8th Grade Short Stories Resources (by rating)

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Murder Mystery Inference Activity: Lamb to the Slaughter Mini Unit

By TooBookedUp

Engage your middle school students with a thrilling 5-day detective unit centered around Roald Dahl's gripping short story, "Lamb to the Slaughter." This comprehensive unit combines critical thinking, inferencing, and multimedia analysis, making it perfect for ELA classrooms. Students will step into the shoes of detectives, analyze texts, watch film adaptations, and compare their experiences, all while meeting key CCSS standards.

What’s Included:

  • Detailed Lesson Plans: Each day is thoughtfully planned to guide students through reading, analyzing, writing, and discussing "Lamb to the Slaughter."
  • Graphic Organizers: Scaffolded organizers for each day to help students track evidence, make inferences, and compare the text with the film.
  • Texts and Multimedia: The original short story and a link to the film adaptation, complete with an introduction by Roald Dahl.
  • Writing Prompts: Engaging prompts to encourage students to write opinion essays and reflections.
  • Class Discussion Guides: Questions and prompts to facilitate meaningful classroom discussions.

Day-by-Day Breakdown:

Day 1: Introduction to the Detective Activity

  • Students are introduced to the murder mystery and work in groups to analyze witness statements and evidence photos.
  • Focus on inference and deduction skills.

Day 2: Writing an Opinion Essay

  • Students write an opinion essay based on their detective work from Day 1.
  • Emphasis on textual evidence and structured writing.

Day 3: Reading "Lamb to the Slaughter"

  • Students read the short story in chunked sections, making inferences and annotating the text.
  • Use of scaffolding techniques to support all learners.

Day 4: Comparing Text and Film

  • Students watch the film adaptation of "Lamb to the Slaughter."
  • They use a graphic organizer to compare and contrast the text and film, analyzing differences in storytelling techniques.

Day 5: Final Analysis and Discussion

  • Students discuss their findings and the differences between the text and film.
  • Wrap-up activities include reflective writing and sharing insights.

CCSS Alignment:

This unit aligns with CCSS standards for grades 5-8, focusing on quoting accurately from texts, citing textual evidence, and analyzing multimedia elements. Standards covered include:

  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.1
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.1
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.7.1
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.8.1
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.7
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.7
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.7.7
  • CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.8.7

Benefits:

  • Engaging and Interactive: Students love the hands-on detective work and multimedia elements.
  • Skill-Building: Focus on inferencing, textual evidence, and critical thinking skills.
  • Comprehensive and Ready-to-Use: All materials and instructions are included for a seamless implementation.

Bring excitement and depth to your ELA classroom with this 5-day detective unit on "Lamb to the Slaughter." Your students will love stepping into the role of detectives while honing their reading and analytical skills.

Literature
Short Stories
Writing
$5.00
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The School Play by Gary Soto - Text Analysis Writing Prompt, Text Based Evidence

By Write On with Jamie

Introducing how to write a literary analysis essay citing text evidence for "The School Play" by Gary Soto has never been easier! This in-depth text dependent analysis (TDA) writing prompt resource guides students through a step-by-step process of writing an expository / informative essay with textual evidence as support. It includes an expository writing graphic organizer, rubric, expository writing quiz, and an expository writing template.

All aspects of text evidence writing are covered in this resource: brainstorming ideas, developing a thesis statement, introducing supporting details, writing hooks and leads, and incorporating the 6 Traits of Writing™. From the struggling writer to the advanced writer, this resource offers something for everyone.

The video, slide show, graphic organizer, worksheets, writing template, and rubric allow students to practice and develop their informative writing skills. The writing quiz reinforces guided note-taking techniques when used in conjunction with the instructional video. The detailed lesson plans make implementing expository writing easy for teachers.

This no-prep lesson is adaptable for in-class instruction, distance learning, or independent student work. The instructional video with writing tutorial and template can be presented as whole class instruction or assigned for students to complete at home.

All materials are available in both Google Drive™ and print formats, ensuring easy access for all students.

