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STATETest PrepLiteracyGrades 3-4
Included in this packet:Nonfiction Reading Passages/Questions:* Plant It!* Fenway: Boston’s Favorite Pastime* Ruby Bridges: An American Hero* Wrestling: Is it Just a Sport?* Martin Luther King, Jr. –A True Leader
Fiction Reading Passages/Questions:* The BIG and the Small* Best Friends* The Case of the Missing Backpack* Poem
Editing/Revising/Continuing Writing:* Editing: The Turtle Story* Revising: Sparkly Sarah* Persuasive Writing: Homework or NOT!* Persuasive Writing: Wrestling is a Good Sport* Best Friends-Continuing the story
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Literacy©Can’t Stop Smiling
Plant it!Gardening can be a rewarding hobby if you are willing to put in the time, but there are several things you need to know as a beginner. First, you might have specific preferences with regard to color. You might also need to consider your lifestyle and the maintenance required when deciding upon which type of plants to grow. Once you decide which type of garden you would like to grow, and how much time you are willing to commit, you are ready to begin. There are two main types of plants: annuals and perennials.
Plants that are planted annually are referred to as annuals. A few common annuals are petunias, geraniums and impatiens. You are likely to see these in large numbers during the summer months. Each of these begin to flower in late spring or early spring depending on the climate. Petunias and geraniums do best with lots of sun whereas impatiens do best in the shade with minimal sun. Annuals do not come back the following year. Many gardeners prefer annuals because of their rich and vibrant colors.
Perennials are plants that can be planted once and come back each year. Perennials are often favorites among gardeners as they return each year, often stronger and more abundant. Popular perennials include tulips, daffodils and daisies. Tulip and daffodil bulbs are often planted in early fall and bloom in early spring.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. What is the main idea in paragraph 1?
A. Planting can be time consuming work.B. Gardening can be hard to learn, especially for beginners.C. Gardening can be fun as long as you identify your preferences.D. There are different types of plants: annuals and perennials.
2. Write two sentences from the text that support your answer to #1.
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Continued: Plant it!* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 3. What is a synonym for “abundant” in the 3rd paragraph?
A. full of color
D. wide
C. plentiful
B. scattered
4. Refer again to the 3rd paragraph. Why would “even more
abundant” be a good thing for a new gardener?
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
5. The author named several differences between annuals and
perennials. Which difference was probably the most notable?
A. They bloom at different times of year.
B. One type has bright colors and the others do not.
C. They thrive in different climates.
D. One comes back each year and one needs to be planted each year.
6. Why do you think the author used the word “maintenance”
in the first paragraph?”
A. Plants need to be cared for.
B. Plants might die without water.
C. Gardening could take a long time.
D. Plants need lots of sunlight.©Can’t Stop Smiling
Plant it!Gardening can be a rewarding hobby if you are willing to put in the time, but there are several things you need to know as a beginner. First, you might have specific preferences with regard to color. You might also need to consider your lifestyle and the maintenance required when deciding upon which type of plants to grow. Once you decide which type of garden you would like to grow, and how much time you are willing to commit, you are ready to begin. There are two main types of plants: annuals and perennials.
Plants that are planted annually are referred to as annuals. A few common annuals are petunias, geraniums and impatiens. You are likely to see these in large numbers during the summer months. Each of these begin to flower in late spring or early spring depending on the climate. Petunias and geraniums do best with lots of sun whereas impatiens do best in the shade with minimal sun. Annuals do not come back the following year. Many gardeners prefer annuals because of their rich and vibrant colors.
Perennials are plants that can be planted once and come back each year. Perennials are often favorites among gardeners as they return each year, often stronger and more abundant. Popular perennials include tulips, daffodils and daisies. Tulip and daffodil bulbs are often planted in early fall and bloom in early spring.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. What is the main idea in paragraph 1?
A. Planting can be time consuming work.B. Gardening can be hard to learn, especially for beginners.C. Gardening can be fun as long as you identify your preferences.D. There are different types of plants: annuals and perennials.
2. Write two sentences from the text that support your answer to #1.
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________©Can’t Stop Smiling
See underlined sentences.
Continued: Plant it!* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 3. What is a synonym for “abundant” in the 3rd paragraph?
A. full of color
D. wide
C. plentiful
B. scattered
4. Refer again to the 3rd paragraph. Why would “even more
abundant” be a good thing for a new gardener?
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
5. The author named several differences between annuals and
perennials. Which difference was probably the most notable?
A. They bloom at different times of year.
B. One type has bright colors and the others do not.
C. They thrive in different climates.
D. One comes back each year and one needs to be planted each year.
6. Why do you think the author used the word “maintenance”
in the first paragraph?”
