$5 - $10 Middle School Close Reading Resources (by price, low to high)

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!

Ready to teach literary elements and concepts combined with historical fiction and social skills? This zip packet contains: Preview file with cover image 3 Readers theater-like scripts of 3-4 pages each 1 Readers' Script Getting Started Packet Readers' Script Critical Thinking handouts: Readers' Script Information Guideline for implementing activities Subject Theme Plot line Mood Tone Character analysis Text evidence Symbolism Genres 6 Project based assignments 2 Fact based, real life connection assignments Fabulous Vocabulary Handout with graphic organizer Differentiated vocabulary list 3 Readers' Scripts Stories: Readers’ Script Overview Script 1 Title: The Great Steamboat Race Genre: Historical Fiction Four Characters: Tom, Abby, Mr. Millborn, Mrs. Millborn Setting: Banks of Mississippi River No. of Acts: 1 (3 pages) Script Overview: Tom and Abby can’t wait for the Mississippi River steamboat race! Both are surprised when Tom’s former classmate is spotted working aboard one of the ships. However, Mr. and Mrs. Millborn are shocked to learn their son’s classmate dropped out of school to work on a river boat. Can two parents persuade their son to continue his education, or will an exciting life on the Mississippi River persuade him to join his classmate? Script 2 Title: The Frozen Fiancés Genre: Historical Fiction Four Characters: Narrator, Richard, Lydia, and Captain Setting: Ship’s Deck, December 22, 1850, Rockland Harbor, Maine No. of Acts: 3 (3 pages) Script Overview: Richard and Lydia are aboard a schooner on their way to Owl’s Head Lighthouse to be married when a winter storm delays them. Can the captain safely guide the ship across the harbor, or will their lives end in Rockland Harbor? This historical fiction script is based upon a true story that resulted in Owl’s Head Lighthouse being named the most famous haunted place in America. Script 3 Title: Terror Aboard the Titanic Genre: Historical Fiction Three Characters: Jane, John, Edward Setting: 1915 local newspaper office No. of Acts: 1 (4 pages) Script Overview: Jane and John, twin sister and brother, survived a horrifying night aboard the unsinkable Titanic. Now, the twins relive the story when Edward, a local reporter, interviews them for a fantastic scoop. But, is the journalist more interested in Jane or the Titanic tale? Historical facts about the Titanic and its fateful voyage make this historical fiction script an interesting read. These 3-4 page scripts are perfect for at-risk, ESL/ELL, homeschool, flipped classrooms, and even for AP. Great for classes with short time frames and students with short attention spans! Use for close readings and critical analysis. Perfect for standardized test prep for analyzing text and meaning. Social topics and historical fiction combined for quick lessons that reinforce reading and writing skills. Great for small group settings and literacy centers.

Edition 1 contains 25 readings ranging from easy to difficult-

Includes reading comprehension questions, unique topics and counting of words per minute.

❤ Follow my Instagram (This is my most active Outlet)

Follow my Facebook

TeachShare Store

This product can not be shared, duplicated, re-distributed, sold, or given away for free– in parts or in total- in person or online. Emailing or sharing this product, or the file where you might store it, is prohibited. Sharing the link to this product in my TeachShare store for others to purchase is allowed and appreciated.

Please Leave FEEDBACK so you will earn TeachShare credits, which may be applied to your future purchases.

Thank you,

Ariana Perez-Urbina

©TheSpanglishMom

Teaching Science/Astronomy/Galaxy through Close Reading and Fine Arts using GLAD strategies.

Materials include lesson plans, activity pages, and posters with both student version and teacher’s version (with teaching scripts). Prep free! Grade 1-5.

Major components of the product:

- Student Package:

- 1 Info Organizer

- 3 Reading Passages

- 3 Text Dependent Questions Sets ( with 4 questions)

- 1 Vocabulary Sheet

-Teacher Package:

- 1 Info Organizer with answers

- 3 Reading Passages with Close Reading marks

- 3 Text Dependent Questions Sets with answers

- 1 Vocabulary Sheet with answers

- 1 Galaxies Black Line Drawing

- 1 Galaxies Black Line Drawing with labels

- 1 Galaxies Color Drawing

- 1 Galaxies Color Drawing with labels (great open house)

- 1 Vocab Poster with Post-it notes

- 1 Teacher Writing Sample

- 2 Student Writing Samples

- Lesson Plan embedded in 2 teaching scripts: 1 for Reading Passage and 1 for

Text Dependent Questions.

Save $$$s when you buy in bundles!

