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"The Unexpected Friendship" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."
"The Unexpected Friendship" is a beautifully crafted short story that explores the power of friendship and the importance of looking beyond surface-level differences. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 5-8 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.
The package includes the complete short story, which follows the journey of Maya, a shy bookworm, and Zoe, a popular athlete, as they are paired together for a school project. Despite their initial reluctance, the two girls discover a shared passion and form an unlikely but powerful bond. Through their friendship, they confront personal challenges, overcome social barriers, and learn to support one another in the face of adversity.
In addition to the full text, this guide provides a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills while fostering a deeper understanding of the text.
Key features of this literature guide:
The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:
By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of empathy, open-mindedness, and the power of unexpected connections. "The Unexpected Friendship" is a relatable and heartwarming story that will captivate your students and inspire meaningful discussions in your classroom.
Edgar Allan Poe "The Tell-Tale Heart" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 22-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Tell-Tale Heart" by Edgar Allan Poe. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* similes
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* irony
* symbolism
* quotations
* story elements
* characterization
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* interviews
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
All Summer in a Day by Ray Bradbury SEL Lesson: Social Awareness
By Ms. J's ELA
This social emotional learning lesson uses Ray Bradbury's short story "All Summer in a Day." The short story is not included in this resources, but it can be found online. The focus of the lesson is social awareness.
This resource is a Google File that includes a PDF and Google Slides version of the teaching slides, which can be projected in front of the class, 4 student worksheets in color and 4 in b/w, and a teaching guide.
The lesson includes:
- Pre-reading Journal and Discussion Question
- Reading Questions for All Summer in a Day
- Cause and Effect Questions for All Summer in a Day
- Definition of Social Awareness
- Discussion Questions Regarding Social Awareness Situations
- Social Awareness Questions Related to All Summer in a Day and a Personal Reflection Question
By Richard B Williams
This Hawk Sneve "THE MEDICINE BAG" TEXT allows students to look at themselves, their relationships, and their society. This prose encourages insightful responses. 6th - 8th Graders will love this short work and resource. Check it out!
SUMMARY:
Hawk Sneve's The Medicine Bag highlights Martin and his relationship with his grandfather who belongs to the Native American land of South Dakota. Hailing from a mixed heritage, Martin is conscious about his grandfather’s unexpected visit to his house and fears the oblivion of the fantastical image surrounding the old man that he otherwise shares with his friends after every summer visit. the visit that would change his life forever.
This 6th - 8th grade canonized work allows students to look at themselves, their heritage and culture, their world, and their life's journey.
This Product Includes:
1. Short Narrative Prose
(a) Colored Version
(b) Black & White Version
(c) Audio Version
(d) ***NEW*** STUDENT COVER PAGE (to assign as workbook)
(e) ***NEW*** SUGGESTED USES (includes how to use L.A.P. Charts video)
(f) ***NEW*** LITERARY ANALYSIS PARITICPATION (L.A.P.) CHART
and NOTES PAGE
You may also appreciate:
WINTER DREAMS [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
HIGH HORSE GOES COURTING [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
THE OPEN WINDOW [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
AN OCCURRENCE AT OWL CREEK BRIDGE [TASK CARDS]
THE SNIPER [TASK CARDS]
A WORN PATH [TASK CARDS]
PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:
TheAngryTeacherBLOG
EMAIL LIST
Youtube
TIKTOK
Hey Angry Teacher Fam,
I'm Richard Williams, The Angry Teacher. I've been teaching for 20+ Years , and have amassed quite a bit of knowledge to share. Please consider joining the Angry Teacher family; we'll enjoy having you in the fam!
Please consider checking out the other EDUCATIONAL materials and resources in my store.
Also, guys, remember that leaving REVIEWS is a way that TeachShare gives you credit on products! So let's do it!
Thanks for stopping by!
"The Bully in the Mirror" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.
Empower your middle schoolers to understand and combat bullying with this comprehensive novel study centered around "The Bully in the Mirror." This engaging story follows Jayden, a student who uses bullying to mask his own insecurities, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns the power of empathy and change.