A. Plants need to be cared for.
B. Plants might die without water.
C. Gardening could take a long time.
D. Plants need lots of sunlight.©Can’t Stop Smiling
More plants, less work to do, new gardeners don’t have lots of plants yet
Fenway: Boston’s Favorite Pastime
Walk into one of the nation’s most historic ball parks and you just might be taken in by the joy of the sport. Whether it is the aroma of Fenway franks, the green monster, or even the roar of the crowd as they chant to songs by Neil Diamond, once you have visited what we call Fenway, you are forever changed.
Fenway Park seats about 37,000 people on a good day. Getting a bad seat is almost impossible given the size of the stadium. From almost every seat, you can savor the enormity of the green monster both in size and stature. Every time I view the monster, I am reminded of so many who came before, how long it has stood and the Boston pride that it represents.
The next time you visit Boston, make sure to stop by Lansdowne Street. You just might be converted as you throw down a Fenway frank and cheer on the red and blue. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Where do you think the author is from? _____________________
2. Why do you think that? Make sure to use evidence from the text.
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3. Using evidence from the text, explain the author’s personal
opinion regarding Fenway. ________________________________________
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4. What do you think the word “stature” means in this essay?
_______________________________________________________________________
Which words in the text make you think this? _______________________
_______________________________________________________________________
5. What does the word “savor” mean in the second paragraph?
6. The author refers to the “green monster.” What do you think that
is? ____________________________________________________________________
Why do you think that? ______________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Continued: Fenway: Boston’s Favorite Pastime
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* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
D. appreciate
C. read aboutB. see
A. taste
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Fenway: Boston’s Favorite Pastime
Walk into one of the nation’s most historic ball parks and you just might be taken in by the joy of the sport. Whether it is the aroma of Fenway franks, the green monster, or even the roar of the crowd as they chant to songs by Neil Diamond, once you have visited what we call Fenway, you are forever changed. #1
Fenway Park seats about 37,000 people on a good day. Getting a bad seat is almost impossible given the size of the stadium. From almost every seat, you can savor the enormity of the green monster both in size and stature. Every time I view the monster, I am reminded of so many who came before, how long it has stood and the Boston pride that it represents. #2
The next time you visit Boston, make sure to stop by Lansdowne Street. You just might be converted as you throw down a Fenway frank and cheer on the red and blue. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Where do you think the author is from? _____________________
2. Why do you think that? Make sure to use evidence from the text.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3. Using evidence from the text, explain the author’s personal
opinion regarding Fenway. ________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________©Can’t Stop Smiling
Perhaps Boston
See underlined sentences #1 and #2
See underlined sentences #1 and #2
4. What do you think the word “stature” means in this essay?
_______________________________________________________________________
Which words in the text make you think this? _______________________
5. What does the word “savor” mean in the second paragraph?
6. The author refers to the “green monster.” What do you think that
is?
7. Why do you think that?
Continued: Fenway: Boston’s Favorite Pastime
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________________________________________________________________________
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
D. appreciate
C. read aboutB. see
A. taste
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Importance(prominence)
green monster both in size and stature. Every time I view the monster, I am reminded of so many who came before, how long it has stood and the Boston pride that it represents
A stadium or place where people gather
Fenway Park seats about 37,000 people on a good day. Getting a bad seat is almost impossible given the size of the stadium. From almost every seat, you can savor the enormity of the green monster both in size and stature.
The Big and the Small
A young walrus was lying down by the water hole near his home. His father was not far, off to greet a new child. He had left the young walrus all alone.
Suddenly, the young walrus spotted a polar bear wandering to the water hole. The polar bear was big although he looked famished. His fur was loosely hanging from his torso and his legs were shaggy from searching for food. A strong light glinting off a dead fish caught his eye and his stomach lurched from hunger. As he approached the young Walrus, he started to stumble. Slowly, his body collapsed to the ground from endless wandering and the severe fatigue that he was facing.
The pup gazed curiously at the unfamiliar face and looked around, searching for his father. However, he was alone, absolutely helpless.“Who are you?” the pup asked under his breath as he glanced at the polar bear lying in the snow. The bear’s ears flared and he slowly lifted his head off the ground. The pup maintained a sheer look of fear and curiosity as the bear opened his mouth to speak. “I’m your father’s friend,” he lied. The pup was confused. “I didn’t know my father was friends with any polar bears.”
The polar bear saw the opportunity and painfully arose from his position. He crawled over to the spot where the pup was lying down and plopped himself a few feet away from him.
