Lexile 250

1st B, 2nd C
 Lesson Tracker

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© Achieve3000 2019
 A Musical Pioneer (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

In the world of classical music, most conductors are men. And there are few conductors of color. But South
Africa's Ofentse Pitse stands out. She's a young, black, female conductor. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Courtesy Ofentse Pitse

This is a photo of Ofentse Pitse. Pitse is the conductor of Anchored Sound.

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (Achieve3000, January 14, 2020). Ofentse Pitse is 27. She lives in
South Africa. She used to be an architect. But classical music was calling to her. And she listened! Now she
leads Anchored Sound. That's an orchestra and choir. She started the group herself.

Why did Pitse start Anchored Sound? To change the lives of young black people. First, she put together a
choir. This was in 2017. She picked great singers. Where did they live? In poor communities. Pitse gave
them a chance to use their gifts. In 2019, she put together the orchestra. She's the conductor.

In the world of classical music, Pitse is a pioneer. Most conductors are men. And there are few conductors
of color. Pitse is a young black woman. So she stands out.

At classical music concerts, you often hear music written long ago. The pieces are by European composers.
Beethoven is one. But Pitse's shows are different. The music is by African composers. Pitse hopes to bring
African classical music to the world.

Video credit: Mesia Gumede

Dictionary
architect (noun) a person who designs buildings
choir (noun) a group of singers especially in a church
conductor (noun) a person who stands in front of people while they sing or play musical
instruments and directs their performance
orchestra (noun) a group of musicians who play usually classical music together and who are
led by a conductor
pioneer (noun) a person who helps create or develop new ideas, methods, etc.
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)
Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
Beethoven is a European composer.
Pitse used to be an architect.
Most conductors are men.
Pitse leads an orchestra and choir.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Pitse put together a youth choir in 2017.
The music of African composers sounds good.
Beethoven was a European composer.
Pitse started a group called Anchored Sound.

Question 3
The Article says:
But Pitse's shows are different. The music is by African composers. Pitse hopes to bring African
classical music to the world.

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.
what kind of music Pitse's shows have
where Pitse usually has her shows
when Pitse became a composer
why Pitse has written classical music

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
first and last
poor and strange
classical and loud
lives and stays
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
Pitse was not born in South Africa
Pitse doesn't like the music of Beethoven
Pitse has written some classical works
Pitse wants to help other people

Question 6
Which is not in the Article?
Why Pitse likes Beethoven
When Pitse put together an orchestra
Why Pitse started Anchored Sound
When Pitse started her choir

Question 7
The Article says:
At classical music concerts, you often hear music written long ago. The pieces are by
European composers. Beethoven is one.

Which means almost the same as composer?

teacher
writer
leader
singer

Question 8
Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how Pitse's concerts are different from most concerts?
The music is by African composers. Pitse hopes to bring African classical music to the world.
Now she leads Anchored Sound. That's an orchestra and choir.
Ofentse Pitse is 27. She lives in South Africa. She used to be an architect.
Why did Pitse start Anchored Sound? To change the lives of young black people.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
People who are willing to stand out help to bring about change.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Imagine you are a reporter who is speaking with Ofentse Pitse. What questions might you ask her? What might
her answers be? Include information from the Article, as well as vocabulary terms and describing words, in
your answer.
 Ancient Lines in the Sand (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

In Southern Peru, there are big ground drawings. They're in the desert sand. They were put there more than
1,500 years ago. But scientists aren't sure what they were for. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Daniel Prudek/Shutterstock

A monkey geoglyph is seen from above. It's one of the many ground drawings known as the Nazca Lines.

NAZCA, Peru (Achieve3000, January 3, 2020). You're in an airplane. It's flying over southern Peru. You
look out the window. What's below? Drawings on the ground! They're called geoglyphs. They're in the
desert sands. They're of animals, plants, and more.

These geoglyphs are called the Nazca Lines. They've been around for more than 1,500 years. And there are
many of them. Some are as large as the Statue of Liberty! But people didn't notice them until 1927. That's
when an archaeologist found some. Today, technology such as drones has found more geoglyphs. The best
way to see them is from up above.

Who made the geoglyphs? The Nazca people. They lived before the Incas. How did they make them? By
taking away some of the dark rocks that covered the ground. This showed the lighter-colored sand
underneath.

Why were the geoglyphs made? Researchers aren't sure. They think they were part of rituals for rain and
crops. Or that they led people to where the rituals took place.

Video credit: Achieve3000 from footage by maxuser/Creatas Video+/Getty Images

Dictionary
archaeology (noun) a science that deals with past human life and activities by studying the
bones, tools, etc., of ancient people
drone (noun) a type of small aircraft that flies without a pilot
research (verb) to study (something) carefully
ritual (noun) an act or series of acts done in a particular situation and in the same way each
time
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
The geoglyphs might have led people to rituals.
The Nazca Lines were found by an archaeologist.
The Nazca Lines are drawings in the desert sand.
The geoglyphs have been around for many years.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
The best way to see the lines is from up above.
Drones have found some of the geoglyphs.
It's very interesting to study the Nazca Lines.
The Nazca people lived before the Incas did.

Question 3
The Article says:
You look out the window. What's below? Drawings on the ground! They're called geoglyphs.
They're in the desert sands. They're of animals, plants, and more.
This helps the reader to know __________.
what the Nazca Lines look like
why the Nazca Lines were made
that animals live in the desert
that finding the lines is not easy

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
desert and ground
before and after
think and see
technology and computer
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
most of the Nazca Lines were made after 1927
some of the lines point to places to grow crops
it's hard to see the animal shapes from the ground
the Nazca Lines were made by an archaeologist

Question 6
Which is not in the Article?
What researchers think the lines were for
Who found the Nazca Lines in 1927
Who lived before the Incas
Why researchers made the lines

Question 7
The Article says:
How did they make them? By taking away some of the dark rocks that covered the ground. This
showed the lighter-colored sand underneath.

Which means almost the same as rocks?

mud
dirt
water
stones

Question 8
Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how the Nazca Lines were made?
By taking away some of the dark rocks that covered the ground. This showed the lighter-colored sand
underneath.
Why were the geoglyphs made? Researchers aren't sure. They think they were part of rituals for rain and
crops
You're in an airplane. It's flying over southern Peru. You look out the window. What's below? Drawings on
the ground!
These geoglyphs are called the Nazca Lines. They've been around for more than 1,500 years. And there are
many of them.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Some things should stay a secret.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Give three reasons why the Nazca Lines are interesting to visit and/or study? What's left to know about them?
Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.
 Animated Favorites Get Real (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Moviemakers are remaking old cartoon movies. The new movies have real people. The Jungle Book and Beauty
and the Beast are two of these live-action remakes. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Tinseltown/Shutterstock

Many families love live-action remakes of animated movies. "Aladdin" is one of these movies. It stars Will Smith.