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This Citing Text Evidence Expository / Informative writing prompt lesson includes:

Entertaining Instructional Video with:

  • Brainstorming ideas
  • Prompt identification and comprehension
  • Thesis statement development
  • Rubric explanation
  • How to Write an Expository Essay tutorial and writing template
  • How to Write an Expository Essay writing quiz / guided note-taking

Detailed Lesson Plan with:

  • Common Core State Standards indicated on lesson plan
  • Instructional Focus
  • Instructional Procedures
  • Objectives/Goals
  • Direct Instruction
  • Guided Practice
  • Enrichment
  • Differentiation
  • ESE Strategies
  • ELL Strategies
  • I Can Statement
  • Essential Question

Worksheets with:

  • Prompt
  • Brainstorming section
  • Thesis statement development
  • How to Write an Expository Essay tutorial and writing template

Slide Show Presentation with:

  • Introduction slide with prompt (interactive for students to identify key vocabulary)
  • Brainstorming slide (interactive for students to list ideas)
  • Standard and implied thesis development slides
  • How to Write an Expository Essay tutorial and writing template slides
  • Checklist slide

Expository Writing Quiz

Expository Rubric

Expository Graphic Organizer

Google Slides

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Check out my other Middle School Text Based Analysis Writing Prompts:

  • Text Analysis Writing Prompts

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Connect with me for the latest Write On! with Jamie news:

  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • Write On! with Jamie Blog
  • FB Community for 6-12 ELA Teachers

. . . and visit my WRITE ON! with Jamie website for a free TEXT EVIDENCE WRITING LESSON! 

Write On!

Jamie

© Google Inc.™ All rights reserved. Google™ and the Google Logo are registered trademarks of Google Inc.™ Write On! with Jamie® is an independent company and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Google Inc.™

Terms of Use

Copyright © Write On! with Jamie. All rights reserved by author. All components of this product are to be used by the original downloader only. Copying for more than one teacher, classroom, department, school, or school system is prohibited unless additional licenses are purchased. This product may not be distributed or displayed digitally for public view. Failure to comply is a copyright infringement and a violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Clipart and elements found in this product are copyrighted and cannot be extracted and used outside of this file without permission or license. Intended for classroom and personal use ONLY.

Short Stories
Writing-Essays
Writing-Expository
$3.89
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"Hills Like White Elephants" Lesson Plan | Discussion Questions, Reading Quiz, Answer Key, & More | Earnest Hemingway

By Rigorous Resources for High School English

This 20-page EDITABLE unit has everything you'll need for profoundly stimulating lessons on Ernest Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants." Invite your class to engage in student-driven discussions without compromising on intellectual rigor. The pre-reading handout, reading quiz, and discussion questions will challenge your students to dig beneath the surface of the text and generate profound interpretive insights!!

Hold your students accountable for completing the homework by beginning class with a quick reading quiz. Then facilitate a dynamic discussion that motivates students to become attached to the thrill generating shared knowledge. Challenge students to explicate textual details using a wide range of interpretive lenses: formalist, psychoanalytic, cultural studies, etc.

Here are some highlights from this 20-page unit:

Pre-Reading Handout: Hemingway's Prose Style: Hemingway was the writer who invented the prose style that we now refer to as "literary minimalism." This handout gives an account of Hemingway's "theory of omission" as well as the specific techniques that he used to make his stories resonate with meanings hidden just beneath the surface. This handout also explains why Hemingway's stories are so great for cultivating skills in close reading. (1 page)

Reading Quiz: The reading quiz contains 10 questions focused on important details from the plot of "Hills Like White Elephants." Grading this quiz is simple and quick. Answer key included. (2 pages)

Discussion Question Handout: One double-sided handout featuring 12 discussion questions on Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants." The discussion questions are the divided into 5 sections, each of which focuses on a different literary element or theme: characterization, setting, symbolism, etc. As with all of my resources, the discussion questions are the beating heart of this lesson plan. Every question is grounded in concrete textual details and challenges students to arrive at lucid interpretive insights! (2 pages)

Discussion Question Answer Key: This unit features a detailed answer key that's informed by the best scholarly essays on "Hills Like White Elephants." But please note that there is rarely a single "correct" answer for any question. Rather, the discussions questions are designed to foster lively exchanges and interpretive debates among students. They challenge students to build interpretive arguments that require the support of carefully selected textual evidence! (6 pages)

Quick Write: Challenge students to take their interpretations one step further by writing an analytical paragraph on Hemingway's wonderfully complex story. Let students choose one of the discussion questions and build out paragraph-length interpretation. (1 page)

My store is called “Rigorous Resources” because all of the units feature rigorous, content-rich lessons guaranteed to boost your students' close-reading and critical-thinking skills. What distinguishes this unit is how the discussion questions and writing assignment are designed to help student arrive at an abundance of interpretive insights!!

