8th Grade Close Reading Research

• 10 Winter Holiday Narrative Essay Picture Prompts & Planner: Engage students in narrative writing with holiday-themed picture prompts and a structured planner to develop plot, character, and setting in alignment with creative writing standards.
• Christmas Hip Hop Lyrics Analysis: Teach figurative language, rhyme schemes, and tone through an engaging analysis of hip hop lyrics, blending music and ELA standards for Grades 6-8.
• St. Nick: Informational Text Structures: Explore main ideas, text structures, and author’s purpose with this winter-themed set of informational texts designed to strengthen critical reading skills.
• Unraveling Krampus: Text Structures and Critical Analysis: Develop students’ ability to identify text structures and analyze information critically with this high-interest resource focused on the Krampus folklore.
• Informational Text Structure Coloring Sort: Combine creativity and learning as students sort and color-code winter-themed informational texts to practice identifying text structures.
• Winter Wonders: Exploring Text Features Through Snow-Themed Articles: Strengthen comprehension and analysis skills by examining text features in engaging snow-themed articles, perfect for enhancing nonfiction literacy.
• Christmas Winter Holiday Characters from Around the World Research PBL: Dive into global holiday traditions with this project-based learning activity that encourages research, critical thinking, and presentation skills.
• Holiday Figurative Language & Movie Clip Standard-Based Learning Activities: Analyze figurative language through fun, holiday-themed movie clips that align with ELA figurative language standards for middle schoolers.
• Virtual Winter Sports Exploration: Engage students in a digital exploration of winter sports, focusing on informational text comprehension and analysis for Grades 4-6.
• Analyzing Narrative Point of View Winter-Themed: Develop higher-order thinking with winter-themed narrative texts that challenge students to analyze and compare points of view using Bloom’s Taxonomy.
• Winter Vacation PBL: Inspire creativity and practical application with this low-prep, project-based learning activity where stude

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Hopi people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Ideal for Indigenous People's Day!

Key Features:

Land: Explore where the Hopi people lived, including their location and landscapes.

Homes: Learn about the pueblos and other shelters built by the Hopi, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to the desert environment.

Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Hopi people, designed for their climate and cultural traditions.

Children: Gain insights into the lives of Hopi children, including their roles within the tribe and daily activities.

Influential Hopi – Lewis Teniwana: Delve into the life and achievements of Lewis Teniwana, a notable Hopi leader and advocate for Hopi rights.

Two Differentiated Levels:

Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Hopi culture.

Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Hopi heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Hopi history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet.

Transform your classroom into a winter adventure with this Winter Wonderland Vacation PBL! This engaging, print-and-go project-based learning unit is perfect for the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas or any time during the winter months. Students will plan their dream winter vacation while developing critical skills in research, budgeting, creativity, and presentation. With minimal prep for teachers and maximum excitement for students, this resource is a must-have for your seasonal curriculum!

What’s Included:

✅ 8 Comprehensive Lesson Plans – Covering daily tasks with clear pacing and objectives.
✅ Task Rubrics – Detailed rubrics for all 8 tasks, ensuring easy grading and clear student expectations.
✅ Printable PDFs – Research guides, worksheets, and templates to guide every step of the project.
✅ Editable Slideshow Template – Students create a final presentation showcasing their vacation plans.
✅ Total Budget Sheet Template – A fun and practical way for students to manage costs within a $5,000 limit.
✅ Pacing Plan – Simplified day-by-day instructions for a stress-free implementation.

Skills Covered:

This interdisciplinary project incorporates:
Research Skills: Students investigate destinations, transportation, lodging, activities, and meals.
Math and Budgeting: From calculating costs to managing a $5,000 budget.
Creativity and Design: Crafting a visually appealing slideshow and planning unique trips.
Critical Thinking: Balancing priorities to stay within budget and justifying decisions.
Presentation Skills: Sharing their vacation plans with confidence and clarity.

Why Teachers Love It:

Low Prep: Simply print and go! All materials are ready to use or easily editable.
Flexible Use: Perfect for grades 5+, with extensions for higher or lower ability levels.
Seasonal Fun: Keeps students engaged during the weeks leading up to winter break.
Real-World Learning: Combines academic rigor with practical life skills in a fun, meaningful way.
Time-Saving: Includes ready-to-use rubrics and templates for smooth implementation.

Perfect for:

❄️ The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
❄️ A winter-themed project in January or February.
❄️ Enrichment activities for early finishers or gifted students.
❄️ Cross-curricular lessons with ELA, math, and social studies connections.

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Shoshone people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Perfect for Indigenous People's Day!