LOS ANGELES, California (Achieve3000, August 20, 2019). Like the Fairy Godmother waving her
wand, moviemakers are bringing new life to old animated movies. Bibbidi-bobbidi-booyah! They're now
live-action hits. They have real people.
Live-action remakes can make lots of money. They have a winning formula: Big stars. Special effects.
Stories fans love. Characters who seem like old friends. It's box office gold! That's right. Ka-ching!
The power of nostalgia helps. Adults watched these movies growing up. They loved them. So they like
taking their kids to see them.
Moviemakers like these movies. They can add diversity. So more kids see characters who look like them.
That's not all. They can crank up the girl power! Have you noticed? Many remakes have strong girl
characters.
What do you think about live-action remakes?

Dictionary
animated (adjective) produced by the creation of a series of drawings, pictures, etc., that are
shown quickly one after another: produced through the process of animation
diversity (noun) the state of having people who are different races or who have different
cultures in a group or organization
nostalgia (noun) pleasure and sadness that is caused by remembering something from the past
and wishing that you could experience it again
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why do parents take their kids to see the remakes?
They know the movies have made lots of money.
They loved the animated movies growing up.
They can crank up the girl power.
They can add diversity to the movies.

Question 2
What is this Article mainly about?
Adults watch movies with their kids.
People love the new live-action remakes of animated movies.
Kids still watch old animated movies.
Some movie characters seem just like old friends.

Question 3
Which is not in the Article?
What the "winning formula" for movies is
Who adults take to the movies
Which animated characters people like
Why people like live-action films so much

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
character and teacher
old and funny
hit and winner
strong and large

Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
people want more animated movies
some kids take their friends to the movies
most people don't like the new remakes
kids like movies with characters like them
Question 6
The Article says:
Live-action remakes can make lots of money. They have a winning formula: Big stars. Special
effects. Stories fans love. Characters who seem like old friends. It's box office gold!

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.
why people still watch old animated movies
why Hollywood actors can make so much money
why fans don't always like live-action remakes
why moviemakers remake animated movies

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why a parent might go and see today's live-action
movies?
Bibbidi-bobbidi-booyah! They're now live-action hits. They have real people.
Like the Fairy Godmother waving her wand, moviemakers are bringing new life to old animated movies.
Moviemakers like these movies. They can add diversity. So more kids see characters who look like them.
The power of nostalgia helps. Adults watched these movies growing up. They loved them. So they like
taking their kids to see them.

Question 8
The Article says:
The power of nostalgia helps. Adults watched these movies growing up. They loved them.

Which means almost the same as watched?

bought
forgot
copied
saw

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Live-action remakes are more entertaining than the cartoon classics.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Write a summary of the Article. A summary tells what the main idea of a story is. To write a summary you
should:
STEP 1: Read the Article.
STEP 2a: Look back at each paragraph. Find the main idea of each paragraph.
STEP 2b: Take out any facts that are not needed.
STEP 2c: Put everything—in your own words—into a few sentences.
STEP 3: Read your summary again.
STEP 4: Check your work. Make any last changes to your summary.
 Bubble Tea Is Blowing Up (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

A fairly new drink called "bubble tea" is winning fans across the world. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: jarenwicklund/iStock/Getty Images

A bubble tea shop is a sweet spot to hang out.

TAIPEI, Taiwan (Achieve3000, May 7, 2019). Have you heard of bubble tea? It's from Taiwan. It's like a
drink and a snack. Many shops sell it. They're opening all over.

Bubble tea starts with milk tea. Then, treats are added. They usually rest at the bottom. Often, they're balls
of tapioca. They're sweet. People call them "bubbles." There can also be bubbles on top of the drink. They
form when the drink is shaken.

Bubble tea was invented in Taiwan. This was in the 1980s. It was a hit. Then it spread across Asia. In the
1990s, bubble tea shops opened in the U.S. Now, they're in other places, too.

Some shops sell over a hundred flavors! Want to try mango? How about chocolate pudding? And don't
forget the toppings. How about chia seeds? How about red beans?

The shops can be great places to chill. Many kids go there to hang out with friends. They may play games
or study.

Information for this story came from VOA.

Credit: Voice of America
Dictionary
invent (verb) to make something that has never been made before
tapioca (noun) a food made from cassava, the root of a tropical plant
treat (noun) something good that you don't get very often
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)
Question 1
What is the main idea of this Article?
Kids can hang out with friends at bubble tea shops.
The "bubbles" in bubble tea can be tapioca balls.
People all around the world love bubble tea.
Some bubble tea shops sell over a hundred flavors.

Question 2
Which word means almost the same as treat, as it is used in the Article?
Hat
Box
Goody
Fish

Question 3
Look at the events below. Think about the Article. Which took place first?
This question asks about when events happened. It does not ask where in the Article the events show up. Look
back at the Article for clues, like dates.
Bubble tea shops opened in the U.S.
Bubble tea was made in Taiwan.
Bubble tea shops opened across the world.
Bubble tea spread across Asia.

Question 4
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Bubble tea was first made in Taiwan.
Some kids go to bubble tea shops to hang out.
Chocolate pudding is the tastiest flavor.
There are over a hundred flavors of bubble tea.

Question 5
Rosa wants to know what tapioca is. How can she find out? She could use a __________.
Dictionary
Newspaper
Map
Calendar
Question 6
The Article says:
It's like a drink and a snack. Many shops sell it. They're opening all over. Bubble tea starts with
milk tea. Then, treats are added.

Which must mean almost the same as snack, as it is used above?

Surprise
Tool
Plant
Food

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that bubble tea shops can be fun places to go?
Bubble tea starts with milk tea.
In the 1990s, bubble tea shops opened in the U.S.
Many kids go there to hang out with friends.
Many shops sell it.

Question 8
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
The U.S. is where tapioca was first made.
Bubble tea shops ask people to finish their drinks quickly.
The U.S. has more bubble tea shops than any other country.
More and more people like to drink bubble tea.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.

Newer is better.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

What is bubble tea? What can you tell about the people who visit bubble tea shops? Use facts and details
from the Article in your answer.
 Cooking Up Native Traditions (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Sean Sherman saw a problem in Native American communities. He came up with a plan to fix it. What do you
think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: AP/Amy Forliti

Sean Sherman cooks up Native American recipes.