This ready-to-use resource provides everything you need to guide your students through a meaningful exploration of the story's themes, including:
"The Bully in the Mirror" novel study unit is perfect for:
This resource is designed to:
Give your students the tools they need to recognize, understand, and combat bullying with this impactful and engaging novel study unit. Download "The Bully in the Mirror" today!
Joan Aiken "Lob's Girl" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 27-page set of worksheets for the short story "Lob's Girl" by Joan Aiken. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* story analysis
* similes
* sensory imagery
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* setting
* conflict
* foreshadowing
* symbols
* quotations
* characterization
* connections
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
By Richard B Williams
This Hawk Sneve "THE MEDICINE BAG" TEXT allows students to look at themselves, their relationships, and their society. This prose encourages insightful responses. 6th - 8th Graders will love this short work and resource. Check it out!
SUMMARY:
Hawk Sneve's The Medicine Bag highlights Martin and his relationship with his grandfather who belongs to the Native American land of South Dakota. Hailing from a mixed heritage, Martin is conscious about his grandfather’s unexpected visit to his house and fears the oblivion of the fantastical image surrounding the old man that he otherwise shares with his friends after every summer visit. the visit that would change his life forever.
This 6th - 8th grade canonized work allows students to look at themselves, their heritage and culture, their world, and their life's journey.
This Product Includes:
1. Short Narrative Prose
(a) Colored Version
(b) Black & White Version
(c) Audio Version
(d) ***NEW*** STUDENT COVER PAGE (to assign as workbook)
(e) ***NEW*** SUGGESTED USES (includes how to use L.A.P. Charts video)
(f) ***NEW*** LITERARY ANALYSIS PARITICPATION (L.A.P.) CHART
and NOTES PAGE
You may also appreciate:
WINTER DREAMS [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
HIGH HORSE GOES COURTING [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
THE OPEN WINDOW [LESSON ACTIVITIES]
AN OCCURRENCE AT OWL CREEK BRIDGE [TASK CARDS]
THE SNIPER [TASK CARDS]
A WORN PATH [TASK CARDS]
PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:
TheAngryTeacherBLOG
EMAIL LIST
Youtube
TIKTOK
Hey Angry Teacher Fam,
I'm Richard Williams, The Angry Teacher. I've been teaching for 20+ Years , and have amassed quite a bit of knowledge to share. Please consider joining the Angry Teacher family; we'll enjoy having you in the fam!
Please consider checking out the other EDUCATIONAL materials and resources in my store.
Also, guys, remember that leaving REVIEWS is a way that TeachShare gives you credit on products! So let's do it!
Thanks for stopping by!
"The Loyal Sidekick" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."
"The Loyal Sidekick" is an inspiring short story that explores the unbreakable bond of friendship, the challenges of balancing loyalty and personal ambition, and the power of believing in oneself. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 6-9 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.
The package includes the complete short story and a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the text.
Key features of this literature guide:
The full text of "The Loyal Sidekick" short story (approximately 1,500 words)
10 engaging assignments and projects covering character analysis, creative writing, theme exploration, and drama activities
A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to enhance students' word knowledge
Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 5-9
The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:
Character analysis and development
Alternate ending and dialogue writing exercises
Theme exploration through essay writing
Set design and monologue performance activities
Friendship collage creation and news article writing
Soundtrack creation and drama games focused on teamwork and communication
By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of friendship, loyalty, and pursuing one's dreams. "The Loyal Sidekick" is a heartwarming and relatable story that will captivate your students' hearts and minds, fostering meaningful discussions and personal growth in your classroom.
O. Henry "The Gift of the Magi" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 24-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* similes
* personification
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* irony
* symbolism
* quotations
* story elements
* characterization
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* interviews
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
Kiribati: Rising Tides, Resilient Hearts - Realistic Fiction
By Mark Holmes
This story is also available as part of an eight story ebook, "Young Voices: Eight Short Stories of Courage & Resilience."