“Your father sent me here…” the polar bear stumbled upon his words, carefully crafting them to fool the naïve creature. “He asked me to pick up some fish for the ceremony.”
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
The pup nodded, gesturing toward his father’s food which was lying on the ground in front of the polar bear. The bear swallowed the fish in one gulp and glared, still hungry, at the pup.
The bear knew exactly what he was going to do, the pup clueless as to what was bound to happen. The pup's innocence was purely what gave the bear the idea. Boom! The sound of a large crash echoed through the empty arctic desert and the pup’s father stood, strong and mighty, above the two creatures. The polar bear's demeanor changed, and he cowered as the monstrous animal slowly moved closer to protect his son. “Why don’t you pick on someone who can actually defend themselves?” the walrus growled as he pounced at the polar bear. The polar bear had been hovering over the pup ready to attack him as the pup’s father approached. A few moments later, the polar bear was gone, never to be seen again.
Continued:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. What does the word “famished” mean in the second paragraph?
_____________________ Which words in the text led you to that
definition? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. Name a trait that describes polar bear. ___________________________
Using specific evidence from the text, explain why you selected that
particular trait. _______________________________________________________
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The Big and the Small* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
3. What words did the author use to give the reader insight into
Pup? _____________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
4. What do you think the word naïve means? Use text from the
passage to support your definition. _______________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5. Which words below best support the idea that the polar bear had
ill intentions?
Continued:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Big and the Small
A. The bear's ears flared
B. He slowly lifted his head off the ground
C. The polar bear saw his opportunityD. He started to stumble
6. What does the word “cowered" mean in the last paragraph?
D. cried
A. backed away in fear
C. pushed forwardB. attacked
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
The pup nodded, gesturing toward his father’s food which was lying on the ground in front of the polar bear. The bear swallowed the fish in one gulp and glared, still hungry, at the pup.
The bear knew exactly what he was going to do, the pup clueless as to what was bound to happen. The pup's innocence was purely what gave the bear the idea. Boom! The sound of a large crash echoed through the empty arctic desert and the pup’s father stood, strong and mighty, above the two creatures. The polar bear's demeanor changed, and he cowered as the monstrous animal slowly moved closer to protect his son. “Why don’t you pick on someone who can actually defend themselves?” the walrus growled as he pounced at the polar bear. The polar bear had been hovering over the pup ready to attack him as the pup’s father approached. A few moments later, the polar bear was gone, never to be seen again.
Continued:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. What does the word “famished” mean in the second paragraph?
_____________________ Which words in the text led you to that
definition? ________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2. Name a trait that describes polar bear. ___________________________
Using specific evidence from the text, explain why you selected that
particular trait. _______________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
The Big and the Small* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Like he hadn’t eaten for days
fur was loosely hanging from his torso and his legs were shaggy from searching for food
3. What words did the author use to give the reader insight into
Pup? _____________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
4. What do you think the word naïve means? Use text from the
passage to support your definition. _______________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
5. Which words below best support the idea that the polar bear had
ill intentions?
Continued:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Big and the Small
A. The bear's ears flared
B. He slowly lifted his head off the ground
C. The polar bear saw his opportunityD. He started to stumble
6. What does the word “cowered" mean in the last paragraph?
D. cried
A. backed away in fear
C. pushed forwardB. attacked
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Answers
Who is Ruby Bridges? Ruby Bridges is an American hero who was thrust into the middle of the desegregation crisis in 1960. Ruby was just 6 years old when she passed a test that permitted her to attend an all white school. She was the only African American student in an all white school, at a time when most white people denounced integration of blacks and whites. As Ruby walked to school in New Orleans, Louisiana on November 14th, 1960, white people threw things at her and screamed at her, however, she continued to walk to school every day. Whites pulled their kids out of school. Even teachers refused to teach Ruby, except for one teacher, Barbara Henry.
Barbara Henry became Ruby’s only teacher, and Ruby, her only student. They continue to share a very special bond today. Ruby paved the way for other black children in so many ways. Because of Ruby’s bravery and strong will, other black children began to attend white schools. Ruby’s brave act was a significant contributor to the civil rights movement and the end of segregation. Ruby Bridges, now Ruby Bridges Hall, still lives in New Orleans with her husband and four sons. She has received numerous awards including the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2001.
Ruby Bridges: An American Hero
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. What does “denounced integration” mean in the first paragraph?
A. Fought for freedom
B. Criticized the separation of
C. Fought against the combining of the two
D. A and B
Continued: Ruby Bridges* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. Why did the author include/describe Ruby’s walks to school?