Minneapolis, Minnesota (Achieve3000, January 17, 2020). Sean Sherman is Native American. He's part
of the Lakota Sioux tribe. He grew up on a reservation. As a kid, he ate foods given to his family by the
U.S. government. Like what? Canned beans. Boxed rice. Sherman later wondered: Where were the foods
from his family's culture?

So Sherman learned about his culture. In the past, many Native American food traditions were lost. And
Native food sources, like bison, were nearly wiped out. When did this happen? When Europeans came.
Before that? Native Americans grew and hunted different foods. They used their own traditional ways.

Sherman had an idea: He wanted to bring back those traditions. But how?

Sherman started a cooking business. It's called The Sioux Chef. His recipes use ingredients from nature.
Like what? Mushrooms and wild rice. Sherman skips ingredients brought by Europeans.

Another reason Sherman does this? The foods given to many Native Americans, like those Sherman ate as
a kid, aren't healthy. This causes health problems. Diabetes is one. But not Native foods. They are good for
people.

Video credit: The Sioux Chef

 Dictionary
bison (noun) a large, hairy wild animal that has a big head and short horns
culture (noun) the beliefs, customs, arts, etc., of a particular society, group, place, or time
diabetes (noun) a serious disease in which the body cannot properly control the amount of
sugar in your blood because it does not have enough insulin
recipe (noun) a set of instructions for making something from various ingredients
reservation (noun) an area of land in the U.S. that is kept separate as a place for Native
Americans to live
tradition (noun) a way of thinking, behaving, or doing something that has been used by the
people in a particular group, family, society, etc., for a long time

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
The government gives Native Americans boxed rice.
Bison were nearly wiped out after Europeans came.
Sherman's recipes use mushrooms and wild rice.
Sherman is bringing back Native American foods.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Native foods have less sugar.
The bison were nearly wiped out.
Sherman uses ingredients from nature.
Sherman's recipes taste great.

Question 3
The Article says:
The foods given to many Native Americans, like those Sherman ate as a kid, aren't
healthy. This causes health problems. Diabetes is one. But not Native foods. They are good for
people.
This helps the reader to know __________.
who helps Sherman make Native foods
why Sherman has some health problems
which Native foods Sherman likes to eat
why Sherman is bringing back Native foods
Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
asked and saw
food and ingredient
before and after
learned and studied

Question 5
Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?
Sherman will put canned beans in his recipes.
Sherman will stop using wild rice and mushrooms.
More people will learn about Native foods.
Native American foods will cause health problems.

Question 6
Which is not in the Article?
Why it's hard to find wild rice
What animal was nearly wiped out
What foods Sherman ate as a kid
What problem some Native Americans have

Question 7
The Article says:
So Sherman learned about his culture. In the past, many Native American food traditions
were lost. And Native food sources, like bison, were nearly wiped out.

Which means the opposite of lost?

said
found
used
made

Question 8
Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows what kinds of foods Sherman ate when he was young?
In the past, many Native American food traditions were lost. And Native food sources, like bison, were
nearly wiped out.
When did this happen? When Europeans came. Before that? Native Americans grew and hunted different
foods.
As a kid, he ate foods given to his family by the U.S. government. Like what? Canned beans. Boxed rice.
His recipes use ingredients from nature. Like what? Mushrooms and wild rice.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Don't sit back when you see a problem—find ways to fix it yourself.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Describe something that Sean Sherman did. Explain what that tells about him. Use facts and details from the
Article in your answer.
 Defying Gravity (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Simone Biles has been called the greatest gymnast ever. However, her rise to the top has not always been easy.
What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Marijan Murat/dpa via AP

Gymnast Simone Biles shows off some of her gold medals.

STUTTGART, Germany (Achieve3000, October 24, 2019). Simone Biles is a gymnast. She's been called
the greatest ever. How did she get to be great? With hard work.

Biles was born on March 14, 1997. Her early life wasn't easy. Her parents couldn't care for her. So she lived
in foster care. In 2003, her grandparents stepped in. They adopted her.

Biles got into gymnastics early. She was 6. Even back then, she gave it her all. She never missed a practice.
But in 2011, she didn't make the U.S. team. This made her sad. Did she give up? No way! And in 2013, she
made the team.

At age 19, Biles went to the 2016 Olympics. She led Team U.S.A. She and swimmer Katie Ledecky were
the female athletes with the most medals. Biles won five.

And in October 2019, Biles made history. She was at the world championships. And she won her 25th
medal. That's more than any other gymnast in the world!

Credit: Video Credit: Team USA

Dictionary
adopt (verb) to take a child of other parents legally as your own child
foster (adjective) used to describe a situation in which for a period of time a child lives with
and is cared for by people who are not the child's parents
medal (noun) a piece of metal often in the form of a coin with designs and words in honor of
a special event, a person, or an achievement
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
Biles was adopted by her grandparents in 2003.
Biles never gave up and became a great gymnast.
Biles got into gymnastics when she was just 6.
Biles never missed a gymnastics practice as a child.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Biles wasn't a good gymnast in 2011.
Biles has won 25 world championship medals.
Biles led Team U.S.A. at the 2016 Olympics.
Biles spent her early years in foster care.

Question 3
The Article says:
But in 2011, she didn't make the U.S. team. This made her sad. Did she give up? No way! And
in 2013, she made the team.
Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know that __________.
Biles has always been the best gymnast
people think that Biles is sad
problems make Biles try harder
Biles should've made the 2011 team

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
make and help
easy and hard
early and late
greatest and best
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
Biles missed practice a lot
Biles will not win any more medals
Biles hurt herself as a child
Biles doesn't like to give up

Question 6
Which is not in the Article?
Who adopted Biles in 2003
Where does Biles live
When Biles got into gymnastics
When Biles was born

Question 7
The Article says:
But in 2011, she didn't make the U.S. team. This made her sad. Did she give up? No way! And
in 2013, she made the team.

Which means almost the same as sad?

angry
funny
unhappy
unfriendly

Question 8
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Biles' life as a child was sometimes hard?
And in October 2019, Biles made history. She was at the world championships.
Simone Biles is a gymnast. She's been called the greatest ever. How did she get to be great?
At age 19, Biles went to the 2016 Olympics. She led Team U.S.A.
[Biles'] early life wasn't easy. Her parents couldn't care for her. So she lived in foster care.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
With enough hard work, anything is possible.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Who is Simone Biles? And why has she been called the greatest gymnast ever? Use facts and details from the
Article in your answer.
 Give Me S'more! (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Many people like to make a dessert called s'mores. The gooey treats are made with marshmallows, chocolate,
and graham crackers. What do you think of this well-known saying?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: kellyvandellen/iStock/Getty Images

This is a s'more. It's made of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers.