=====================================================

Related Lessons:

Science Word Search: Astronomy 5 in 1 Bundle

Science Word Search: Space

Science Word Search: Galaxies

======================================================

Click a link below to see my other Close Reading Lessons:

Close Reading Bundle: Science + Holidays from Gail Gibbons

Plant:

Close Reading: Plant Unit

Close Reading: Apples

Close Reading: Corn

Close Reading: From Seed to Plant

Close Reading: Tell Me, Tree

Close Reading: The Fruits We Eat

Close Reading: The Pumpkin Book

Close Reading: The Vegetables We Eat

Animals:

Close Reading: Animal Unit

Amphibian:

Close Reading: Frogs

Arachnid:

Close Reading: Spiders

Bird:

Close Reading: Owls

Close Reading: Penguins!

Fish:

Close Reading: Sharks

Insect:

Close Reading: Monarch Butterfly

Close Reading: The Honey Makers

Close Reading: Ladybugs

Mammal:

Close Reading: Bats

Close Reading: Elephants of Africa

Close Reading: Polar Bears

Close Reading: Wolves

Close Reading: Whales

Reptile:

Close Reading: Alligators and Crocodiles

Close Reading: Dinosaurs!

Close Reading: Sea Turtles

Close Reading: Snakes

Environment:

Close Reading: Environment Unit

Close Reading: Caves and Caverns

Close Reading: Coral Reefs

Close Reading: Deserts

Close Reading: Marshes & Swamps

Close Reading: Rain Forests

Close Reading: Recycle!

Weather:

Close Reading: Weather Unit

Close Reading: It's Hurricanes!

Close Reading: It's Raining!

Close Reading: It's Snowing!

Close Reading: Tornadoes!

Season:

Close Reading: The Reasons for Seasons

Astronomy:

Close Reading: Astronomy Unit

Close Reading: GALAXIES, GALAXIES!

Close Reading: Planet Earth/Inside Out

Close Reading: The Moon Book

Close Reading: THE PLANETS

Matter:

Close Reading: States of Matter

Social Studies/Holidays:

Close Reading: Holiday Unit

Close Reading: Christmas Is ...

Close Reading: Easter

Close Reading: Halloween Is ... by Gail Gibbons

Close Reading: St. Patrick's Day by Gail Gibbons

Close Reading: Thanksgiving Is ... by Gail Gibbons

Close Reading: Valentine's Day Is ... by Gail Gibbons

=====================================================

Thank you so much and I hope you enjoy this lesson.

• Check out my store https://www.TeachShare.com/store/Qiang-Ma for more lessons to help your students have fun while learning!

• Comments, suggestions, feedback and questions always welcomed!

• Each time you give feedback, TeachShare gives you feedback credits that you use to lower the cost of your future purchases. I value your feedback greatly!

• Be sure to click on the green ★ to follow me for updates and new product announcements!

=====================================================

Looking for an exciting way to teach your students about soils and weathering? This New York State Escape Room is the perfect blend of social studies content, close reading, and gamified learning! In this activity, students will explore the geography of New York State including cities, landmarks, and state/country/body of water borders through an engaging close reading article and four unique challenges.

Overview of the Activity: Students begin by reading a two-page informational passage about New York state geography, borders, cities, important landmarks within the state, etc.. The article includes essential vocabulary like state, city, lake, country, border, river and mountain, providing a solid foundation for students before they tackle the four interactive challenges.

Each challenge targets a different skill:

• Challenge 1: Matching vocabulary terms to their definitions (reinforcing social studies concepts).
• Challenge 2: True/false questions based on key facts from the reading (to build comprehension).
• Challenge 3: Multiple-choice questions (testing understanding of key concepts).
• Challenge 4: Identifying the paragraph where certain information is found (developing close reading skills).

For each correct answer, students receive a clue—a one-digit number. After completing all four challenges, students use their numbers to solve a final puzzle and “escape” the room.

**Why Use Close Reading?:**Close reading is an instructional approach that encourages students to carefully analyze and interpret a text. In this escape room, students must return to the passage multiple times to find the answers to the questions, helping them:

• Improve their reading comprehension.
• Strengthen critical thinking skills.
• Become more independent readers who can tackle complex information.

Benefits of Gamified Learning: Using an escape room format transforms a traditional lesson into an adventure! Students love the thrill of solving puzzles, working together, and completing challenges, which boosts their engagement and motivation. Here’s why gamified learning is a hit in the classroom:

• Increases engagement: Students are naturally motivated by challenges and competition, making learning more interactive and exciting.
• Enhances problem-solving skills: Escape rooms require students to use logic and critical thinking to solve clues and progress through tasks.
• Encourages teamwork: As students collaborate, they practice communication and teamwork, skills essential for success in group settings.

**Perfect for Social Studies and Literacy Integration:**This escape room seamlessly integrates social studies content with reading comprehension, making it a powerful resource for interdisciplinary learning. While students strengthen their understanding of New York State geography, they’re also developing literacy skills by interpreting information, analyzing key details, and practicing vocabulary.

Whether you’re teaching about New York states borders, geography within the state itself, or just looking for a fun, engaging way to challenge your students, this New York State Escape Room is sure to captivate their attention while reinforcing key learning objectives.