Embark on a poignant journey with "Rising Tides, Resilient Hearts," a heart-rending tale of resilience in the face of nature's relentless force. This narrative follows Ana and Lani, two young girls from the imperiled island of Kiribati, as they grapple with the reality of their sinking homeland. With the rising tides threatening to erase their ancestral roots, the community faces a heart-wrenching decision. Through the bonds of friendship and the echoes of ancestral wisdom, our young heroines navigate the emotional tides of leaving their beloved island. This story not only reflects the global issue of climate change but also illuminates the enduring spirit of a culture on the brink of displacement. Witness how love, memory, and the power of storytelling become the vessel for preserving a disappearing world, inspiring young readers to understand and embrace the challenges of change.
There are thought provoking questions (and possible answers) at the end of the story.
General Learning Objectives for Deep by Design stories:
Understanding Conflict: The material offers insights into the dynamics of territorial conflicts and their ramifications for those caught in the crossfire.
Effects of War or Conflict on Youth: The content underlines the deep-seated impact of hostilities on the mental and physical health of children and adolescents.
Resilience and Hope: Through character experiences, the narrative highlights the human capacity for endurance and the quest for collective healing amidst adversity.
Cultural Insight: The text provides a window into the complexities of a region's culture and the intense obstacles its inhabitants endure.
Human Rights: The narrative serves as a primer for dialogues concerning the safeguarding of civilians and the enforcement of human rights in times of strife.
Peacebuilding: The book promotes an investigation into the adoption of nonviolent strategies for mitigating disputes and fostering reconciliation at the community level.
Daniel Keyes "Flowers for Algernon" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 30-page set of worksheets for the short story "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* story interpretation
* vocabulary
* story analysis
* similes
* metaphors
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* setting
* conflict
* irony
* suspense
* symbols
* quotations
* characterization
* connections
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
Iqbal & Yasmin: A Kashmiri Story - Realistic Fiction 5-8
By Mark Holmes
This story is also available as part of an eight story ebook, "Young Voices: Eight Short Stories of Courage & Resilience."
Set during the Kashmir conflict, "Iqbal and Yasmin: A Story of Childhood in Kashmir" tells the poignant story of two siblings experiencing the harrowing realities of war. Iqbal, an eight-year-old boy, and his sister Yasmin face the loss of innocence as their village is engulfed by violence with Indian and Pakistani forces in constant contention. Yasmin suffers a traumatic assault by a soldier, while Iqbal strives to restore normalcy by organizing cricket games. Their childhood is a stark contrast of fear and a courageous attempt to find joy and unity in a time of despair.
There are thought provoking questions (and possible answers) at the end of the story.
Learning Objectives
Understanding Conflict: The book provides a lens to view the Kashmir conflict and its effects on the local population.
Effects of War on Children: It emphasizes the profound impact of conflict on the mental and physical well-being of young people.
Resilience and Hope: Iqbal's actions illustrate the capacity for resilience and the pursuit of communal healing even in the darkest times.
Cultural Insight: Readers learn about Kashmir's rich culture and the severe challenges its people face.
Human Rights: The story is a gateway to discussions about protecting civilians and upholding human rights during conflict.
Peacebuilding: It encourages the exploration of non-violent methods for conflict resolution and peacebuilding within communities.
W. W. Jacobs "The Monkey's Paw" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 27-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Monkey's Paw" by W. W. Jacobs. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* irony
* foreshadowing
* setting
* conflict
* symbolism
* quotations
* story elements
* characterization
* connections
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
Embark on a journey of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth with this captivating collection of eight short stories, perfect for teaching social-emotional learning and character education in the classroom.
"Friendship and Loyalty: Stories about the Challenges and Rewards of Maintaining Strong Friendships" is a powerful tool for educators seeking to foster meaningful discussions and lessons on the importance of building and maintaining healthy relationships. Each story in this collection highlights different aspects of friendship, such as trust, empathy, communication, and standing up for what's right, making it an invaluable resource for teaching essential life skills.
As students follow the journeys of Emma and Olivia, Jack and Liam, Maya and Zoe, and other memorable characters, they will learn valuable lessons about the power of unexpected connections, the importance of reconciliation, and the strength that comes from supporting one another through difficult times. These stories also tackle important topics such as peer pressure, standing up for oneself and others, and the consequences of one's actions on friendships.
