Pier Forty-Two
VOC A B U L A R Y / CON T E X T / D E F I N I T I ON
clambered
“Abigail clambered up on the window
ledge and then leaped…” (climbed)
sufficient
“When he decided he had sufficient room,
he shifted the wheel around again.”
(enough)
bumpers
“…pier workers were…flinging huge rope
bumpers over the wooden pier piles.”
(cushions, shock absorbers)
wallowed
“The Neptune wallowed gently from
side to side.” (splashed)
disbelief
“A look of disbelief filled his face.
(doubt, astonishment)
Question/Predict/Evaluate
1. How does Thad show himself a good problem solver as he handles the Albany?
2. What is Thad's strategy for bringing the Neptune and Columbine in to the pier?
3. How do Thad and Abigail work as a team here?
4. What does Thad consider the hardest part here?
5. What is a rope bumper and what part does it play in keeping the boats safe? How do others on the pier help
as well?
6. How do you think Captain Bates will respond to the accomplishments of Thad and Abigail? Will they be
punished or praised?
7. Do you think that Thad and Abigail were successful because they were lucky? skillful? or something else?
The Newspaper Connection
1. How do Thad and Abigail's experiences relate to your own life? What are the connections? Explain.
2. Now find a story in the news that relates to your own life whether in school or family.What are the connections?
CHA P T E R 7
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