From Figurative Language to textual analysis, this 4-set, 224-item TASK CARDS resource allows students to break apart Orwell's 1984 . This resource has black/white and colored versions; numbered and unnumbered versions. Students get to delve deeply into the literature. Their readings will come to life and their comprehension will soar. These 56-question items will make your English Language Arts class the place to be!

A Grab-n-Go resource in 4 different variations that you can even tailor to your students with BLANK CARDS!

*These TASK CARDS are great for differentiation, absent student assignment, bell ringer, or class enders* [See Suggested Uses]

This Product Includes:

1. 56-numbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

2. 56-numbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

3. 56-unnumbered, colored question TASK CARDS

4. 56-unnumbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

5. 14-item Suggested Uses page

You may also appreciate:

THE MEDICINE BAG [TEXT]

MIDDLE SCHOOL READING COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS [TASK CARDS AND WORKSHEETS]

OTHELLO [UNIT DOCUMENTS & ARTICLES]

OTHELLO [UNIT QUIZZES]

MACBETH [ESSAY EXAM]

PLEASE CONSIDER FINDING ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:

TheAngryTeacherBLOG

INSTAGRAM

Youtube

Facebook

Pinterest

EMAIL LIST

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!

Product Label Comprehension is tailor-made for teachers seeking to provide real-world text practice using environmental print with text-dependent questions.

This resource is designed to expose students to everyday product labels that are often overlooked in classroom life skills. These specially crafted worksheets will help introduce and familiarize students with different kinds of common products, such as deodorant, razors, and shaving cream and identify important product information during shopping.

By closely reading these product labels, students will be challenged to answer text-dependent questions, fostering critical thinking and language skills in a practical and relatable manner.

This resource is also available as part of a bundle with a 20% savings:

Product Label Comprehension BUNDLE

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

• 12 common product labels/ packaging
• 25 worksheets per set with 138 questions
• 50 different worksheets
• 2 levels
• Color set
• Black & white set
• Teacher answer key
• Follow up ideas

Level 1: Cut & Paste - Simpler Questions

• 12 worksheets per set
• 60 questions (5 questions per page)
• Teacher answer key

Level 2: Write in the Answer - More Complex Questions

• 13 worksheets per set
• 78 questions (6 questions per page)
• Teacher answer key

TOTAL:

⭐ 25 WORKSHEETS WITH 138 QUESTIONS PER SET

⭐ 50 DIFFERENT WORKSHEETS

Unit 1 & 3:

Product Label Comprehension Unit 1

Product Label Comprehension Unit 3

Similar Resources:

Medicine Label Comprehension Unit 3

Reading Recipes Unit 1

This is a collection of ten single page science posters. Each poster includes a picture of the scientist and a short description of the scientist's contributions written appropriately for the middle school level. When hung in the classroom these posters can be viewed by the students and referred to throughout the year as different topics arise when teaching the Next Generation Science Standards. Each sheet can also be used as a close read.

The following scientists are included:

Galileo Galilei

Isaac Newton

Charles Darwin

Louis Pasteur

Marie Curie

Albert Einstein

Rachel Carson

Jane Goodall

Neil degrasse Tyson

Ellen Ochoa

❤️**Click Here to Follow Us!**

Related Products

⭐ Famous Engineer and Inventor Posters for Middle School

⭐ Famous Mathematicians Posters for Middle School

⭐ Famous People in the Area of STEM Posters for Middle School

⭐ Back to School: Common Science Misconceptions for Middle School

⭐ Types of Energy Posters for upper elementary and middle school

⭐ Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Posters for NGSS

⭐ Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Reading Passages for NGSS

⭐ Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Reading Passages for NGSS - Black and White

⭐ Renewable Energy Project

⭐ LASER Terms Handouts and Quiz

Customer Tips:

How to get TeachShare credit to use towards future purchases:

*Please go to your My Purchases page (you need to login). Next to each purchase, you’ll see a Provide Feedback button. Click that and you will be taken to a page where you can give a rating and leave a short comment about the product. Each time you give feedback, TeachShare gives you credit that you can use towards your future purchases.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with this versatile informational reading passage, research report, and collaborative art project on Lionel Messi, an Argentine soccer superstar and influential Latino. Perfect for a research project or as an engaging classroom activity.

***Reading Passages***

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

***Reading Comprehension Questions***

These questions are differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential Latino leader, making it ideal for close reading activities.
Features:

• Colored and Black-Line Versions: Available in both vibrant color and easy-to-print black-line formats.
• Reading Comprehension Questions: Tailored for early elementary (grades 1-3) and a separate worksheet for upper elementary (grades 4-6).

***Trifold***

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject: Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Lionel Messi is pre-filled in one version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations, encouraging students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

***Collaborative Mural Poster***

Have students contribute to a larger masterpiece that honors the talent and resilience of Lionel Messi. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Messi's impactful life and words.
⭐️ Pro-Tip: To make a smaller puzzle, use your printer or copier's "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one sheet!