A. To tell the reader that Ruby was not allowed to take the bus
D. B and CC. To emphasize Ruby’s bravery and determination
B. To inform the reader of how cruelly black people were treated
3. In the second paragraph, what did the author mean by
“paved the way”?
A. Walked the road all by herself
A. distinction
D. religion
5. What was the author’s purpose for this article?
B. addition
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. Acted bravely
C. Brought attention and change to an important issue
D. Made the roads smoother
4. Refer to the 2nd paragraph. What is a synonym for
segregation?
C. division
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________________________________________________________________________
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Who is Ruby Bridges? Ruby Bridges is an American hero who was thrust into the middle of the desegregation crisis in 1960. Ruby was just 6 years old when she passed a test that permitted her to attend an all white school. She was the only African American student in an all white school, at a time when most white people denounced integration of blacks and whites. As Ruby walked to school in New Orleans, Louisiana on November 14th, 1960, white people threw things at her and screamed at her, however, she continued to walk to school every day. Whites pulled their kids out of school. Even teachers refused to teach Ruby, except for one teacher, Barbara Henry.
Barbara Henry became Ruby’s only teacher, and Ruby, her only student. They continue to share a very special bond today. Ruby paved the way for other black children in so many ways. Because of Ruby’s bravery and strong will, other black children began to attend white schools. Ruby’s brave act was a significant contributor to the civil rights movement and the end of segregation. Ruby Bridges, now Ruby Bridges Hall, still lives in New Orleans with her husband and four sons. She has received numerous awards including the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2001.
Ruby Bridges: An American Hero
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. What does “denounced integration” mean in the first paragraph?
A. Fought for freedom
B. Criticized the separation of
C. Fought against the combining of the two
D. A and B
Continued: Ruby Bridges* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. Why did the author include/describe Ruby’s walks to school?
A. To tell the reader that Ruby was not allowed to take the bus
D. B and CC. To emphasize Ruby’s bravery and determination
B. To inform the reader of how cruelly black people were treated
3. In the second paragraph, what did the author mean by
“paved the way”?
A. Walked the road all by herself
A. distinction
D. religion
5. What was the author’s purpose for this article?
B. division
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. Acted bravely
C. Brought attention and change to an important issue
D. Made the roads smoother
4. Refer to the 2nd paragraph. What is a synonym for
segregation?
C. addition
©Can’t Stop Smiling
To inform the reader of the unfair treatment of black people/to inform the reader of the American hero, Ruby Bridges/to inform the reader of someone who caused significant change to the civil rights movement
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Ruby Bridges- Writing About Ruby Bridges
Using the information you now have about Ruby Bridges. Write a persuasive essay detailing why or why not there should be a special day on the calendar called “Ruby Bridges” day. Remember to refer to the article on Ruby Bridges to plan and write your argument.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Max Baxter was in the third grade. He was in Mr. Wilson’s class at Hawley Elementary School. Max loved reading books, especially mysteries. Max kept a tiny little notebook with him at all times. He could often be seen feverishly jotting notes in it each day. No one knew exactly what he was writing in his tiny little notebook.
It was dismissal time and all of the students in Mr. Wilson’s class were instructed to grab their backpacks and pack up their belongings. The students moaned because they did not want to leave today. Today, Mr. Wilson brought in his dog, Sparky, to show to the class. As the students reluctantly packed up, Sara Simmons was complaining that she could not find her backpack. Sara Simmons was also in third grade but unlike Max, Sara did not like books. She only liked cookies, chocolate chip cookies. At every chance she got, Sara would steal a cookie from her backpack. Sara’s desk was the one always covered with crumbs.
“Help, I cannot find my backpack.” Well, this was a huge problem, because without her cookies, Sara was known to become quite cranky. “Where did you have it last?” asked Mr. Wilson. “What is inside of it?” asked Max. Sara was too flustered to answer any questions. Max began to jot in his tiny little notebook.
As the students left the classroom one by one, they said their goodbyes to Sparky, who had been quietly munching on something in the science corner all day. The kids couldn’t help but notice the crumbs in Sparky’s fur. Bye Sparky, they yelled.
The Case of the Missing Backpack
©Can’t Stop Smiling
On the next page, you will answer a few questions about what has already happened in the story. THEN, you will continue writing the story the way you think the story would go if you continued reading. As you write, remember to consider what has already happened in the story.
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The Case of the Missing Backpack* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. In the 1st paragraph, what do you think feverishly means?
A. quietly
D. hotC. excitably
B. sadly
2. What do you think the word reluctantly means in the 2nd
paragraph?