SAVANNAH, Georgia (Achieve3000, July 18, 2019). S'mores are yummy. Want to make some? Here's
how:
1. Get a graham cracker. Break it in half. Place chocolate on one half.
2. Put a marshmallow on a stick. Hold it over a campfire.
3. Use the stick to set the hot marshmallow on the chocolate.
4. Take the other cracker half. Put it on the marshmallow.
5. Smoosh the crackers together. Pull out the stick.
6. Eat!

S'mores have three parts: the gooey, the chocolatey, and the crispy. The gooey? That's the marshmallow.
Marshmallows aren't new. But they used to be a luxury for only the rich. Today, they cost less.

The chocolatey? That's milk chocolate. Milk chocolate has been around since 1875. What's in it?
Chocolate, sugar, and milk.

But who first made s'mores? No one's sure. Maybe it was the Girl Scouts. A 1927 Girl Scouts manual talks
about the snack.

What if you don't have a campfire? You can make a s'more in the oven or microwave.

S'more yumminess? Yes, please!

Information for this story came from AP.

Video credit: Hilah Cooking
 Dictionary
luxury (noun) something that costs a lot and is nice to have but is not really needed
manual (noun) a small book that gives instructions or helpful information about something

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why do some people think Girl Scouts made s'mores first?
Girl Scouts learn how to make campfires.
A Girl Scouts manual talked about s'mores.
S'mores use milk chocolate.
Marshmallows were only for the rich.

Question 2
Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.
When milk chocolate was first made
What milk chocolate is made of
How to make a s'more
How much marshmallows cost

Question 3
Which word means almost the same as manual, as it is used in the Article?
Guide
Newspaper
Rhyme
Painting

Question 4
Which is not in the Article?
Milk chocolate has milk, sugar, and chocolate.
A 1927 Girl Scouts manual talks about s'mores.
Graham crackers were first made in the late 1800s.
Marshmallows were once eaten only by rich people.
Question 5
The Article says:
What if you don't have a campfire? You can make a s'more in the oven or microwave.

This helps the reader to know __________.

That microwaves are not very easy to use
That campfires are not safe
That oven s'mores are best
That there are different ways to make s'mores

Question 6
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
Yummy and crispy
Less and more
Microwave and oven
Over and beside

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells how milk chocolate is made?
What if you don't have a campfire? You can make a s'more in the oven or microwave. S'more yumminess?
Yes, please!
The chocolatey? That's milk chocolate. Milk chocolate has been around since 1875. What's in it?
Chocolate, sugar, and milk.
But who first made s'mores? No one's sure. Maybe it was the Girl Scouts. A 1927 Girl Scouts manual talks
about the snack.
The gooey? That's the marshmallow. Marshmallows aren't new. But they used to be a luxury for only the
rich. Today, they cost less.

Question 8
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
It costs a lot of money to make s'mores.
Very few Girl Scouts made s'mores after 1927.
S'mores are easy to make.
Marshmallows used to be too sweet.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
S'mores always leave you beggin' for s'more!

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Write a summary of the Article. A summary tells what the main idea of a story is. To write a summary you
should:
STEP 1: Read the Article.
STEP 2a: Look back at each paragraph. Find the main idea of each paragraph.
STEP 2b: Take out any facts that are not needed.
STEP 2c: Put everything—in your own words—into a few sentences.
STEP 3: Read your summary again.
STEP 4: Check your work. Make any last changes to your summary.
 Global Game Fame (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

In 2019, several video games were chosen for the World Video Game Hall of Fame. One game came out in
1976. Two others came out in the 1990s. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: The Strong National Museum of Play via AP

Each year, games are chosen for the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

ROCHESTER, New York (Achieve3000, May 10, 2019). Super Mario Kart. Microsoft Solitaire. Colossal
Cave Adventure. What do these games have in common? In 2019, they were chosen for the World Video
Game Hall of Fame.

This is in New York. It opened in 2015. It's for the best and most important video games. Some are from
the past. But they stood the test of time.

Take Colossal Cave Adventure. It's from 1976. It helped start computer gaming. Microsoft Solitaire is a
computer card game. It's from 1991. It taught players how to use a mouse.
Super Mario Kart came out in 1992. It was the first Mario Kart racing game. Fun fact: Mario wasn't meant
to be in the game. But people liked a drawing of the plumber. The rest is history!
Information for this story came from AP.

Dictionary
Hall of Fame (noun) a place to honor well-known people or things
plumber (noun) someone who works on pipes, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, and other things that
carry water
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)
Question 1
What is the main idea of this Article?
Colossal Cave Adventure is a video game from 1976.
Microsoft Solitaire taught players how to use a mouse.
The World Video Game Hall of Fame is in New York.
Important video games go into a hall of fame every year.

Question 2
Which word means almost the same as plumber, as it is used in the Article?
Leader
Actor
Player
Fixer

Question 3
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Colossal Cave Adventure helped start computer gaming.
Super Mario Kart is more fun than Microsoft Solitaire.
The World Video Game Hall of Fame began in 2015.
The hall of fame winners are not always new games.

Question 4
Think about the Article. How is Microsoft Solitaire different from Super Mario Kart?
Solitaire is played by many people.
Super Mario Kart came out in the 1990s.
Super Mario Kart is a video game.
Solitaire taught players how to use a mouse.

Question 5
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Drawing and picture
Teach and study
Cave and street
Common and hard
Question 6
The Article says:
[The World Video Game Hall of Fame] is in New York. It opened in 2015. It's for the best and
most important video games. Some are from the past. But they stood the test of time.

Why is this in the Article? It shows ___________.

What the hall of fame is for
Who goes to the hall of fame
Why people like the hall of fame
How to find the hall of fame

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells why a game was chosen for the hall of fame?
Fun fact: Mario wasn't meant to be in the game. But people liked a drawing of the plumber.
Microsoft Solitaire is a computer card game. It's from 1991.
In 2019, they were chosen for the World Video Game Hall of Fame. This is in New York.
Take Colossal Cave Adventure. It's from 1976. It helped start computer gaming.

Question 8
Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?
Mario won't be a plumber in the new Super Mario Kart.
More games will go into the hall of fame next year.
The hall of fame will open in a new place soon.
Colossal Cave Adventure will win next year's hall of fame.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Older video games are more fun to play.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Write a story about visiting the World Video Game Hall of Fame. Which video game did you most want to see
and why? Use describing words from the Article in your answer.
 Good, Bad, or Ugly? (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Many fruits and veggies are wasted because they don't look "perfect." Now, some companies are selling "ugly"
fruits and veggies. They ship them to people's homes. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: AP/Joshua McKerrow/The Baltimore Sun

Does this carrot have a tail? A company is selling it anyway.

URBANDALE, Iowa (Achieve3000, May 6, 2019). Would you buy ugly produce? Many people wouldn't.
So supermarkets don't sell it.

But now, some companies are selling ugly produce. They don't want it to go to waste.

That sounds great. But not everyone is happy.

The Ugly Truth?

Critics say ugly produce isn't wasted. Farmers sell it. They also use it. It's fed to animals. It's added to the
soil for nutrients.

Not So Bad, After All?

Ugly produce companies are fighting back. Food waste is a big problem, they say. About 30 percent of food
in the U.S. is wasted.

The companies can help stop waste. Farmers can, too.

Dictionary
critic (noun) a person who finds something wrong in something or someone
nutrient (noun) what a living thing needs to live, such as water and minerals
produce (noun) fruits and vegetables
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why are some companies selling ugly produce?
They hope to feed animals on farms.
They know farmers will not sell it.
They believe supermarkets will buy it.
They do not want the produce wasted.

Question 2
Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?
Ugly produce is used to feed animals.
Ugly produce can be added to the soil.
About 30 percent of food in the U.S. is wasted.
Some companies are selling ugly produce.

Question 3
Which of these is a fact?
Supermarkets should only sell pretty produce.
It is a bad idea to eat ugly fruits and vegetables.
Some companies sell ugly fruits and vegetables.
It is not a problem to waste 30 percent of food.

Question 4
Which word means almost the same as produce, as it is used in the Article?
Food
Picture
Animal
Farm

Question 5
The author probably wrote this Article in order to __________.
Get people in the U.S. to stop wasting food
Explain why some companies sell ugly produce
Tell readers that ugly produce feeds farm animals
Tell readers to buy their food from farmers
Question 6
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why some companies sell ugly produce?
Would you buy ugly produce? Many people wouldn't. So supermarkets don't sell it.
Food waste is a big problem, they say. About 30 percent of food in the U.S. is wasted.
They also use it. It's fed to animals. It's added to the soil for nutrients.
Critics say ugly produce isn't wasted. Farmers sell it.

Question 7
Which two words have almost the same meaning, as they're used in the Article?
Supermarket and farmer
Use and waste
Produce and food
Happy and ugly

Question 8
Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?
Ugly produce companies will sell to farmers.
Farmers will give away all their ugly produce.
People in the U.S. will keep wasting food.
Critics will say all ugly produce is wasted.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
All "ugly" produce should be given away to people in need.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Are ugly produce companies a good idea? Write what people on both sides of the argument believe. Which side
do you agree with and why? Use facts and details from the Article to back up your answer.
 Katherine the Great (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)
One woman did math for NASA. She started in the 1950s. Back then, many African American women were
told they could not have high-level jobs. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Joseph Rodriguez/AP

Katherine Johnson made headlines.

HAMPTON, Virginia (Achieve3000, February 25, 2019). Katherine Johnson worked for NASA. She
started in the 1950s. Her math helped people go into space. She's a hero.
Have you seen Hidden Figures? The movie tells Johnson's story. She worked with other African American
women. NASA called them "human computers." One thing they worked on was trajectories.

John Glenn was an astronaut. He trusted Johnson's math. In 1962, Glenn was going into space. A
programmed computer did the math. But Glenn wanted Johnson to check it. She did. The trip went well.
Johnson's math helped other space trips go well, too.

Johnson left NASA in 1986. She turned 100 in 2018. She wrote an autobiography. It's called Reaching for
the Moon. It comes out in 2019.

Johnson's book is for young readers. She wants kids to believe they can do anything.

Information for this story came from AP.

Video credit: NASA

Dictionary
autobiography (noun) the story of someone's life written by that person
NASA (noun) a group that studies space; it is run by U.S. leaders
trajectory (noun) the path of an object through space
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)
Question 1
Think about the Article. Why did John Glenn ask Katherine Johnson to check some math?
Glenn saw the movie Hidden Figures.
Johnson wrote a book about Glenn.
Glenn trusted Johnson's work.
Johnson knew how to use a computer.

Question 2
What is the main idea of this Article?
Katherine Johnson is a hero for her work at NASA.
Katherine Johnson turned 100 years old in 2018.
Katherine Johnson worked with other women.
Katherine Johnson wrote an autobiography.

Question 3
Think about the Article. Which must have taken place first?
This question asks about when events happened. It does not ask where in the Article the events show up. Look
back at the Article for clues, like dates.
Katherine Johnson helped John Glenn go into space.
Katherine Johnson turned 100 years old.
Katherine Johnson got a job at NASA.
Katherine Johnson wrote Reaching for the Moon.

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
Anything and nothing
Readers and kids
Trips and rides
Seen and watched
Question 5
Kay wants to know more about going into space. She should look __________.
In a dictionary, under the word "autobiography"
In a book about different NASA trips
At a list of the actors in Hidden Figures
At a photo of some "human computers"

Question 6
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
Reaching for the Moon is too hard for most kids to read.
Katherine Johnson only likes numbers, not words.
Working at NASA was probably simple in the 1950s.
Some important people believed in Katherine Johnson.

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Katherine Johnson does more than math?
The movie tells Johnson's story.
She wrote an autobiography.
NASA called them "human computers."
Katherine Johnson worked for NASA.

Question 8
The Article says:
Johnson's book is for young readers. She wants kids to believe they can do anything.

Which must mean almost the opposite of young, as it is used above?

Old
Real
Past
Wise
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
If you can imagine it, you can achieve it.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Describe Katherine Johnson's work at NASA. How did she help lead the way for women and African
Americans to do well in math and other technical fields? Use facts and details from the lesson in your answer.
 Otzi the Iceman (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Ötzi the Iceman lived about 5,300 years ago. Scientists have been studying Ötzi since his body was found in
1991. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Sergio Monti Photography/Shutterstock

This is what Ötzi the Iceman may have looked like.

BOLZANO, Italy (Achieve3000, November 21, 2019). It was about 5,300 years ago. A man was climbing
up a mountain in Italy. He was hurt. And it was cold. Would he stay alive? He would not. But today, people
are learning all about him. Here's why.

Soon after he died, his body froze in ice. It stayed frozen until 1991. That's when two hikers found him.
And, surprise. His body was in good shape! It was the first well-preserved body found in Europe from late-
Neolithic times.

