Gracie loved school, but lately something felt different. One Monday morning, as she finished getting dressed, she picked up her backpack and nearly stumbled. 

"Whoa! Why is this thing so heavy today?" Gracie asked. 

She looked inside. Nothing seemed unusual.

"Hmm, that's weird," she mumbled.

During history class, Gracie stared at her test review sheet, looking highly discouraged. Gracie then stood up and went to the water dispenser for a drink.

"What if I fail?" she thought. "What if everyone else does better than me?"

But Gracie still felt nervous. Suddenly, a giant history textbook appeared in her backpack. The backpack now felt heavier than before!

Ms. Davis noticed her students' faces, stood in front of the class, and smiled. She figured a few words of encouragement could motivate them through any test anxiety they may be experiencing. 

"Remember, class, mistakes help our brains grow. You all will do well. Everyone, take a deep breath and exhale." 

The test ended, and then everyone went to recess. At recess, Gracie sat with her best friend Maya.

"I can't play today," Gracie said.

"Why not?" Maya asked.

"I have too much to think about," Gracie whispered.

"As a concerned friend, I've noticed that you've been worried a lot lately. What's wrong? Can I help?"

Gracie looked at the ground, shrugged, and said nothing.

Maya frowned. 

Maya said, "Well...alright," as she walked away, annoyed.