A. quickly
A. It was dismissal time
D. The students moaned
4. Where was the backpack? Use text evidence to explain your answer.
B. Sara Simmons was complaining
B. Not wanting to do something
C. excited to do something
D. with lots of worry
3. Refer to #2 above. Which words in the text best support your
definition of reluctantly as answered in question #2?
C. Mr. Wilson brought in his dog
©Can’t Stop Smiling
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Now, you will continue writing the story. Refer to the story, the clues within the story, and the questions you answered. Write the rest of the story the best way you can.
Continued: Missing Backpack
©Can’t Stop Smiling
The Case of the Missing Backpack* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. In the 1st paragraph, what do you think feverishly means?
A. quietly
D. hotC. excitably
B. sadly
2. What do you think the word reluctantly means in the 2nd
paragraph?
A. quickly
A. It was dismissal time
D. The students moaned
4. Where was the backpack? Use text evidence to explain your answer.
B. Sara Simmons was complaining
B. Not wanting to do something
C. excited to do something
D. with lots of worry
3. Refer to #2 above. Which words in the text best support your
definition of reluctantly as answered in question #2?
C. Mr. Wilson brought in his dog
©Can’t Stop Smiling
A correct response would state that the dog had the backpack, possibly in the science corner. The clues or evidence from the text would be the crumbs in his fur and Sara’s love of cookies.
Peter and Teddy are the best of friends. They have known each other since the first day of preschool, when Peter was crying in the hallway and Teddy came to his side to comfort him. Ever since then, they have relied on each other for almost everything.
Peter and Teddy do everything together. They walk to school together, sit with each other at lunch, and play together every day at recess. They even like the same things: Legos, Batman and macaroni and cheese. Peter and Teddy are now in the third grade and for the first time EVER, they are not in the same class!
“It’s here!” Teddy yelled when the letter came in the mail. There it was , the letter from school in which Teddy would finally find out who he had for third grade. As he opened the envelope, he screamed with excitement when he realized he had gotten Mr. Garrison. Teddy thought Mr. Garrison was the best third grade teacher. Mr. Garrison lets kids stand on their desks and he throws crazy parties on Fridays. Teddy couldn’t wait to call Peter. He ran to the phone and dialed his number as fast as he could.
Peter answered the phone immediately with excitement in his voice. “Did you get the letter, Teddy? We got Mr. Brown! This is so cool!” Peter thought Mr. Brown was awesome. Mr. Brown played a guitar and Peter loved music more than anything.
There was silence on the other end of the phone.....
Best Friends
On the next page, you will answer a few questions about what has already happened in the story. THEN, you will continue writing the story the way you think the story would go if you continued reading. As you write, remember to consider what has already happened in the story.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Continued: Best Friends* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. Why did the author write the word EVER in capital letters?
A. To tell the reader that they have been friends for a long time
D. B and CC. To emphasize that they have always been together in the same class
B. To stress that they are used to being together
2. What was the significance of the fact that Teddy and Peter
liked Legos and macaroni and cheese?
A. They were good friends.
A. Did you get the letter, Teddy?
D. Mr. Brown played the guitar.
4. Why was there silence on the other end of the phone?
B. We got Mr. Brown!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. They even liked the same food.
C. They even liked the same toy.
D. They had lots in common.
3. Refer to the 4th paragraph. Which sentence was the most
important clue that there was a potential issue?
C. Peter thought Mr. Brown was awesome.
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©Can’t Stop Smiling
Continued: Best Friends* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 1. Why did the author write the word EVER in capital letters?
A. To tell the reader that they have been friends for a long time
D. B and CC. To emphasize that they have always been together in the same class
B. To stress that they are used to being together
2. What was the significance of the fact that Teddy and Peter
liked legos and macaroni and cheese?
A. They were good friends.
A. Did you get the letter, Teddy?
D. Mr. Brown played the guitar.
4. Why was there silence on the other end of the phone?
B. We got Mr. Brown!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. They even liked the same food.
C. They even liked the same toy.
D. They had lots in common.
3. Refer to the 4th paragraph. Which sentence was the most
important clue that there was a potential issue?
C. Peter thought Mr. Brown was awesome.
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©Can’t Stop Smiling
Peter did not get Mr. Brown.
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Now, you will continue writing the story. Refer to the story, the clues within the story, and the questions you answered. Write the rest of the story the best way you can.
Continued: Best Friends
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Wrestling: Is it just a Sport?Youth wrestling is on the rise across the nation. Some wonder what entices these young boys and girls to throw themselves around like little warriors. Most involved in the sport will tell you that it is more than the sport of wrestling that motivates them. What drives them in addition to the competition, is the satisfaction that comes from setting and experiencing your personal best, and the comradery that comes with cheering on your teammates and celebrating their successes.