***Need a report template?? Look for our research booklet in the bundle***

Key Features:

• Land: Explore where the Shoshone people lived.
• Homes: Learn about the types of homes built by the Shoshone people, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to different environments.
• Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Shoshone people.
• Children: Gain insights into the lives of Shoshone children, including their roles within the tribe.
• Influential Shoshone – Sacagawea: Delve into the life and achievements of Sacagawea, the remarkable Native American woman who played a crucial role as a guide and interpreter during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Two Differentiated Levels:

• Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Shoshone culture.
• Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

• Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.
• Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Shoshone heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Shoshone history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet. Order now and enrich your curriculum with this essential educational tool!

Ready to bring some mystery and creativity to your classroom? This 3-day, interdisciplinary resource will have your students crafting their very own urban legends, exploring local landmarks, developing spine-tingling characters, and writing them up as breaking news! Perfect for grades 6-8, this resource integrates creative writing, social studies, and critical thinking. Your students will love diving into the unknown while meeting CCSS standards.

This Urban Legend Resource Includes:
Guided Notes on Urban Legends – Introduce students to the eerie world of urban legends, from famous creatures like Bigfoot to local mysteries.
Haunted Local Landmark Activity – Students will brainstorm and research a spooky local landmark and use it as the setting for their urban legend.
Character or Creature Development Worksheet – Students create mysterious, frightening characters that are sure to haunt their classmates’ imaginations!
Urban Legend Newspaper Template – Students write their urban legend as a two-page newspaper article, including eyewitness accounts, historical background, and more!
Peer Editing and Sharing – Encourage collaboration and feedback as students swap stories and offer critiques.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Interdisciplinary & Engaging: This resource blends creative writing and social studies, letting students explore local history while crafting an urban legend.
• Standards Aligned: Aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1, RI.6.2, W.6.2, and SL.6.1, focusing on reading, writing, and critical thinking.
• Student-Led & Collaborative: Students get to create their own urban legend from scratch, share their ideas, and receive feedback from peers.
• Perfect for All Learners: Flexible for independent work, small group collaboration, or whole-class discussions.
• 3-Day Lesson Plan Included: Ready-to-use, structured lesson plan that walks students through the entire creative process—brainstorming, writing, and sharing!

3-Day Lesson Plan Breakdown:

1. Day 1: The Haunted Local Landmark – Students choose a local landmark, research its history, and brainstorm how it will serve as the eerie setting for their urban legend.
2. Day 2: Developing the Story Elements – Students create a character or creature that haunts their legend and develop a plot full of suspense.
3. Day 3: Writing a Newspaper Article – Students bring their legend to life by writing it as a newspaper article, complete with eyewitness accounts, historical facts, and a chilling warning to readers!

Checklist of Benefits: ✅ Fun, spooky, and high-engagement content
✅ 3-day interdisciplinary lesson plan
✅ Perfect for creative writing and local history
✅ CCSS-aligned
✅ Collaborative and student-centered activities
✅ Ready-to-use worksheets and templates
✅ Ideal for grades 6-8

Don’t let this resource disappear into the shadows! Grab your urban legend writing kit today and bring a mysterious and fun writing experience to your classroom!

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Wampanoag people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Ideal for Indigenous People's Day!

Key Features:

Land: Explore where the Wampanoag people lived, including their territories and landscapes.

Homes: Learn about the wetu built by the Wampanoag, showcasing their ingenuity and community living.

Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Wampanoag people.

Children: Gain insights into the lives of Wampanoag children, including their roles within the tribe and daily activities.

Influential Wampanoag – Massasoit: Delve into the life and achievements of Massasoit, a prominent leader who played a key role in the early history of the Wampanoag and their interactions with European settlers.

Two Differentiated Levels:

Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Wampanoag culture.

Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Wampanoag heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Wampanoag history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet.

Engage your middle school students with this spooky Halloween Urban Legend Bundle, perfect for Grades 6-8! This comprehensive resource includes informational text on popular urban legends, interactive slides, and a fun, challenging quiz to boost reading comprehension. Whether you're looking for Halloween literacy activities or thrilling lessons to excite your students, this bundle delivers. Perfect for building critical thinking skills, analyzing scary stories, and creating a memorable classroom experience with a Halloween twist.

1. Jersey Devil Urban Legend Resource

Uncover the chilling mystery of the Jersey Devil in this engaging resource! Students will explore the legend of this winged creature, diving into its history and sightings in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The resource includes an informational text, comprehension questions, and creative writing prompts to help students analyze and craft their own spine-tingling stories.

2. Rougarou Urban Legend Resource

Journey into the swamps of Louisiana with the legend of the Rougarou, a fearsome werewolf-like creature! This resource provides an informative article about Cajun folklore, a 10-question quiz to assess comprehension, and creative activities to get students writing their own eerie tales of the Rougarou. Perfect for building writing skills through myth and legend.

