1. THE CHALLENGE
BY: GARY SOTO

2. ATTENTION Close or careful observing or listening.
I need your attention while I explain your homework.

3. AWKWARD Uncomfortable
It was an awkward moment when the teacher tripped.

4. BRAGGED
Boasted
The boy bragged about getting a new Play Station 3.

5. BRISKLY
Quick, energetically
She walked briskly through the park.

6. CONVERSATION A talk that two or more people have.
They had a conversation about the Academic fair.

7. ENCOURAGE To give support or confidence.
The father will encourage his son to do a good job at school.

8. MANAGED Succeeded in doing something with difficulty.
She managed to complete the difficult task in only a few days.

9. NOTICE To become aware of
Please take notice to the children crossing the street.