Two Sizes Available:

• 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Includes both Color-Guide & BW versions)

Perfect for classrooms celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, this Lionel Messi Reading Passage + Research Report Template + Collaborative Mural will inspire students to learn about and appreciate the incredible contributions of this Latino changemaker.

Looking for an exciting way to teach your students about the Iroquois and Algonquian tribes? This Iroquois and Algonquian Close Reading Escape Room is the perfect blend of social studies content, close reading, and gamified learning! In this activity, students will explore the civilizations through an engaging close reading article and four unique challenges.

Overview of the Activity: Students begin by reading a two-page informational passage that explains different aspects of each of the civilizations, (who the Iroquois and Algonquian tribes are, aspects of their daily lives, how they interacted with their environment, as well as similarities and differences between their cultures.). The article includes essential vocabulary like confederacy, longhouse, wigwam, and council, providing a solid foundation for students before they tackle the four interactive challenges.

Each challenge targets a different skill:

• Challenge 1: Matching vocabulary terms to their definitions (reinforcing social studies concepts).
• Challenge 2: True/false questions based on key facts from the reading (to build comprehension).
• Challenge 3: Multiple-choice questions (testing understanding of key concepts about the various civilizations).
• Challenge 4: Identifying the paragraph where certain information is found (developing close reading skills).

For each correct answer, students receive a clue—a one-digit number. After completing all four challenges, students use their numbers to solve a final puzzle and “escape” the room.

**Why Use Close Reading?:**Close reading is an instructional approach that encourages students to carefully analyze and interpret a text. In this escape room, students must return to the passage multiple times to find the answers to the questions, helping them:

• Improve their reading comprehension.
• Strengthen critical thinking skills.
• Become more independent readers who can tackle complex information.

Benefits of Gamified Learning: Using an escape room format transforms a traditional lesson into an adventure! Students love the thrill of solving puzzles, working together, and completing challenges, which boosts their engagement and motivation. Here’s why gamified learning is a hit in the classroom:

• Increases engagement: Students are naturally motivated by challenges and competition, making learning more interactive and exciting.
• Enhances problem-solving skills: Escape rooms require students to use logic and critical thinking to solve clues and progress through tasks.
• Encourages teamwork: As students collaborate, they practice communication and teamwork, skills essential for success in group settings.

**Perfect for Social Studies and Literacy Integration:**This escape room seamlessly integrates social studies content with reading comprehension, making it a powerful resource for interdisciplinary learning. While students strengthen their understanding of the Iroquois and Algonquian Native American tribes, they’re also developing literacy skills by interpreting information, analyzing key details, and practicing vocabulary.

This is a escape room uses gamified challenges and is based on how Iroquois and Algonquian tribes interacted with the environment and developed unique cultures which is studied in the 4th grade curriculum under the following standards:

4.2 Native American groups, chiefly the Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) and Algonquian-speaking groups, inhabited the region that became New York State. Native American Indians interacted with the environment and developed unique cultures.

4.2a Geographic factors often influenced locations of early settlements. People made use of the resources and the lands around them to meet their basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter.

• Students will examine the locations of early Native American groups in relation to geographic features, noting how certain physical features are more likely to support settlement and larger populations.
• Students will investigate how Native Americans such as the Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) and the Algonquian-speaking peoples adapted to and modified their environment to meet their needs and wants.

4.2b Native American groups developed specific patterns of organization and governance to manage their societies.

Students will compare and contrast the patterns of organization and governance of Native American groups such as the Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) and Lenape, including matrilineal clan structure, decision-making processes, and record keeping, with a focus on local Native American groups.

4.2c Each Native American group developed a unique way of life with a shared set of customs, beliefs, and values.

• Students will examine Native American traditions; job specialization the roles of men, women, and children in their society; transportation systems; and technology.
• Students will examine contributions of Native Americans that are evident today.

If you want a fun, engaging way to challenge your students, this Iroquois & Algonquian Escape Room is sure to captivate their attention while reinforcing key learning objectives.

This James Hurst "THE SCARLET IBIS" UNIT QUIZZES resource provides students a chance to show what they know. 10 SHORT RESPONSE Questions, 16-QUESTION MULTIPLE CHOICE QUIZ, Suggested Uses, EDITABLE, and Black&White Versions to encourage insightful responses from this canonized work. 6th - 10th Graders will love this quiz. Check it out!

SUMMARY:

James Hurst's "The Scarlet Ibis" is a short story about Brother, (Yes, that's his only given name in the story) who is embarrassed about his younger brother's handicap. He struggles with watching his younger brother's inability to walk and how he is supposed to feel. Does Brother change? What does he learn about life, at the last moment of a tragic event?

This 6th - 10th grade canonized work allows students to look at how we should think about others and forgo pride and selfish behaviors, and treat those less fortunate with dignity.

