Symptoms of Being Human

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

CHAPTERS 1-8

Reading Check

1. What is Riley’s father’s job?

2. When the popular kids make fun of Riley at lunchtime, whose lack of support especially hurts Riley’s feelings?

3. What toy did Riley once choose because they could see their father was uncomfortable with their inability to choose between a Power Ranger and a Bratz doll?

4. Which classmate does Riley find in their kitchen when they return home from school?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. After AP Government, what hint does Solo give that he is not really committed to being friends with Riley?

2. What event in Riley’s life seemed to create a distance between them and their former friend, Derek Yu?

3. What characteristics and behaviors of Bec’s hint that she will be understanding about Riley’s gender dysphoria?

4. What causes Riley to panic and decide they cannot face going to their father’s campaign event?

Paired Resource

“‘Gender Fluidity’: The Ever-Shifting Shape of Identity”

• This BBC News article features the personal experiences of Carla Hernando, a nonbinary Spaniard, as they navigate the complex territory of gender expression.