He was given a name: Ötzi the Iceman. And scientists started studying him. What did they learn? He was
about 46 years old when he died. And he was about 5 feet and 2 inches and 110 pounds (157 centimeters
and 50 kilograms).

His clothes were made from hides and grass. And he had a copper ax, a bow, and arrows. The materials
used to make his tools came from places that were far away. So did people trade goods then? Probably so.
There's still a lot to learn from Ötzi!

Dictionary
hide (noun) the skin of a usually large animal
Neolithic (adjective) of or relating to the time during the Stone Age when people used stone
tools and began to grow crops, raise animals, and live together in large groups but did not read
or write
well-preserved (adjective) kept in good condition over a long period of time
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
Ötzi wore clothes and carried a bow and arrows.
Ötzi's body was well-preserved in ice when it was found.
Scientists think Ötzi was about 46 years old when he died.
People are learning from Ötzi the Iceman's body.

Question 2
The Article says:
It stayed frozen until 1991. That's when two hikers found him. And, surprise. His body was in
good shape! It was the first well-preserved body found in Europe from late-Neolithic times.
What does this show?
what made Ötzi die long ago
where Ötzi's body was found
why scientists can study Ötzi
what scientists found out about Ötzi

Question 3
Which means almost the same as well-preserved?
new
named
known
saved

Question 4
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Ötzi is the most interesting find ever because of what he has taught scientists.
Ötzi's body is the first body found from late-Neolithic times in Europe.
Ötzi's clothes were made from animal hides and grass, and he carried a copper ax.
Ötzi died on a mountain in Italy and was found in 1991 by two hikers.
 Question 5
Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows what Ötzi has taught scientists about late-Neolithic
times?
The materials used to make his tools came from places that were far away. So did people trade goods then?
Probably so.
He was given a name: Ötzi the Iceman. And scientists started studying him. What did they learn?
Soon after he died, his body froze in ice. It stayed frozen until 1991. That's when two hikers found him.
And, surprise. His body was in good shape! It was the first well-preserved body found in Europe from late-
Neolithic times.

Question 6
The Article says:
And he had a copper ax, a bow, and arrows. The materials used to make his tools came from
places that were far away.

Which means almost the same as materials?

pictures
flowers
colors
things

Question 7
Antonio wants to know more about Ötzi the Iceman. He should look __________.
at a newspaper
in a history book
at a map of Italy
in a math book

Question 8
Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?
People will try to make their own clothes from hides and grass.
Scientists will keep studying Ötzi in hopes of learning more.
Scientists will stop sharing what they find out about Ötzi.
Many more bodies from the late-Neolithic period will be found.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.

Ötzi should be left alone.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Who was Ötzi the Iceman? What have scientists learned about Ötzi? And what have they learned about the time
when he lived? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.
 Sniffing Out Extinction (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Trained dogs are now being used to help save endangered species. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Marina Makouskaya/iStock/Getty Images Plus

This dog can sniff out the scent of different animals on land and in water.

MELBOURNE, Australia (Achieve3000, December 4, 2019). Dogs can sniff things out. They have a
super sense of smell. It's 10,000 to 100,000 times stronger than a person's!

Sniffing dogs have helped police find missing people. Now some are helping conservationists. To find
what? Endangered species!

One species is the Baw Baw frog. It lives in Australia. Most of the frogs have been wiped out. How many
are left? Fewer than 1,200.

An Australian conservation group is helping to save them. They find the frogs. They breed them in zoos.
And they put them back in the wild with their tadpoles.

But finding Baw Baw frogs isn't easy. Here's why: They live in hard-to-get-to forests. And they hide under
mud. That's why two border collies are helping. The dogs learned the frogs' smell. And they sniff to find
them.

And it's not just Baw Baw frogs. Dogs are helping to find other animals, too. On the list: Silverspot
butterfly caterpillars. Snow leopards. And killer whales!

Information for this story came from VOA.

Video credit: Voice of America

Dictionary
breed (verb) to keep and take care of animals or plants in order to produce more animals or
plants of a particular kind
conservationist (noun) someone who works to protect animals, plants, and natural resources
or to prevent the loss or waste of natural resources: a person who is involved in conservation
 endangered (adjective) used to describe a type of animal or plant that has become very rare
and that could die out completely
species (noun) a group of animals or plants that are similar and can produce young animals or
plants

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
Baw Baw frogs live in forests in Australia.
Dogs use their noses to find endangered species.
Dogs have a better sense of smell than people do.
Most Baw Baw frogs have been wiped out.

Question 2
Think about the Article. Why does an Australian conservation group want to help the Baw Baw frogs?
Baw Baw frogs live in forests in Australia.
Baw Baw frogs hide under mud.
The group wants to send the Baw Baw frogs to zoos.
Fewer than 1,200 Baw Baw frogs are left.

Question 3
The Article says:
[Baw Baw frogs] live in hard-to-get-to forests. And they hide under mud.
This helps the reader to know __________.
why forests aren't good homes for frogs
how dogs are helping to find animals
how many frogs are left in the wild
why it's not easy to find Baw Baw frogs

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
missing and sad
stronger and faster
sniff and smell
find and study
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that Baw Baw frogs __________.
are often eaten by border collies
are much smaller than most other frogs
can't live outside of their home in the wild
don't want other animals to find them

Question 6
Which is not in the Article?
What Baw Baw frogs like to eat
How many Baw Baw frogs are in the wild
Where the Baw Baw frog hides
How people are helping Baw Baw frogs

Question 7
The Article says:
They have a super sense of smell. It's 10,000 to 100,000 times stronger than a person's!

Which means the opposite of super?

terrible
useless
important
troubling

Question 8
Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Baw Baw frogs are in danger of dying out
completely?
But finding Baw Baw frogs isn't easy. Here's why: They live in hard-to-get-to forests.
An Australian conservation group is helping to save them. They find the frogs. They breed them in zoos.
That's why two border collies are helping. The dogs learned the frogs' smell.
Most of the frogs have been wiped out. How many are left? Fewer than 1,200.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
All endangered species are worth saving.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Explain how trained dogs help to save endangered species, such as the Baw Baw frog. Use facts and details
from the Article in your answer.
 Social Media, Pompeii Style (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Today, people write their thoughts on websites like Facebook. Long ago, in the ancient city of Pompeii, people
scribbled their thoughts on the walls of homes and buildings. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Karl Allen Lugmayer/Shutterstock

