Familiar feelings of doubt begin to run with me.”