3. Bell Witch Urban Legend Resource

Enter the haunted world of the Bell Witch, one of America's most famous ghost stories! Students will learn about the haunting of the Bell family in early 19th-century Tennessee. The resource includes a detailed article, STAAR-aligned quiz, and a writing prompt where students can craft their own ghostly urban legend based on this timeless tale.

4. Goatman Urban Legend Resource

Introduce your students to the spine-chilling legend of the Goatman, the axe-wielding creature from Maryland! This resource includes an informational text that dives into the origins of this urban legend, followed by critical thinking and comprehension activities. Students will develop their own spooky stories based on this fearsome figure, complete with an engaging quiz.

5. Create Your Own Urban Legend Resource

Empower your students to become urban legend creators with this exciting, interdisciplinary writing activity! Students will choose a local landmark, develop a mysterious creature or event, and write their legend as a two-page newspaper article. The resource includes brainstorming worksheets, character development guides, and newspaper templates, plus a 3-day lesson plan to guide them through the creative process.

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Mojave people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Perfect for Indigenous People's Day!

Key Features:

Land: Explore where the Mojave people lived.

Homes: Learn about the types of homes built by the Mojave people, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to different environments.

Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Mojave people.

Children: Gain insights into the lives of Mojave children, including their roles within the tribe.

Influential Mojave – Chief Irbata: Delve into the significance of his contributions

Two Differentiated Levels:

Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Mojave culture.

Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Mojave heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Mojave history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet. Order now and enrich your curriculum with this essential educational tool!

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Miwok people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Ideal for Indigenous People's Day!

Key Features:
Land: Explore where the Miwok people lived, including their location and landscapes.
Homes: Learn about the traditional homes built by the Miwok, such as tule huts, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to their environment.
Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Miwok people, designed for survival in various climates.
Children: Gain insights into the lives of Miwok children, including their roles within the tribe and daily activities.
Influential Miwok – Maria Copa: Delve into the life and achievements of Maria Copa, a notable Miwok leader and advocate for Miwok rights.

Two Differentiated Levels:
Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Miwok culture.
Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?
Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.
Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Miwok heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation. Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Miwok history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet.

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Malala Yousafazi as a Female Changemaker and a Human Rights Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Women's History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Malala Yousafazi as a Female Changemaker and a Human Rights Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Women's History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Want an engaging way to teach about women that changed the world?

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Rosa Parks as a Black Changemaker and a Female Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Women's History Month or Black History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Frida Kahlo as a Latina Changemaker and a Female Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Hispanic Heritage Month and Women's History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Roberto Clemente a as a Black Changemaker and a Latino Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Dolores Huerta as a Female Changemaker and a Latina Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Hispanic Heritage Month and Women's History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Want an engaging way to teach about women that changed the world?

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Rosa Parks as a Black Changemaker and a Female Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Women's History Month or Black History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Hupa (Hoopa) people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Perfect for Indigenous People's Day! Need a report template? Look for our research booklet in the bundle.

Key Features:

Land: Explore where the Hupa (Hoopa) people lived.

Homes: Learn about the types of homes built by the Hupa (Hoopa) people, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to different environments.

Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Hupa (Hoopa) people.

Children: Gain insights into the lives of Hupa (Hoopa) children, including their roles within the tribe.

Influential Hupa Leader: Delve into the lives and achievements of notable Hupa (Hoopa) individuals who have made significant contributions to their community and history.

Two Differentiated Levels:

Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Hupa (Hoopa) culture.

Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Hupa (Hoopa) heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Hupa (Hoopa) history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet. Order now and enrich your curriculum with this essential educational tool!

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of the Hopi people with our comprehensive two-page nonfiction reading passage. This resource provides in-depth insights into various aspects of Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Ideal for Indigenous People's Day!

Key Features:

Land: Explore where the Hopi people lived, including their location and landscapes.

Homes: Learn about the pueblos and other shelters built by the Hopi, showcasing their ingenuity and adaptation to the desert environment.

Clothing: Discover the unique clothing styles and materials used by the Hopi people, designed for their climate and cultural traditions.

Children: Gain insights into the lives of Hopi children, including their roles within the tribe and daily activities.

Influential Hopi – Lewis Teniwana: Delve into the life and achievements of Lewis Teniwana, a notable Hopi leader and advocate for Hopi rights.

Two Differentiated Levels:

Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of Hopi culture.

Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

Why Choose This Product?

Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.

Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of Hopi heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of Hopi history and culture with our expertly crafted information packet.

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Ellen Ochoa as a Female Changemaker and a Latina Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Hispanic Heritage Month and Women's History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

This is a nonfiction biographical reading passage about Roberto Clemente a as a Black Changemaker and a Latino Leader. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or for Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month.

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)