These lesson plans are packaged in a single 20-page EDITABLE Word document which you can CUSTOMIZE to suit your teaching style and/or your students' skill levels. Because I believe that teachers on TeachShare should be able to see what they're buying before they make a purchase, the preview for this resource provides access to 7 actual pages from the lesson. Click on the green “preview” button to see exactly what you’ll get....

Thank you for choosing “Rigorous Resources”!!

Happy teaching!

Adam Jernigan, Ph.D.

adamjernigan@gmail.com

P.S. Don't forget to click “follow” for email updates on new products by Rigorous Resources. New products will be 50% OFF for the first 24 hours!

Rigorous Resources is your one-stop shop for resources on American literature. Every unit was designed by a Ph.D. in English with a research specialization in American literature. Feel free to check out these complete units on canonical texts by diverse American authors:

Complete Unit on Tommy Orange's There There

Complete Unit on Arthur Miller's The Crucible

Complete Unit on Frederick Douglass's Narrative

Complete Unit on F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby

Complete Unit on Nella Larsen's Passing

Complete Unit on Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God

Complete Unit on J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye

Complete Unit on Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun

Complete Unit on Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye

English Language Arts
Literature
Short Stories
$9.99
$3.00
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BUNDLE: There Will Come Soft Rains by Ray Bradbury quiz, analysis activity, poem

By The Red-Haired Reader

This bundle includes the 3 resources I use to teach Ray Bradbury's iconic short story, "There Will Come Soft Rains". There is a comprehension quiz (answers included), a poetry foldable for the Sara Teasdale poem that appears in the text, and a Tabletop Twitter Silent Discussion Activity for analyzing the text. Please check out each item individually, and let me know if you have any questions!

$7.04
$6.05
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"The Friendship Rescue" - 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."

Engage your students with "The Friendship Rescue," a compelling story that explores the themes of friendship, peer pressure, and personal growth. This comprehensive Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) unit is designed for students in grades 5-8 and aligns with both Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and National Health Education Standards (NHES).

The unit includes:

  • The complete story, "The Friendship Rescue" (2000 words)
  • Ten thoughtful assignments that explore character education, emotions, dealing with issues, and knowing when enough is enough
  • A 20-word vocabulary list tailored to grades 6-9, including definitions and parts of speech
  • Alignment with CCSS ELA standards for reading, writing, and speaking & listening
  • Alignment with NHES standards for health promotion, analyzing influences, interpersonal communication, decision-making, and practicing health-enhancing behaviors

Through engaging with this unit, your students will:

  • Analyze the story's themes and characters, citing textual evidence to support their ideas
  • Write reflective essays, narratives, and arguments related to the story's themes
  • Engage in collaborative discussions and role-playing activities to explore SEL concepts
  • Develop a deeper understanding of loyalty, empathy, courage, and resilience
  • Learn strategies for dealing with peer pressure and making healthy decisions
  • Expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills

The assignments in this unit are designed to be flexible and adaptable to your classroom's needs. They can be used for whole-class instruction, small-group work, or individual student reflection. The variety of activities, including writing tasks, role-playing, creating posters and brochures, and class discussions, will keep your students engaged and motivated.

Short Stories
Character Education
Social Emotional Learning
$3.95
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A Bundle of Five Christmas Play Scripts

By Creative Primary Literacy

Five Christmas play scripts for just $18, each is usually priced at $5.50.

Firstly, a funny Christmas play that revolves around Holly the Elf. After being accidentally taken to the North Pole one Christmas Eve, she stayed until adulthood and grew up thinking she was an elf herself. One day she found out she was a human, and decided to go and visit her biological father. On arrival she wasn’t welcomed by her father but soon the family grew to like Holly, and she also found a boyfriend. But then everything changed when she fell out with her father and she decided to leave. However, as she was walking alone, she heard a crash; when she went to investigate, she noticed it was her good friend, Santa. Her family catch up with her and together they all manage to lift Christmas spirit and power Santa’s sleigh.