Each story comes with a vocab list (word, part of speech, definition), a selection of potential assignments, a breakdown of the story structure, and applicable Common Core and National Health Education standards. All stories are also available individually from the DEEPbyDESIGN store.
Friendship and Loyalty: Stories about the Challenges and Rewards of Maintaining Strong Friendship
Guy de Maupassant "The Necklace" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 25-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Necklace" by Guy de Maupassant. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* story analysis
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* setting
* conflict
* symbols
* quotations
* characterization
* connections
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Since this story was originally written in French, there are various versions in English. The version that I used to make these worksheets can be found at the following link:
http://www.isd518.net/Websites/isd518/files/Content/3804973/GUY\_DE\_MAUPASSANT.pdf
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
"The Bully's Redemption" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.
Engage your students with "The Bully's Redemption," a powerful short story that explores the complexities of bullying, empathy, and personal growth. This comprehensive learning package is designed to help students in grades 6-9 develop critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and a deeper understanding of the importance of kindness and second chances.
The package includes:
An in-depth exploration of the story's themes, tailored for grades 5-8
Through this learning package, your students will:
This versatile resource can be easily integrated into your language arts, literature, or social-emotional learning curriculum. The projects and assignments are designed to cater to various learning styles, promoting engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of the story's themes.
Chinua Achebe "Civil Peace" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 27-page set of worksheets for the short story "Civil Peace" by Chinua Achebe. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* vocabulary
* story analysis
* similes
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* setting
* conflict
* symbolism
* historical fiction
* quotations
* story elements
* characterization
* connections
* compare and contrast
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
"The Silent Struggle" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
The Silent Struggle: A Powerful Resource for Addressing Bullying and Promoting Social-Emotional Learning
This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here
Inspire your students to become advocates for change with "The Silent Struggle," a captivating story that tackles the issue of bullying and the transformative power of self-advocacy. This comprehensive learning package is designed to help students in grades 6-8 develop empathy, resilience, and the courage to speak out against injustice.
The package includes:
Through this powerful resource, your students will:
"The Silent Struggle" learning package is a versatile tool that can be seamlessly integrated into your language arts, social studies, or character education curriculum. The projects and assignments are designed to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring that all students can engage with the material and develop a deeper understanding of the story's themes.
Arthur C. Clarke "The Nine Billion Names of God" worksheets
By Peter D
This is a 29-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Nine Billion Names of God" by Arthur C. Clarke. The comprehension questions can be used as a story test or as a learning activity for students as they read the story.
The worksheets include:
* comprehension questions (multiple choice)
* comprehension questions (short answer)
* story interpretation
* vocabulary
* story analysis
* similes
* metaphors
* personification
* story reflection
* theme
* motif
* point of view
* setting
* conflict
* irony
* suspense
* symbols
* quotations
* characterization
* connections
* w questions
* story map
* story elements
* critical thinking
* inferences
* summaries
* transformation
* writing
There is also an answer key included at the end of the file.
Worksheets for Short Stories:
* Toni Cade Bambara: Raymond’s Run
* Ray Bradbury: There Will Come Soft Rains
* Arthur Cavanaugh: Miss Awful
* Richard Connell: The Most Dangerous Game
* Roald Dahl: The Landlady
* Shirley Jackson: The Lottery
* Piri Thomas: Amigo Brothers
* ...and more worksheets for short stories
"The Invisible Scars" - Short Story / Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8
By Mark Holmes
*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.
Help Your Students Explore Bullying & Resilience with "The Invisible Scars"
A Powerful Story & Engaging Activities for Grades 5-8
"The Invisible Scars" is a compelling short story about Avery, a middle school student struggling with the long-term effects of bullying. This relatable narrative provides a springboard for meaningful discussions about mental health, self-esteem, and the importance of seeking help.
This comprehensive resource includes:
A moving short story (approx. 2,000 words) that tackles the sensitive topic of bullying and its lasting impact on a young person's life.
Engaging activities designed to deepen students' understanding of the story's themes, including:
A comprehensive vocabulary list to enhance students' reading comprehension and vocabulary development.
"The Invisible Scars" will help your students:
This resource is perfect for: