After failing to make it on the school's golf team, Jamal learns he has talent in other key areas.
Jamal meets a rich cousin and becomes embarrassed about being "middle-class". He begins a charade of wealth and high manners, which almost alienates his friends. Jamal learns to appreciate the things money can't buy - family, friends, and love.
Jamal is teased at school so C Bear teaches Jamal that words can hurt more than fists, and that bullies are in need of friendship and additional understanding.
Jamal realizes his dad's job isn't very exciting and begins to lose respect for his dad. C Bear shares with him the value of hard work.
Jamal is fired from a commercial and must apologize to his friends for his obnoxious attitude.
When Jamal's father goes on a date, Jamal gets jealous and tries to ruin the experience.
Jamal convinces Maya to act dumb and lower her test scores before she loses all her friends. C Bear convinces Jamal that he gave Maya the wrong advice.
In order to be an advice columnist for the school paper, Jamal lies. When he can no longer lie, he tells the truth and realizes the truth can hurt.
After unsuccessful attempts of asking a girl to the dance, Jamal learns it's best to be himself.
Jamal's respect for his grandfather grows when he steps in for Jamal's father at a school picnic.