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

Secondly, we have a funny Christmas play that revolves around the town of Bootown, where all the Boos love Christmas. In fact they love Christmas so much it is all they talk about! However, a mysterious outcast lives to the North of the town; this outcast hates Christmas and anything to do with the festive time of year. This outcast is called the Grouch! The play follows the story of Mary-Boo and her family as they open up to the Grouch, and try to show him what Christmas is all about. However, the Grouch has his own plans to ruin Christmas for the town, and steals all the presents on Christmas eve. He has a change of heart however when he hears the town enjoying Christmas even though he had stolen all of the presents. His heart grows and he quickly returns the gifts and takes part in all the festivities.

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

Thirdly, we have a play script for A Christmas Carol, however it is a modern remake that is based in a school - with the head teacher being Ebenezer Scrooge - you can change the names of the characters to teachers in your school, or to rhyme with teachers in your school as I did (if they have a sense of humour)! There are song recommendations throughout the script, with a mixture of traditional Christmas songs and modern songs. There are 20-22 speaking parts, with additional non-speaking roles too.

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

Then, we have a funny play called Santa's Successor. The script follows the story line of a man who accidentally disrupts Santa's deliveries and has to take over his route before finding his way to Santa's work shop. He then slowly starts turning into Santa, which everybody else finds hard to believe! There are song recommendations throughout the script, with a mixture of traditional Christmas songs and modern songs. There are 20-22 speaking parts, with additional non-speaking roles too. The play is around 40-50 minutes long.

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

And finally a play script for A Christmas Carol; it is a traditional version that follows Ebenezer Scrooge's hauntings through the night of Christmas Eve. There are song recommendations throughout the script and roles for 20-22 speaking parts.

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

Links to the individual play scripts are below:

  • Holly the Christmas Elf
  • Santa's Successor
  • A Christmas Carol (A School Remix)
  • A Christmas Carol (Traditional Version)
  • The Grouch

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For more great resources follow my store ⇉⇉ CLICK HERE

Also, don't forget to leave feedback to earn TeachShare credits to spend!

$24.75
$18.00
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Ray Bradbury "The Green Morning" worksheets

By Peter D

This is a 29-page set of worksheets for the short story "The Green Morning" by Ray Bradbury. 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

* suspense

* symbolism

* quotations

* 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

Literature
Reading
Short Stories
$3.00
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AP SPANISH LANGUAGE BUNDLE

By ARIANA PEREZ

AP SPANISH LANGUAGE BUNDLE

This bundle includes many activities, project, reading opportunities, workbooks

to help students practice and feel comfortable with reading and writing in Spanish.

Save more than 35% off by purchasing this BUNDLE!

$146.50
$103.60
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Reading Comprehension BUNDLE |Pop Culture Articles | Figurative Language Passage

By Perfectly Planned Designs

Looking for fun middle school ELA reading comprehension activities for the first days or week back to school? These will become you go-to sub plans for anytime you need it! Keep early and fast finishers busy after state testing and even at the end of the year with these 2 fun no-prep bundles. Get them now for over 20% off!

These are game-changers in my classroom! Students know to grab their packets and work on them if they finish their work early or if I have to leave the room for a meeting. They're amazing for some quiet work after testing as well! Don't miss out on this lifesaver resource that will make your new school year a breeze! Grab it now and watch your students thrive while you boost your classroom productivity.


1. Figurative Language Short Passage Bundle

This includes four passages with 3 close reading and writing worksheets each - for a total of 12 high-quality worksheets! Answer Keys Included!

Figurative Language Short Passage Sets are a no-prep, printable close reading activity that's perfect for middle school and high school. Each passage has between 206-226 words and is filled with between 14-19 examples of figurative language, such as hyperbole, metaphor, simile, and personification. I’ve found that although my students can tell me the definition of these terms, simile is the only one they can truly pick out in a text. As a result, their writing is filled with overused similes that need work! These figurative language passage sets are rigorous, use higher-level words and phrases, and in addition to merely identifying the different types, students will be asked to discuss the impact it has on the reader, as they’re asked to do on standardized testing.

Simply print and go! There is truly no preparation needed, which is why this set is perfect to leave for sub plans, bell ringers, homework, test prep, review or assessment!

Activity:
Students can complete all three worksheets in each set as part of a packet, but I suggest using one each day. If you teach allusion, alliteration, idiom, or onomatopoeia, you can ask students to include those in Task 2 where they will be asked to continue the passage using a similar writing style. I have left some blanks on the checklist for this very purpose.

Reflection:
The class can review the answers and comments as a whole group when the activity is complete. You’ll be surprised how much better they’ll get at figurative language after being exposed to some high-quality examples!