This Product Includes:

1. 16-Multiple Choice Questions

2. 10 Short Response Questions

3. Black and White Version

4. SUGGESTED USES

5. Answer Key provided

6. EDITABLE resource

You may also appreciate:

THE VELDT [LESSON ACTIVITIES]

THE MEDICINE BAG [LESSON PLANS and TEACHER NOTES]

WINTER DREAMS [LESSON PLANS and TEACHER NOTES]

THE MEDICINE BAG [TEXT]

HIGH HORSE GOES COURTING [TEXT]

MARIGOLDS [TEXT]

PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:

TheAngryTeacherBLOG

EMAIL LIST

INSTAGRAM

Youtube

Facebook

Pinterest

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!

"New Year's Insights: Informational Text Structure Set" is a comprehensive educational resource expertly crafted for middle school ELA teachers. This engaging and cross-curricular package is designed to enhance students' understanding of various text structures, aligning perfectly with STAAR and other standardized testing requirements.

Product Description:

• Rich Content Spanning Five Articles: Dive into five captivating articles, each centered around the iconic Times Square New Year's celebrations. These articles are not only informative but also diverse in their presentation, covering a range of topics from the history and evolution of the celebrations to their environmental impact.
• Diverse Text Structures: Each article in this set is a model of a different text structure – Description, Chronological, Problem and Solution, Compare and Contrast, and Cause and Effect. This variety provides a dynamic learning experience, helping students recognize and understand these essential components of informational texts.
• Aligned with Standardized Testing: Accompanying each article is a set of carefully crafted multiple-choice questions focusing on the central idea, vocabulary, author's purpose, and text structure. These questions are specifically aligned with STAAR and other standardized tests, making this resource an invaluable tool for test preparation.
• Cross-Curricular Learning Experience: While rooted in ELA, this resource offers a cross-curricular approach, touching on aspects of history, culture, science, and environmental studies, thus enriching the overall educational experience.
• Introduction to Text Structures: Included is an introductory Google Slides presentation that either refreshes or introduces students to the concept of text structures. This presentation is designed to be interactive and student-friendly, making it an excellent starting point for the lesson.
• Graphic Organizer for Effective Learning: To aid in comprehension and retention, a graphic organizer is provided for students to take notes during the presentation. This organizer serves as a valuable reference tool during work time, helping students organize their thoughts and analysis.
• Comprehensive Answer Keys: For each article's question set, a detailed answer key is provided, simplifying grading and allowing for in-depth class discussions on each topic.

"New Year's Insights: Informational Text Structure Set" is a must-have for any middle school ELA classroom. It not only bolsters students' reading and comprehension skills but also encourages critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the world around them. This resource is perfect for teachers looking to add depth and variety to their instruction while aligning with educational standards.

This resource is included in the New Year 2024 Bundle Here: Ring in Learning: New Year's Thematic Middle School Classroom Bundle (TeachShare.com)

Introduce your students to the thrilling no prep Ancient Egyptian Scavenger Hunt! This engaging and interactive activity puts students in the shoes of a detective trying to find a long lost burial site of an unknown pharaoh who was said to have more riches than even King Tutankhamun.

Each student, or group of students, will receive 10 reading task cards related to Ancient Egypt, how the Egyptians modified their environment, how they used their local resources, the role of artifacts and archaeological features. The task is not only to read the cards but to solve 10 questions—the catch is that the answer to each question is found on a different card, encouraging students to read all the information thoroughly.

How It Works:

• Students will need to determine the code word for each card by answering the fill-in-the-blank questions.
• Once all the code words have been found, students must unscramble the letters from each code word to discover the final mystery word.
• In addition, they will collect clues to uncover a 4-digit code, which will help them successfully complete their journey.

Failing to unscramble the mystery word or crack the 4-digit code will result in the tomb remaining sealed forever, and the expedition will be lost to the sands of time. However, completing the mission means students will have made one of the greatest discoveries in history, uncovering the forgotten pharaoh’s solid gold burial site, filled with unimaginable riches, artifacts, and secrets of Ancient Egypt!

What Makes This Activity Perfect for Your Classroom:

• Engaging and Educational: Your students will be excited to play the role of an explorer while learning about Ancient Egypt and how the Egyptians used/modified their environment.
• Critical Thinking Skills: By having to cross-reference information from multiple task cards, students practice comprehension, critical thinking, and attention to detail.
• No-Prep Needed: Simply print the task cards and hand them out to your students! It’s ready to go with minimal prep.
• Flexible Usage: This scavenger hunt can be used independently, as a group activity, or even as a fast-finisher task. It works perfectly as a history lesson, or as a fun, educational activity!

Ideal for Different Learning Styles

Whether done individually or in groups, this scavenger hunt provides the perfect opportunity for students to collaborate and share ideas as they solve the puzzles. If students are working independently, it gives them a chance to practice self-paced learning while still engaging with the history of Ancient Egypt.

Perfect for History Lessons or Fun Themed Activities This activity fits seamlessly into your classroom’s history curriculum. It’s a perfect way to introduce and reinforce learning about Ancient Egypt.

This Ancient Egypt Scavenger Hunt is not only a fun, no-prep classroom activity, but it also ensures that students gain a deeper understanding of history while developing important reading and comprehension skills. Bring the excitement of the search for the Ancient Egyptian burial site into your classroom with this adventure-packed scavenger hunt.

From Figurative Language to textual analysis, this 4-set, 200-item TASK CARDS resource allows students to break apart Bradbury's "THE VELDT." This resource has black/white and colored versions; numbered and unnumbered versions. Students get to delve deeply into the literature. Their readings will come to life and their comprehension will soar. These 50-question items will make your English Language Arts class the place to be!

1. A Grab-n-Go resource in 4 different variations that you can even tailor to your students with BLANK CARDS!
2. *These TASK CARDS are great for differentiation, absent student assignment, bell ringer, or class enders*
3. *** CHECK THE SUGGESTED USES FOR GREAT NEW WAYS TO USE THIS RESOURCE***

This Product Includes:

1. 50-numbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

2. 50-numbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

3. 50-unnumbered, colored question TASK CARDS

4. 50-unnumbered, black&white question TASK CARDS

5. 14-item Suggested Uses page

You may also appreciate:

THE MEDICINE BAG [TEXT]

MIDDLE SCHOOL READING COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS [TASK CARDS AND WORKSHEETS]

OTHELLO [UNIT DOCUMENTS & ARTICLES]

OTHELLO [UNIT QUIZZES]

MACBETH [ESSAY EXAM]

PLEASE CONSIDER FINDING ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:

TheAngryTeacherBLOG

INSTAGRAM

Youtube

Facebook

Pinterest

EMAIL LIST

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!

Keep students engaged at the end of the school year with with our week-long ELA unit for "Examination Day" by Henry Slesar. Designed for the curious middle school mind, this all-inclusive resource is your ticket to end-of-year engagement, student-led discourse, and rich academic conversations. Perfect for grades 6-8, our flexible materials invite students to think critically and creatively as they navigate a story of suspense and societal introspection.

What's Included:

• Text Included Jumpstart engaging classroom discussions with the included text, "Examination Day," poised to captivate your students.
• Dynamic Presentation Slides: Bring the narrative to life and streamline your teaching experience with our ready-to-use slides.
• Structured Socratic Seminar: Our detailed procedures and evidence writing guides promote deep, analytical, and student-driven discussions.
• Engaging Choice Board Activities: Offer a personalized learning experience with creative assignments like alternate endings, comic strips, and more.
• Comprehensive Essay Prompts: Challenge your students with argumentative, informational, and correspondence writing exercises, all crafted to reinforce critical thinking.
• Comparative Analysis Tool: A film vs. text Venn diagram activity to sharpen analytical skills and media comprehension.

Perfect For:

• End-of-Year Engagement: Maintain the learning momentum right up to the final bell with thought-provoking content that students love.
• Ready-to-Go Sub Plans: Comprehensive and easy to navigate, these plans ensure productive learning even when you can't be there.
• Mini Dystopian Unit: Seamlessly integrate with existing units on "The Pedestrian" and "All Summer in a Day" for an expansive dystopian exploration.

Ideal Pairing: Complement this unit with our Complete Week-Long Dystopian Unit Plan for "The Pedestrian" and All Summer in a Day Seminar and Choice Board, and watch as your classroom transforms into a hub of critical analysis and passionate debate.

Gear up for a lesson plan that promises not just to meet standards but to exceed them, ensuring your students are not only ready for their tests but are also equipped to question and evaluate the world around them. Make "Examination Day" the highlight of your teaching year and witness student engagement soar!

Included in this 12 week unit: Ultimate Middle School Short Story Bundle: 12 Week Engaging Suspense ELA Units (TeachShare.com)

This flip book goes through all 5 Acts of William Shakespeare's play. It also include a character map and background information to help your students successfully navigate through the text. Answer key is included and the questions are easy to answer while reading the Act or after the play is done. Easy to use and easy to grade. It makes a great study guide for students.

Context Clues Passages, Context Clues Worksheets, Vocabulary Worksheets

This resource is also included in the following discounted Bundles:

▶️ Context Clues Reading Passage BUNDLE

▶️ Context Clues BUNDLE

▶️ ELA Mega BUNDLE

▶️ ELA/SEL MEGA BUNDLE

******************************

ABOUT THIS RESOURCE

❤ Passage Title - "What Could Have Been"

Context Clues Reading Passage, Worksheets, and PowerPoint Packet

★ 46 pages

★ Resource Type – Reading Passage, Vocabulary Worksheets, PowerPoint, and Answer Keys

★ Print and Digital (PDF and Google Slides - Text boxes already created!)

★ Excellent for Grades 8-11

★ 2 Google Slide Links

★ Detailed Answer Keys / Sample Responses

This resource includes:

☆ One Reading Passage (Title - "What Could Have Been")

☆ 1 Note-catcher Worksheet

☆ 2 Vocabulary Worksheets (to define words and identify context clues)

☆ Context Clues Practice Worksheet (Variation #1)

☆ Context Clues Practice Worksheet (Variation #2)

☆ POWERPOINT version Practice Slides (Same Q's in Worksheets)

☆ 8 Word Analysis Worksheets (Words included on Worksheets)

☆ 1 BLANK Word Analysis Worksheet (You add your OWN word)

☆ Create Your Own Story Worksheet

☆ 2 Google Slide Links

*******************************

This resource is also included in Google Slides! Text boxes have already been created to make it easier for you and your students! Each slide includes two instruction solution tabs for when students accidentally delete text boxes and when they want to zoom in (to enlarge worksheets). It's super helpful for students who are not that familiar with how to use Google Slides or need the extra assistance.

*******************************

This Context Clues Reading Passage Packet includes ONE passage that explores a common teen issue / situation. The passage includes eight highlighted words designed to challenge students to broaden their vocabulary. For each word, students will be tasked with deciphering the meaning through several context clues surrounding the word. The activities come with an answer key containing the correct definition of the word, the context clues that helped them identify the meaning of the word, and an example sentence. Through this passage, students will enrich their comprehension skills while exploring a scenario relevant to teenage life.

Vocabulary featured in this packet:

⭐ trivial

⭐ rampant

⭐ botch

⭐ camaraderie

⭐ interspersed

⭐ cascade

⭐ condemn

⭐ phantom

ITEMS INCLUDED

✅ ONE Passage (Title: "What Could Have Been")

This context clues passage follows a young boy as he deals with his failure to make the basketball team. The text examines how being on the basketball team is entwined with social status.

✅ 1 Note-catcher Worksheet

The eye-catching Note-catcher can be distributed to students to take important notes during class discussions or during their reading of the passage.

✅ 2 Vocabulary Worksheets (intended for differentiation)

★ Worksheet #1 - Students will write the context clues that helped them identify the meaning of each underlined word in the passage. Then, they will write the definition of each word based on their understanding of the context clues.

★ Worksheet #2 - Students will define words they do not know the meaning of in the passage “What Could Have Been.”

✅ Context Clues Practice Worksheet (in 2 Variations)

★ Variation #1 - Students read the passage and:

• Define the underlined vocabulary words.
• Identify the context clues used to determine the meanings of the underlined vocabulary words.
• Use the underlined vocabulary words in a sentence.

★ Variation #2 - Students read the passage and:

• Define the underlined vocabulary words.
• Identify the context clues used to determine the meanings of the underlined vocabulary words.

✅ POWERPOINT version Practice Slides (Same Q's in Worksheets)

This resource includes a POWERPOINT version of the worksheets (17 slides) to make it easier for you to display and review whole class! The PowerPoint is also included on Google Slides. Students can work on one slide at a time. What's unique about how the content is presented on the PowerPoint is that each slide contains ONE vocabulary word within the paragraph it is used in. Students will read the paragraph with the underlined vocabulary word, and decipher the meaning through several context clues surrounding the word. They will also be challenged to use the word correctly in a sentence. The next slide is an ANSWER KEY slide to make it easier to review!

✅ 8 Word Analysis Worksheets (Words included on Worksheets)

This resource includes 8 Word Analysis Worksheets, ONE for EACH word. Here, students are asked to define the word based on context clues, list the word's synonyms and antonyms, and write a sentence using the word. ANSWER KEYS for each worksheet is included.

► A BLANK Word Analysis Worksheet is also included in case you want students to analyze other words.

✅ Create Your Own Story Worksheet

Students will have an opportunity to show their creativity by creating their own story or passage using as many of the vocabulary words as they can. Challenge them to include context clues, so readers can use them to determine the meanings of the words.

❤️ Students may really enjoy reading aloud their stories/passages to their partners, teachers, or class!

*******************************

Other Context Clues resources you might be interested in:

► Context Clues BUNDLE

► Context Clues Lesson and PowerPoint PACKET

► Context Clues Practice Worksheets and ANSWER KEYS

► Context Clues Text Message Worksheets and ANSWER KEYS

► Context Clues Test and PowerPoint

► Context Clues Task Card Packet

► Multiple-Choice Test and KEY

► Context Clues Posters

CONTEXT CLUES READING PASSAGES like this:

▶️ Context Clues Reading Passage BUNDLE

▶️ Context Clues - "A Moment of Doubt"

▶️ Context Clues - "I'm A Bully"

▶️ Context Clues - "The New Girl"

▶️ Context Clues - "The Test"

▶️ Context Clues - "What Could Have Been"

*******************************

Created by © Queen's Educational Resources / © All Rights Reserved

Your purchase includes one copy to be used in a single classroom. If you are looking for multiple copies, please be sure to purchase additional licenses.

*******************************

Interested in REAL-LIFE SCENARIOS?

Checkout my REAL-LIFE SCENARIOS LIBRARY!

*******************************

Interested in realistic kids, teens, and adults clipart? Check out my CLIPART GALLERY!

*******************************

Click here to FOLLOW ME!

Please feel free to email me if you have any questions!

queenseducationalresources@gmail.com

*******************************

DID YOU KNOW that you can earn money for future TeachShare purchases when you leave feedback on a resource you purchased?!?!? All you have to do is leave feedback on the purchased resource! When you do so, you earn TPT credits. These TPT credits can be redeemed and used toward future purchases!

❤️ Reviews and Ratings: Reviews and Ratings are extremely important to me. Your time to rate this product and write a review will greatly be appreciated! ;-)

*******************************

LET'S CONNECT:

• My Website
• Queen's Clipart Gallery
• Facebook
• Pinterest
• Instagram
• TeachShare

Looking for an exciting way to teach your students about soils and weathering? This Soils and Weathering Escape Room is the perfect blend of science content, close reading, and gamified learning! In this activity, students will explore how soil forms, the layers of soil, the importance of soil, and the difference between physical and chemical weathering through an engaging close reading article and four unique challenges.

Overview of the Activity: Students begin by reading a two-page informational passage that explains what soil is made of, how weathering occurs, and why soil is essential for plants and the environment. The article includes essential vocabulary like soil, rock, particles, silt, nutrients, weathering, and abrasion, providing a solid foundation for students before they tackle the four interactive challenges.

Each challenge targets a different skill:

• Challenge 1: Matching vocabulary terms to their definitions (reinforcing soil and weathering concepts).
• Challenge 2: True/false questions based on key facts from the reading (to build comprehension).
• Challenge 3: Multiple-choice questions (testing understanding of key concepts like the layers of soil and types of weathering).
• Challenge 4: Identifying the paragraph where certain information is found (developing close reading skills).

For each correct answer, students receive a clue—a one-digit number. After completing all four challenges, students use their numbers to solve a final puzzle and “escape” the room.

**Why Use Close Reading?:**Close reading is an instructional approach that encourages students to carefully analyze and interpret a text. In this escape room, students must return to the passage multiple times to find the answers to the questions, helping them:

• Improve their reading comprehension.
• Strengthen critical thinking skills.
• Become more independent readers who can tackle complex information.

Benefits of Gamified Learning: Using an escape room format transforms a traditional lesson into an adventure! Students love the thrill of solving puzzles, working together, and completing challenges, which boosts their engagement and motivation. Here’s why gamified learning is a hit in the classroom:

• Increases engagement: Students are naturally motivated by challenges and competition, making learning more interactive and exciting.
• Enhances problem-solving skills: Escape rooms require students to use logic and critical thinking to solve clues and progress through tasks.
• Encourages teamwork: As students collaborate, they practice communication and teamwork, skills essential for success in group settings.

**Perfect for Science and Literacy Integration:**This escape room seamlessly integrates science content with reading comprehension, making it a powerful resource for interdisciplinary learning. While students strengthen their understanding of soils and weathering, they’re also developing literacy skills by interpreting information, analyzing key details, and practicing vocabulary.

Whether you’re teaching about the formation of soil, the processes of physical and chemical weathering, or just looking for a fun, engaging way to challenge your students, this Soils and Weathering Escape Room is sure to captivate their attention while reinforcing key learning objectives.

This Liam O'Flaherty "THE SNIPER" UNIT QUIZZES product provides students a chance to show what they know. 10 SHORT RESPONSE Questions, 12-QUESTION MULTIPLE CHOICE QUIZ, Suggested Uses, and Black&White Versions to encourage insightful responses from this canonized work. 11th - 12th Graders will love this quiz. 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. 12-Multiple Choice Questions

2. 10 Short Response Questions

3. Black and White Version

4. Answer Key provided

You may also appreciate:

EUDORA WELTY'S A WORN PATH [TEXT]

MARK STRAND'S SPACE [TEXT]

A WHITE HERON [TEXT]

SHOOTING AN ELEPHANT [TEXT]

THANK YOU, MA'AM [TEXT]

FIND ME ON THESE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS:

TheAngryTeacherBLOG

INSTAGRAM

Youtube

Facebook

Pinterest

TeeSpring

EMAIL

TIKTOK

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.

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!

This is a set of quizzes for the different chapters of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. There are a total of 6 quizzes based on the chapters of the book the students have read. Each quiz has five multiple choice questions and the answer key is included. This makes an easy bell ringer or exit ticket when reading the novel.