Research how schools have successfully addressed Nora’s concerns about grades and test scores. What might Nora’s reform look like in practice? Explain how your findings align with or deviate from the novel’s themes.

The Report Card suggests that Stephen feels tension between his friendships with the other boys and with Nora. Pick another Clements novel that explores gender dynamics and compare how these themes unfold.

Clements often employs analogies to illustrate his characters’ thoughts and experiences. Choose three analogies from this novel. Explain how each analogy enhances its respective idea and advances characterization or plot.

The Report Card takes place in two primary settings: home and school. How does the context of each setting impact Nora’s relationships with the characters that inhabit those places?

How does Nora’s diction (word choice) help create her unique characterization? Select at least three quotes to support your answer.

Stories contain different types of conflict; examples include man versus man, man versus nature, man verses himself, and man verses society. What is the conflict type in The Report Card, and how does that dynamic influence the characters’ actions and relationships?

How do the novel’s themes about the importance of grades reflect the broader context of American culture regarding work and careers?

Nora often emphasizes how she is different from everyone else. Name three ways that she is similar to other people and describe the implications of those similarities to the narrative.