WHAT'S INCLUDED...

**
12 Printable Worksheets**

Each set includes...

► Task 1: Read and Highlight a Figurative Language Passage

► Task 2: Write a Similar Figurative Language Passage Using a Checklist

► Task 3: Figurative Language Analysis Graphic Organizer

► Answer Keys


2. Pop Culture Mega BUNDLE

This fun bundle features 8 sets of activities: a total of 48 printable worksheets! Packed with engaging activities, these ready-to-use sets are ready for your sub tub, and designed to ease the burden of substitute teacher planning while keeping students engaged and motivated. Use them any time you don't feel like lesson planning!

WHAT'S INCLUDED…

6-Page Article & Activity Sets - Includes 8 Sets!

Each set includes...

► 1-page pop culture article

► Reading Comprehension - 7 multiple choice questions

► Critical Thinking - 5 short answer questions

► Crossword Puzzle

► Design Page

► Impossible MAZE

HIGH-INTEREST TOPICS FOR TEENS...

⭐️ Crocs

⭐️ Netflix

⭐️ Takis

⭐️ Fortnite

⭐️ MrBeast

⭐️ Air Jordans

⭐️ TikTok

⭐️ OpenAI

This Pop Culture Bundle for Middle School will make your students WANT to work and stay on task as they read about high-interest trending topics among teens.

You'll get stand-alone resources that are designed to offer a print-and-go sub-plan solution for ELA teachers who don't have time to prep their lessons. These lesson sets will definitely engage even the most reluctant readers, while challenging your more advanced ones.

Students read an original pop culture article and you get lessons that include both reading comprehension and writing. Two fun puzzles are also included, as well as a design page that allows students to get creative and offers differentiation. There's a little bit of everything!

The estimated Lexile measure of these sets range from 900 to 1100.

► I made these creative activities because I needed fun independent work that I could use in my classroom that I knew students would actually LIKE doing!

► Simply print and go! These packets can be used in a multitude of ways! Keep them on hand to use later!

►There is truly no preparation needed, which is why these sets are perfect to leave for:

  • fun lessons
  • early finishers
  • after testing
  • group work
  • sub plans
  • bell ringers
  • homework
  • test prep
  • review
  • assessment

HOW TO USE THESE SETS...

Students can complete all six worksheets of each set as part of a sub packet, but if you don't see them for a full block then assign only one page each day you're out (you'll get even more bang for your buck!) This packet has so many uses beyond sub work - use it any time of year for a no-prep, yet FUN learning activity that kids will enjoy doing! All answer keys are included!


Have a question?

Please check out the Q&A section or message me and I'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Don't forget to leave me feedback! I love to hear what my buyers say, how the product worked for them, and any feedback I can use to improve my product! (It also earns you points towards future TeachShare Purchases)

**For personal and single classroom use only. If using with multiple classrooms, please purchase additional licenses at the discounted rate.**

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$55.40
$42.95
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Secret Samantha by Tim Federle Short Story Lesson

By Ms. J's ELA

This resource should accompany the short story Secret Samantha by Tim Federle. This story can be found in the book Flying Lessons and Other Stories.

This resource includes five student worksheets in color and in b/w for printing. There is also a presentation to accompany the worksheets. The presentation and worksheets include a pre-reading journal entry, vocabulary from the story, tiered reading questions, and post-reading questions focused on a standard about determining the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text.

English Language Arts
Reading
Short Stories
$2.00
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Christmas Short Story and Reading Comprehension Questions for Middle School ELA

By Teach Savvy Store

Immerse your students in the magic of the holidays with this engaging ELA resource, centered on the heartwarming short story The Key to Christmas Hollow. This resource combines reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and creative thinking activities, making it perfect for the festive season.

What’s Included:

The Short Story:

A captivating tale about Liam, a "quiet dreamer" who discovers the true spirit of Christmas in a magical town called Christmas Hollow.

Vocabulary Awareness Activity:

A pre-reading vocabulary chart featuring key terms such as "intricately," "palpable," and "astonishment." Students record their familiarity with each word, look up definitions, and rephrase them in their own words.

Comprehension Questions (with Answer Key):

Questions designed to develop critical thinking, including:

  • Setting and Atmosphere
  • Character Motivation and Analysis
  • Inference and Theme Exploration
  • Symbolism and Cause & Effect
  • Creative Thinking Prompts

Answer Key for Teachers:
Detailed responses to all comprehension questions, aiding in efficient grading and discussion facilitation.