More than 11,000 graffiti samples like this have been found at Pompeii.
POMPEII, Italy (Achieve3000, January 28, 2020). Today, people post messages on cyber walls. Facebook
fans know how that works. But get this: People in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii posted messages on
walls, too! Real walls, that is.
How were these messages written? Using charcoal or paint. Others were scratched into the walls of homes
and buildings.
And guess what? Many of those walls still stand today. Yes, 2,000 years later! Some of the messages are
still there, too. Here's why:
In 79 CE, there was a volcano. It destroyed Pompeii. The city was covered with stone and ash.
But under all of this? Pompeii kept standing!
Then came the mid-1700s. People started digging out Pompeii. And the messages were found. So, what did
Pompeians write about? Thoughts and feelings. News and tips.
Here are a few messages:
Health to you, Victoria…may you sneeze sweetly.
Stronius Stronnius knows nothing!
A copper pot went missing from my shop…
Forget sites like Facebook. This was social media, the Pompeii way.
Video credit: Achieve3000
 Dictionary
ancient (adjective) of, coming from, or belonging to a time that was long ago in the past
ash (noun) the soft gray powder that remains after something (such as a cigarette or wood)
has been completely burned and destroyed by fire
cyber (adjective) computer
volcano (noun) a mountain with a hole in the top or side that sometimes sends out rocks, ash,
lava, etc., in a sudden explosion (called an eruption)

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
People in Pompeii wrote messages on walls.
There was a message about Stronius Stronnius.
A volcano hit Pompeii in 79 CE.
Some messages were written in charcoal.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Pompeians wrote down their thoughts on walls.
In 79 CE, a volcano destroyed the city of Pompeii.
It's fun to read the messages on Pompeii's walls.
Some of Pompeii's messages were written in paint.

Question 3
The Article says:
In 79 CE, there was a volcano. It destroyed Pompeii. The city was covered with stone and ash.
But under all of this? Pompeii kept standing!

This helps the reader to know __________.

why Pompeii was saved for so long
why people wrote on Pompeii's walls
who first found the city of Pompeii
where Pompeii can be found

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
write and take
post and play
found and lost
destroyed and moved
Question 5
Camila wants to know more about the people who lived in Pompeii before it was covered in stone and ash. She
should look __________.
on a map showing where ancient cities are
in a book about the person who found Pompeii
at a TV show called Life in Old Pompeii
at a movie about the world's largest volcano

Question 6
The Article says:
So, what did Pompeians write about? Feelings and thoughts. News and tips.

Here are a few messages:

Health to you, Victoria…may you sneeze sweetly.

Stronius Stronnius knows nothing!

Which means almost the same as thoughts?

buildings
cartoons
games
ideas

Question 7
Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows why many buildings in Pompeii are still there today?
Today, people post messages on cyber walls. Facebook fans know how that works.
The city was covered with stone and ash. But under all of this? Pompeii kept standing!
So, what did Pompeians write about? Thoughts and feelings. News and tips.
People in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii posted messages on walls, too! Real walls, that is.

Question 8
Which is not in the Article?
When Pompeii was hit by a volcano
Where people post messages today
What messages were posted on Pompeii's walls
Who found out that a city was buried at Pompeii
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
People should always find a way to share their thoughts.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Tell what happened to Pompeii in 79 CE and what's been found thousands of years later. Use facts and details
from the Article in your answer.
 Soldier in the Wild (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

A Japanese soldier stayed hidden on Guam 28 years after World War II ended. When he finally returned to
Japan, he was given a hero's welcome. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: AP Photo

This photo of Shoichi Yokoi was taken shortly after his hiding ended in 1972.

TALOFOFO, Guam (Achieve3000, August 27, 2019). It was 1943. World War II (WWII) was going
strong. And Shoichi Yokoi was a soldier in the Imperial Japanese Army. He was stationed on Guam. It had
been taken over by Japan.

In 1944, U.S. soldiers came to free Guam. Yokoi was afraid for his life. So he fled to the jungles. And he
hid.

In 1945, Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces. WWII was over. But Yokoi didn't know. He stayed in
hiding for the next seven years.

And that's just the half of it.

In 1952, Yokoi learned that the war had ended. But he kept hiding for another 20 years! Why not come out?
It was about loyalty. Japanese soldiers were taught to fight to the death. Surrendering was shameful.

In 1972, Yokoi was found by two fishermen. He felt ashamed to return to Japan. But he got a hero's
welcome.

Video Credit: AP Archive

 Dictionary
loyalty (noun) a loyal feeling : a feeling of strong support for someone or something
shameful (adjective) very bad : bad enough to make someone ashamed
surrender (verb) to agree to stop fighting, hiding, resisting, etc., because you know that you
will not win or succeed

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. What made Yokoi flee into the jungle?
He thought U.S. soldiers would hurt him.
He heard that Japan had surrendered.
He was spotted by two fishermen.
He got a hero's welcome in Japan.

Question 2
What is this Article mainly about?
Yokoi was stationed on Guam during WWII.
Yokoi didn't know that Japan had surrendered.
Yokoi hid in the jungles of Guam for many years.
Yokoi felt ashamed to go back to Japan.

Question 3
Look at the events below. Think about the Article. Which must have happened last?
This question asks about when events happened. It does not ask where in the Article the events show up. Look
back at the Article for clues, like dates.
Yokoi fled to the jungles.
Yokoi heard the war had ended.
Yokoi became a hero in Japan.
Yokoi was stationed on Guam.

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
end and finish
hide and block
death and life
soldier and brother
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
Yokoi tried to go home in 1952.
Yokoi didn't feel good about going back to Japan.
Yokoi didn't want to become a Japanese soldier.
Yokoi fought with many American soldiers.

Question 6
The Article says:
Why not come out? It was about loyalty. Japanese soldiers were taught to fight to the death.
Surrendering was shameful.
Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.
that Yokoi didn't want to fight
why Yokoi stayed on Guam
why Japanese soldiers surrendered
that Yokoi was not happy with his country

Question 7
A soldier is someone who __________.
goes to Japan
lives on an island
fights in a war
lived long ago

Question 8
Which is not in the Article?
Why Yokoi stayed hidden after 1952
How Yokoi learned the war had ended
Why Yokoi fled into the jungle
How Yokoi felt about going home
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
All soldiers are heroes.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Who was Shoichi Yokoi? And why did he remain hidden on Guam until 1972? Use facts and details from the
Article in your answer.
 Teen Pilot Breaks World Record (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

In April 2019, Mason Andrews became the youngest pilot to fly alone around the world. Here's what Mason
wants kids to know. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Used with permission from Mason Andrews

Mason Andrews flew this plane around the world.

MONROE, Louisiana (Achieve3000, April 12, 2019). Mason Andrews studies flying in college. But he
already holds a flying record.