In the sport of wrestling, kids develop more than just skills that they use on the mat. They learn to be respectful, not only of others but of the sport. Every match ends with a firm handshake between young wresters, their opponents, and all of the coaches. Wrestlers will often come up against the same opponents year after year. Although they are both hoping to come away with a win, they often learn to appreciate their opponents, and see them as comrades, knowing what it has taken to get to this point.
Wrestlers are required to practice often and practice hard. Training sessions are rigorous and require stamina and perseverance, skills that will benefit these young athletes later in life. Strength and endurance are key to becoming a successful wrestler. Acquiring either of these is almost impossible without a lot of practice and discipline.
Wrestling is likely to continue to be one of our nation’s greatest youth sports. When combined with school and other extra curricular activities, wrestling may prove to be more than just a sport.
1. Why did the author select this title for the article?
A. To compare it to other sports
B. To suggest that it is more than just a sport
C. To strengthen his argument that sports are beneficial
D. To remind readers wrestling is a sport
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Continued: Wrestling* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. What is a synonym for “comradery” in the first paragraph?
A. joy
D. friendshipC. communication
B. triumph
3. What was the author’s best reason for mentioning the firm
handshake in the 2nd paragraph?
A. He wanted to encourage readers to give handshakes.
A. Wrestlers understand how hard their opponents have worked.
A. demanding
D. Wrestlers have to train often.
5. What does the word “rigorous” mean in the 3rd paragraph?
B. Wrestlers practice harder than other athletes.
B. difficultC. challengingD. All of the above
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. He thought that giving handshakes was unusual.
C. He wanted to remind us to be thankful for coaches.
D. He wanted to give an example of the respect given.
4. Refer again to the 2nd paragraph. What did the author mean
when he wrote: wrestlers appreciate their opponents ... because
of “ knowing what it has taken to get to this point?”
C. Wrestlers talk to their opponents.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Wrestling: Is it just a Sport?Youth wrestling is on the rise across the nation. Some wonder what entices these young boys and girls to throw themselves around like little warriors. Most involved in the sport will tell you that it is more than the sport of wrestling that motivates them. What drives them in addition to the competition, is the satisfaction that comes from setting and experiencing your personal best, and the comradery that comes with cheering on your teammates and celebrating their successes.
In the sport of wrestling, kids develop more than just skills that they use on the mat. They learn to be respectful, not only of others but of the sport. Every match ends with a firm handshake between young wresters, their opponents, and all of the coaches. Wrestlers will often come up against the same opponents year after year. Although they are both hoping to come away with a win, they often learn to appreciate their opponents, and see them as comrades, knowing what it has taken to get to this point.
Wrestlers are required to practice often and practice hard. Training sessions are rigorous and require stamina and perseverance, skills that will benefit these young athletes later in life. Strength and endurance are key to becoming a successful wrestler. Acquiring either of these is almost impossible without a lot of practice and discipline.
Wrestling is likely to continue to be one of our nation’s greatest youth sports. When combined with school and other extra curricular activities, wrestling may prove to be more than just a sport.
1. Why did the author select this title for the article?
A. To compare it to other sports
B. To suggest that it is more than just a sport
C. To strengthen his argument that sports are beneficial
D. To remind readers wrestling is a sport
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Continued: Wrestling* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. What is a synonym for “comradery” in the first paragraph?
A. joy
D. friendshipC. communication
B. triumph
3. What was the author’s best reason for mentioning the firm
handshake in the 2nd paragraph?
A. He wanted to encourage readers to give handshakes.
A. Wrestlers understand how hard their opponents have worked.
A. demanding
D. Wrestlers have to train often.
5. What does the word “rigorous” mean in the 3rd paragraph?
B. Wrestlers practice harder than other athletes.
B. difficultC. challengingD. All of the above
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. He thought that giving handshakes was unusual.
C. He wanted to remind us to be thankful for coaches.
D. He wanted to give an example of the respect given.
4. Refer again to the 2nd paragraph. What did the author mean
when he wrote: wrestlers appreciate their opponents ... because
of “ knowing what it has taken to get to this point?”