Learning Objectives:

  • Develop vocabulary and reading fluency.
  • Analyze characters, themes, and literary elements.
  • Encourage creative writing and personal reflection.

Usage:

  • Perfect for whole-class reading, independent assignments, or as a holiday-themed ELA activity.
  • Designed for upper elementary to middle school students.
  • Printable and ready to use!
Reading
Short Stories
Christmas/ Chanukah/ Kwanzaa
$2.00
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The Most Dangerous Game Silent Conversation Quote Pass Activity

By Language Arts Excellence

Sometimes the best classroom discussions arise when students say nothing at all!

This product features a thoughtful and engaging activity for use during your study of Richard Connell's thrilling tale of the hunter becoming the hunted, The Most Dangerous Game. Centering around 5 thoughtful passages from the story, this lesson provides your students with a chance to think, reflect, and respond to their peers without ever saying a word. This creative approach is a great way to differentiate instruction among your students and allows even your most quiet students to shine. This no-prep lesson will become a must-do activity within your study of The Most Dangerous Game!

Product Includes:

  • Detailed lesson plan
  • 5 "Silent Conversation" worksheets with 5 different quotes from the story
  • 1 blank editable worksheet to create your own
  • 1 student example

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Also, check out these great resources to complement your unit on The LMost Dangerous Game by Language Arts Excellence:

⭐ The Most Dangerous Game Escape Room

⭐ The Most Dangerous Game Socratic Seminar

⭐ The Most Dangerous Game Reader's Theater Script

⭐The Most Dangerous Game Gallery Walk

___________________________________________________________________

Click to Follow Language Arts Excellence

English Language Arts
Literature
Short Stories
$3.25
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LIAM O'FLAHERTY'S THE SNIPER [TEXT]

By Richard B Williams

This Liam O'Flaherty's "The Sniper" TEXT allows students to look at themselves, war. and their life's journeys. This prose encourages insightful responses. 10th - 12th Graders will love this short work and product. Check it out!

SUMMARY:

O'Flaherty's "The Sniper" identifies a young sniper in Dublin, Ireland during the Irish Civil War, who navigates a rooftop overlooking a city street. He contemplates his position in this war, then shoots an enemy with dire consequences. What can we learn from war? Does it have a toll on us?

This 10th - 12th grade canonized work allows students to look at themselves, their life's journey, war, and our society.

This Product Includes:

1. Short Narrative Prose

(a) Text Version

(b) Audio and Animated Versions

You may also appreciate:

THE SNIPER [LESSON ACTIVITIES]

THE SNIPER [TASK CARDS]

A WORN PATH [LESSON ACTIVITIES]

A WORN PATH [TASK CARDS]

SPACE [LESSON ACTIVITIES]

A GOOD MAN IS HARD TO FIND [LESSON ACTIVITIES]

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Hey guys,

I'm Richard Williams, The Angry Teacher. I've been teaching for 18+ 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 short story materials and resources in my store.

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Thanks for stopping by!

English Language Arts
Literature
Short Stories
$3.00
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❤️ Blank Plot Diagram Template Graphic Organizer Printable Worksheet Story Map

By Epsilon Math Craft & Special Education

Your elementary / middle / high school students will be able to complete ELA activities with engagement and no confusion, and they will use this template to help answer text-dependent writing questions or when writing notes. This Plot Diagram Graphic Organizer includes the following: exposition, conflict, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.


Please see the preview as it is exactly what you will receive in your download.


Don't forget that leaving feedback earns you points toward FREE TeachShare purchases.


All the resources I make are free for the first 24 hours! so follow my store <3 to stay updated every time I post.


keywords:(not necessarily related to the topic)

  • plot diagram
  • plot diagram template
  • plot diagram with short story
  • plot diagram worksheet
  • plot diagram notes
English Language Arts
Literature
Short Stories
$2.99
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When I Lay My Burden Down - Text Analysis Writing Prompt, Text Based Evidence

By Write On with Jamie

Introducing how to write a literary analysis essay citing text evidence for "When I Lay My Burden Down" by Maya Angelou has never been easier! This in-depth text dependent analysis (TDA) writing prompt resource guides students through a step-by-step process of writing an opinion essay with textual evidence as support. It includes an argumentative writing graphic organizer, rubric, argumentative writing quiz, and an argumentative writing template.

