Ms. Gruwell challenges students to see the similiarities in each other. She asks questions regarding gang violence for students to understand that they are not so different from one another.

Taylor humiliates Laney, the previously nerdy girl in front of everyone at the party.

Don's dad, Charles Billingsley, rushes onto the field during practice. An altercation ensues, and Don is left feeling worthless.

Coach Carter talks to his players about the importance of their future and their chance at attending college. He encourages them to analyze their lives and make choices to better themselves.

Tommy gets upset after his father advises him to be more like his brother Sam. The family discusses how all families have their own problems.