C. Wrestlers talk to their opponents.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
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Wrestling: Part 2- Writing About Wrestling
Using the information you now have about wrestling, write a persuasive essay detailing why wrestling is a good sport. Remember to refer to the article on wrestling to plan and write your argument.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
She lay peacefullyWrapped in a cocoon
Wires, tubes, machines,Surround her too soon
Day into nightNight into day
I wait and I waitFor something to say
Hoping she’ll smileOr tell me a storyOf days gone past
Or days of her glory
I hold out my handI ponder, I pray
Please show me you love meIn some special way
A grasp or a squeeze, How I long for a sign
A sign that you hear meA sign that you’re mine
Your short silver curlsYour sweet crinkled face
I’ll never forget youI’ll never replace
Read the POEM below and answer the questions on the next few pages.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
I know that it’s timeI must let you go
Your deep tired eyesAre telling me so
Can I ask one small favor?One simple request
May I keep loving youEven after you rest?
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Who is the subject of this poem?
A. Wires, tubes, machines, surround her too soon
B. An older womanC. A grandmotherD. An older teacher
2. Which line (or lines) is your evidence for your answer in #1?
A. An older man
B. Your short silver curls, your sweet crinkled face
C. Your deep tired eyes are telling me so
D. Please show me you love me, in some special way
3. What is the message of this poem?
©Can’t Stop Smiling
D. Watching someone suffer is difficult
B. It is painful to lose someone you love
C. It is hard to lose a family member
A. Dying is a part of life
POEM continued
4. What did the author mean in the 3rd stanza by “days of her glory”?
A. To demonstrate that love continues even after one is gone
B. Days when she won things
C. Days when she was younger
D. Previous relationships
5. Who do you think the author of this poem is and Why?
A. Happier times
B. To show the power of love
C. To demonstrate the bond between a child and a grandmother
D. To emphasize the importance of love for the sick and dying
©Can’t Stop Smiling
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6. Why do you think the author ended the poem the way s/he did?
I know that it’s timeI must let you go
Your deep tired eyesAre telling me so
Can I ask one small favor?One simple request
May I keep loving youEven after you rest?
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
1. Who is the subject of this poem?
A. Wires, tubes, machines, surround her too soon
B. An older womanC. A grandmotherD. An older teacher
2. Which line (or lines) is your evidence for your answer in #1?
A. An older man
B. Your short silver curls, your sweet crinkled face
C. Your deep tired eyes are telling me so
D. Please show me you love me, in some special way
3. What is the message of this poem?
©Can’t Stop Smiling
D. Watching someone suffer is difficult
B. It is painful to lose someone you love
C. It is hard to lose a family member
A. Dying is a part of life
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
4. What did the author mean in the 3rd stanza by “days of her glory”?
A. To demonstrate that love continues even after one is gone
B. Days when she won things
C. Days when she was younger
D. Previous relationships
5. Who do you think the author of this poem is and Why?
A. Happier times
B. To show the power of love
C. To demonstrate the bond between a child and a grandmother
D. To emphasize the importance of love for the sick and dying
©Can’t Stop Smiling
6. Why do you think the author ended the poem the way s/he did?
The family member or friend of an older woman who is dying. I think this because the author has lots of love for the woman who is dying. The author is sad and says “May I keep loving you even after you rest?”
1. Why did the author include Martin’s feelings at age 5?
A. To tell the reader that Martin was a kind child
B. To show that Martin cared about inequality even at a young age
C. To show us that Martin was a smart child
D. To remind readers that fighting injustice is important
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Martin Luther King, Jr. – A True Leader Martin Luther King grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, with his parents and 2 siblings. From a young age, Martin was upset by how people with dark skin were treated differently and unfairly. At age 5, Martin noticed and wanted to do something about the injustice.
When he was 6 years old, Martin was at a shoe store with his father. The man at the shoe store refused service to them because they were, in his words, “colored people.” This was just one of many incidents that infuriated Martin and led him to challenge the injustice and make it his lifelong mission.
Martin was very intelligent and even skipped 9th and 12th grade because of his strong intellect. In high school, Martin became known for his public speaking ability. He was also the youngest assistant manager of a newspaper delivery station for The Atlanta Journal at the age of 13. Martin passed the college entrance exam at the young age of 15 and attended Morehouse College.
Unlike others, Martin Luther King used the power of words to spread his message. Others used violence to fight for justice. Martin organized peaceful protests to get his message heard. The way he spoke and what he said made people respect him and want to follow him. He was a true leader. His message was clear: people are equal no matter what color or creed.
Continued: MLK Jr* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. Why did the author include the story about the shoe store?
A. To show inappropriate words that were used to describe black people
C. To introduce one incident that led to Martin’s passion for the causeB. To demonstrate the inequality that existed
D. B and C
3. What was the author’s best reason for mentioning the fact
that Martin entered college at age 15?
A. To show how Martin stood apart from his peers intellectually
A. Martin’s speaking ability drew others to him and made him a leader.
A. Words can hurt
D. Martin never used violence.
5. What does the author mean by the “power of words” in the
last paragraph?