All aspects of text evidence writing are covered in this resource: brainstorming ideas, developing a thesis statement, introducing supporting details, writing hooks and leads, and incorporating the 6 Traits of Writing™. From the struggling writer to the advanced writer, this resource offers something for everyone.

The video, slide show, graphic organizer, worksheets, writing template, and rubric allow students to practice and develop their argumentative writing skills. The writing quiz reinforces guided note-taking techniques when used in conjunction with the instructional video. The detailed lesson plans make implementing argument writing easy for teachers.

This no-prep lesson is adaptable for in-class instruction, distance learning, or independent student work. The instructional video with writing tutorial and template can be presented as whole class instruction or assigned for students to complete at home.

All materials are available in both Google Drive™ and print formats, ensuring easy access for all students.

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This Citing Text Evidence Argumentative / Argument writing prompt lesson includes:

Entertaining Instructional Video with:

  • Brainstorming ideas
  • Prompt identification and comprehension
  • Thesis statement development
  • Rubric explanation
  • How to Write an Argumentative Essay tutorial and writing template
  • How to Write an Argumentative Essay writing quiz / guided note-taking

Detailed Lesson Plan with:

  • Common Core State Standards indicated on lesson plan
  • Instructional Focus
  • Instructional Procedures
  • Objectives/Goals
  • Direct Instruction
  • Guided Practice
  • Enrichment
  • Differentiation
  • ESE Strategies
  • ELL Strategies
  • I Can Statement
  • Essential Question

Worksheets with:

  • Prompt
  • Brainstorming section
  • Thesis statement development
  • How to Write an Argumentative Essay tutorial and writing template

PowerPoint Presentation with:

  • Introduction slide with prompt (interactive for students to identify key vocabulary)
  • Brainstorming slide (interactive for students to list ideas)
  • Standard and implied thesis development slides
  • How to Write an Argumentative Essay tutorial and writing template slides
  • Checklist slide

Argumentative Writing Quiz

Argumentative Rubric

Argumentative Graphic Organizer

Google Slides

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Check out my other Middle School Citing Text Evidence Writing Prompts:

  • Citing Text Evidence Writing Prompts

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Connect with me for the latest Write On! with Jamie news:

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  • FB Community for 6-12 ELA Teachers

. . . and visit my WRITE ON! with Jamie website for a free TEXT EVIDENCE WRITING LESSON! 

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Jamie

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Terms of Use

Copyright © Write On! with Jamie. All rights reserved by author. All components of this product are to be used by the original downloader only. Copying for more than one teacher, classroom, department, school, or school system is prohibited unless additional licenses are purchased. This product may not be distributed or displayed digitally for public view. Failure to comply is a copyright infringement and a violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Clipart and elements found in this product are copyrighted and cannot be extracted and used outside of this file without permission or license. Intended for classroom and personal use ONLY.

Literature
Short Stories
Writing-Essays
$3.89
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A Sound of Thunder Escape Room Preview/ Sample/ Freebie! Diction + Syntax

By The Red-Haired Reader

This is a sample station from my A Sound of Thunder Escape Room! The Escape Room includes 7 stations; this is the one that analyzes Bradbury's use of diction and syntax. Hopefully it will give you a taste of what the whole product is like! Please check it out in a separate listing.

English Language Arts
Literature
Short Stories
Free
Product
Product
Product
Product

Young Voices: Eight Short Stories of Courage & Resilience 5-8

By Mark Holmes

Young Voices: Stories of Courage & Resilience in Conflict & Adversity

64 pages

Grade 5 to 8

All stories also available individually

Discover the resilience and hope of youth with our collection of eight short stories for grades 5 to 8, each set against the backdrop of global conflict and adversity. These narratives, ranging from a diary in the ruins of Gaza to unexpected friendships in Kashmir, offer a window into the impact of war on young lives. They capture the essence of innocence and the unyielding human spirit, providing a poignant exploration of loss, tradition, and the strength found in family and friendship bonds amidst turmoil.

Our carefully curated anthology spans from the streets of Sarajevo to the tense borders of East Ukraine and beyond, bringing to light the often-overlooked experiences of children in war-torn environments. These authentic tales not only confront the harsh realities of violence but also weave threads of hope, suggesting paths toward healing and peace. This collection is a profound reminder of our shared humanity and the vital importance of nurturing and listening to the world's youth, who carry the promise of a brighter, more united future.

