Compare/Contrast and Text Evidence

Story 1

Pierre changed into his track clothes and laced up his shoes. He left the locker room to meet the rest of the kids outside on the field. It was the first day of track tryouts. The coach walked up and greeted the athletes. “I see you are all interested in being on Town Creek Middle School’s track team,” the coach stated. “Let’s see if you have what it takes.”

The boys began to complete the tryout drills. The coach wanted to see who could run the farthest, who could run the longest, and who could run the fastest. Pierre liked to run and he knew he was talented, but he didn't know how well the other boys ran. Would he be good enough to make the team?

Each time it was Pierre’s turn to run, he began shaking and it was hard to breathe. He was so nervous! The coach realized Pierre was panicking and pulled him aside. He put his hand on his shoulder and spoke calmly to Pierre.

“Pierre, I’ve seen your running skills. You have no reason to be nervous! Take a deep breath and join this group. You’ve got this! I know you can do it,” he said.

Taking a deep breath, Pierre lined up with the other boys. As soon as the whistle blew, he took off running. His arms and legs moved faster than they ever had before. He controlled his breathing and stayed focused on the finish line. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he used every muscle in his body to win the race. Pierre knew he had won first place.

Inside, Pierre was grinning from ear to ear. He had successfully turned his first day jitters into the fuel that helped him win the race and make the team.