Question

Lena stood at the edge of the gym mat, nervously adjusting her ponytail. As captain of the Crescent Middle cheer squad, she was usually confident during practice. But today was different. The team was preparing for regionals, and Lena felt responsible for making sure every move was perfect—especially the new stunt she had added to the routine. Even though she believed it would impress the judges, some of her teammates weren’t convinced.

Across the mat, Tori watched Lena demonstrate the stunt again. Tori had joined the squad only a year ago, and while she admired Lena’s leadership, she worried the new stunt was too risky. She remembered last season’s injury and didn’t want anyone getting hurt before the competition. From Tori’s point of view, the routine didn’t need anything flashy—they just needed to stay safe and work together as a team.

The tension grew as Lena and Tori finally talked after practice. Lena explained that she wanted the squad to feel proud and powerful on the floor, especially after being underestimated by other teams. Tori listened carefully, realizing that Lena wasn’t trying to show off—she was trying to give the team confidence. Still, Tori shared her own perspective: the squad needed to trust each other, and that meant making sure everyone felt secure performing every move.

By the next practice, the two had come up with a solution. Lena agreed to modify the stunt so it was safer, and Tori promised to help the newer members learn it step-by-step. The team practiced with renewed energy, and both girls felt relieved. Their ability to understand each other’s viewpoints not only strengthened their routine but also their friendship—something just as important as winning regionals.


How does Tori’s point of view differ from Lena’s?

A.
Tori believes the team should skip regionals entirely.

B.
Tori thinks Lena should perform the routine alone.

C.
Tori wants to add even more difficult stunts to the routine.

D.
Tori is more focused on safety than impressing the judges.

Answer 1

D. Tori is more focused on safety than impressing the judges. She worries the stunt is too risky and emphasizes keeping the team safe and secure.