Each story comes with a set of probing and thought-provoking questions.

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Stories

Iqbal & Yasmin: A Kashmiri Story

● A Kashmiri boy starts a cricket league to bring together youth from opposing

sides and provide hope in the midst of conflict.

Mykhala & Daniela: Slava Ukraini

● Two girls driven from their homes in Ukraine find friendship and purpose in

creating a bird sanctuary, becoming symbols of resilience and peace.

Kiribati: Rising Tides, Resilient Hearts

● Two girls from the island nation of Kiribati find strength in their bond as their

community is forced to leave their sinking homeland.

Irene’s Steps: A Story from the Troubles in Northern Ireland

● An unlikely friendship between a Catholic girl and a Protestant boy in Northern

Ireland during the Troubles helps bridge divides through their school project

sharing personal stories.

Beyond the Horizon: A Mexican Tale

● Four friends from Mexico undertake the perilous journey across the border,

driven by hopes for a better future.

Echoes of Hope: The Children of Sarajevo

● Children create an oasis of hope and resistance through education and art during the Siege of Sarajevo.

Gaza Diary: Shadows of Hope

● A young girl in Gaza chronicles her family's daily struggles for survival and

glimpses of hope amidst the cycles of war devastating her community.

The Day the World Changed: 9/11

● Two NYC teenagers find purpose helping their community cope with the

aftermath of 9/11, gaining resilience amidst tragedy.

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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.

Short Stories
Civics
World History
$8.95
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A Christmas Carol - A School Remix Play Script FREE PREVIEW

By Creative Primary Literacy

This is a free preview of the Christmas play script - A Christmas Carol - A School Remix Play Script. The full play script is available for just $5.50 by following the link below:

https://www.TeachShare.com/Product/A-Christmas-Carol-A-School-Remix-Play-Script-4129710

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

This is a play script for A Christmas Carol, however it is a modern remake that is based in a school. The play script tells the story of a mean, old headmaster, Ebenezer Loops, who runs a dark and miserable school. The teachers are under-paid and over-worked, and the students are not allowed to smile or have fun.

It is Christmas eve and his best worker, Bob Bamboo asks for the day off to spend time with his family, and sick child – Petite Pat. Loops almost refuses but decides to just dock his pay for the day. Then, that evening he gets a visit from the previous headmaster – another miserable person called Mr Frown.

Mr Frown tells him he needs to change his ways or end up with the same fate as him; he tells him how he will be visited by three ghosts that night. The ghosts visit and show Loops various things that upset him enough to change his ways.

After the visits of the ghosts Loops wakes up on Christmas day a changed man and tries to put right all the wrongs he has caused over the previous decades!

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

There are song recommendations throughout the script, with a mixture of traditional Christmas songs and modern songs. There are 19 speaking parts, with additional non-speaking roles too for up to 30 students.

I hope you have fun with it, my class had a ball!

⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻⎻

There are also a few more Christmas play scripts in my store including:

  • Holly the Christmas Elf
  • Santa's Successor
  • A Christmas Carol (A School Remix)
  • A Christmas Carol (Traditional Version)
  • The Grouch

⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚⏚

For more great resources follow my store ⇉⇉ CLICK HERE

Also, don't forget to leave feedback to earn TeachShare credits to spend!

Drama
Short Stories
Christmas/ Chanukah/ Kwanzaa
Free
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Roald Dahl "Edward the Conqueror" worksheets

By Peter D

This is a 27-page set of worksheets for the short story "Edward the Conqueror" by Roald Dahl. 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

* similes

* metaphors

* theme

* motif

* point of view

* setting

* conflict

* 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

Literature
Reading
Short Stories
$3.00
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Product
Product

Cultural Aspects and AP Spanish Language Book

By ARIANA PEREZ

The Real 5 de Mayo and Other Important Cultural Aspects

Focusing heavily in Mexican history.

Las mujeres mexicanas

La historia verdadera de 5 de Mayo

mini- Investigación Cubana, dia de los muertos, posadas navideñas

Saturnino el pintor

Benito Juarez

Origen de la Musica norteña

La China Poblana story with questions

etc.

includes module (many activities) for DESAFIOS MUNDIALES-

Short Stories
World Languages
Spanish
$5.00