B. Martin was passionate about equality.
B. Words can influence
C. Words can have an impact
D. B and C
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. To tell the reader how smart Martin was
C. To inform the reader of Martin’s maturity
D. B and C
4. What is the main idea in the last paragraph?
C. All people are created equal and should be treated fairly.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
E. A and B
E. A and B
1. Why did the author include Martin’s feelings at age 5?
A. To tell the reader that Martin was a kind child
B. To show that Martin cared about inequality even at a young age
C. To show us that Martin was a smart child
D. To remind readers that fighting injustice is important
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
©Can’t Stop Smiling
Martin Luther King, Jr. – A True Leader Martin Luther King grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, with his parents and 2 siblings. From a young age, Martin was upset by how people with dark skin were treated differently and unfairly. At age 5, Martin noticed and wanted to do something about the injustice.
When he was 6 years old, Martin was at a shoe store with his father. The man at the shoe store refused service to them because they were, in his words, “colored people.” This was just one of many incidents that infuriated Martin and led him to challenge the injustice and make it his lifelong mission.
Martin was very intelligent and even skipped 9th and 12th grade because of his strong intellect. In high school, Martin became known for his public speaking ability. He was also the youngest assistant manager of a newspaper delivery station for The Atlanta Journal at the age of 13. Martin passed the college entrance exam at the young age of 15 and attended Morehouse College.
Unlike others, Martin Luther King used the power of words to spread his message. Others used violence to fight for justice. Martin organized peaceful protests to get his message heard. The way he spoke and what he said made people respect him and want to follow him. He was a true leader. His message was clear: people are equal no matter what color or creed.
Continued: MLK Jr* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2. Why did the author include the story about the shoe store?
A. To show inappropriate words that were used to describe black people
C. To introduce one incident that led to Martin’s passion for the causeB. To demonstrate the inequality that existed
D. B and C
3. What was the author’s best reason for mentioning the fact
that Martin entered college at age 15?
A. To show how Martin stood apart from his peers intellectually
A. Martin’s speaking ability drew others to him and made him a leader.
A. Words can hurt
D. Martin never used violence.
5. What does the author mean by the “power of words” in the
last paragraph?
B. Martin was passionate about equality.
B. Words can influence
C. Words can have an impact
D. B and C
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
B. To tell the reader how smart Martin was
C. To inform the reader of Martin’s maturity
D. B and C
4. What is the main idea in the last paragraph?
C. All people are created equal and should be treated fairly.
©Can’t Stop Smiling
E. A and B
E. A and B
It was a warm summer morning in Austin Texas when Turtle slowly
crawled of his shell. It had been days since he has eaten. He crawled
over to pond looking for bugs, but no bugs he crawled over to woods
looking for worms, but no worms. As he searched he become
hungrier and hungrier. Turtle became tired and hopeless. He thought
and thought of a new plan but nothing came to him nothing at all.
maybe I can ask a friend for help he said to himself. Just then Turtle
spotted Frog hopping along with Bird Cockroach and Toad. “Can you
help me find dinner” Frog asked. The four animals looked at Turtle they
look at each other and looked at Turtle again. They decides to share
their food with Turtle together they shared a feast and enjoyed the
warm summer day together as friends.
A student has written the following story. He needs help editing as he has made a few mistakes. Rewrite the story on the lines below with the corrections.
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Sarah was in the third grade at Miller Elementary School. Sarah loved anything that was fancy and sparkly. She even added sparkles to her shoelaces with a glue gun and glitter! Sarah had a little brother named Peter. Peter always ate pancakes for breakfast. One day, Sarah decided she would bring sparkly designs to all of her friends at school, even the boys. Sarah loved school, especially going to gym on Tuesdays. As she was carrying her shimmery designs into the classroom, Sarah tripped and fell. Every shimmery design fell to the floor with her. Each design was in pieces on the floor as students rushed into the classroom, unaware that they had trampled on them.
A student has begun to write a story. She needs help organizing as
she has included a few unimportant details. Rewrite the story on
the lines below with corrections that keep her story focused. Then,
continue and finish writing the story.
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Your job is to write a persuasive essay detailing why children in elementary school should or should not have nightly homework. Refer to the list below to plan and write your argument.
Should have homework:*reinforce skills learned in school*extra practice*builds responsibility*helps kids establish routine*helps kids budget their time
Should NOT have homework:*more time for after school activities*more family time*more time for outdoor play*need down time *brain breaks needed after school day
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___________________________________________________________©Can’t Stop Smiling
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