Mason flew around the world. And he did it alone! He's the youngest pilot to do that. He left Louisiana in
July 2018. His trip took 76 days. He returned in October. He was 18 years and 163 days old.

Mason's trip wasn't easy. He often flew in bad weather. Mason flew through a sandstorm. It was from
Egypt to Dubai. He also hit a monsoon. It was over the Bay of Bengal. There were bad typhoons, too. They
were in the Philippines. So Mason couldn't fly for three weeks.

Mason's trip also raised over $30,000. It was to help kids with special needs.

Now, Mason has some advice for kids. What is it?

"Anything is possible."

Video Credit: Taylor Yakowenko

Published on Oct 6, 2018
Edited for length

Dictionary
monsoon (noun) a wind that carries heavy rains to southern Asia
record (noun) something that has never been done before
sandstorm (noun) a desert storm in which strong winds blow clouds of sand
typhoon (noun) a very strong storm that forms in the western Pacific or Indian Oceans
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)
Question 1
Think about the Article. Since there were bad typhoons in the Philippines, then __________.
Mason flew around the world by himself.
Mason couldn't fly for three weeks.
Mason raised money to help kids.
Mason left Louisiana in July 2018.

Question 2
Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?
Mason Andrews is the youngest pilot to fly around the world.
Mason Andrews left Louisiana in July 2018.
Mason Andrews raised money for kids with special needs.
Mason Andrews studies flying in college.

Question 3
Which of these is a fact?
Advice from young people is usually the best advice for kids.
A monsoon is the scariest kind of storm to fly through.
Mason flew through a sandstorm between Egypt and Dubai.
Mason was brave to fly around the world when he was 18 years old.

Question 4
The Article says:
Mason's trip wasn't easy. He often flew in bad weather. Mason flew through a sandstorm. It was
from Egypt to Dubai.
Which word means almost the same as through?
Over
Under
On
In

Question 5
The Article says:
Mason flew through a sandstorm. It was from Egypt to Dubai. He also hit a monsoon. It was
over the Bay of Bengal. There were bad typhoons, too.
Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to understand __________.
How a sandstorm is different from a monsoon
Why it wasn't easy for Mason to fly around the world
How long it takes to fly from Egypt to Dubai
Why people like Mason love flying through storms
Question 6
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
It's probably easier to fly through a typhoon than a sandstorm.
Mason Andrews must have a lot of money.
It is unlikely that Mason Andrews will stop dreaming big.
Most flying records are very easy to break.

Question 7
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
Alone and fast
Easy and hard
Help and save
Hold and call

Question 8
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Mason's trip did more than break a flying
record?
Mason flew around the world. And he did it alone! He's the youngest pilot to do that.
Mason's trip also raised over $30,000. It was to help kids with special needs.
Mason Andrews studies flying in college. But he already holds a flying record.
Mason's trip wasn't easy. He often flew in bad weather.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
"Anything is possible."

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Describe Mason Andrews. What did he do? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.
 The Early-Late Debate (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Some people want later start times for middle schools and high schools. These people want start times pushed
back until 8 a.m. or later. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Tom Wang/Shutterstock.com

Too tired to learn? Some people think schools should start later.

SACRAMENTO, California (Achieve3000, October 30, 2019). Like to snooze? Here's good news! Some
schools are starting later.

Some examples? High schools in Seattle. They start at 8:45 a.m. Or later!

California passed a law. It sets new rules. High schools won't start before 8:30 a.m. Middle schools won't
start before 8 a.m.

Why? Because of research. Scientists studied how adolescents sleep. Most sleep best between 11 p.m. and
8 a.m. If teens get up early, they miss out on some good z's!

Students who don't get enough sleep can have health problems. They have trouble learning, too.

But some people think starting schools later isn't smart. It could be hard to have enough buses. Schools that
start later finish later, too. That leaves students with less free time. For what? Sports, jobs, and homework.
Don't forget about fun!

What about you? Wanna start school early? Or snoozzzzzzzzzzze?

Dictionary
adolescent (noun) a young person who is developing into an adult : a young person who is
going through adolescence
research (noun) careful study that is done to find and report new knowledge about something
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Teens sleep best between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. That's why __________.
sleep helps students learn and stay healthy
people think starting schools later isn't smart
California high schools won't start before 8:30 a.m.
scientists study about how adolescents sleep

Question 2
The Article talks mainly about __________.
staying healthy, so students learn better
doing research about when adolescents sleep best
starting schools later, so students get enough sleep
what students do in their free time

Question 3
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Getting enough sleep helps students learn.
Students in California will like going to school later.
California middle schools won't start before 8 a.m.
Teens sleep best between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Question 4
Which means almost the same as adolescent?
grandfather
woman
baby
teen

Question 5
The Article does not say __________.
what times adolescents get their best sleep
where later school start times are happening
why people think starting schools later isn't smart
what students think about schools starting later
Question 6
The Article says:
Students who don't get enough sleep can have health problems. They have trouble learning, too.

This passage helps the reader to know __________.

how important sleep is for students

what problems all students have
why it's hard for students to get enough sleep
how sleep research is done on students

Question 7
Which two words have opposite meanings?
law and rule
good and smart
trouble and problem
start and finish

Question 8
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that some schools believe the research about how
adolescents sleep best?
Students who don't get enough sleep can have health problems. They have trouble learning, too.
California passed a law. It sets new rules. High schools won't start before 8:30 a.m. Middle schools won't
start before 8 a.m.
But some people think starting schools later isn't smart. It could be hard to have enough buses. Schools that
start later finish later, too. That leaves students with less free time.
Scientists studied how adolescents sleep. Most sleep best between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Middle schools and high schools should start later.
.
Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Do you think middle schools and high schools should start later in the day? Why or why not?
Use facts and details from the Article to back up your answer.
 The Last Generation? (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Some people from the Pacific Islands are working to stop climate change. Rising seas could take away their
homeland. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: maloff/Shutterstock

This is the city of Majuro. It's in the Marshall Islands, a Pacific Island nation.

MAJURO, Marshall Islands (Achieve3000, November 7, 2019). There are 11 countries in the Pacific
Islands. But they all have one big problem. What is it? Climate change.

Climate change causes seas to rise. That's bad news for the islands. Here's why: They have low elevations.
They're harmed by rising seas.

But could the Pacific Islands be wiped out? Islands like Fiji and Samoa? It's possible. And some young
islanders wonder: Are they the last generation to live on those islands?

But the islanders are fighting the problem. Change can start with cargo ships. They bring the islands' goods.
But they add to the world's carbon emissions. This makes climate change worse.

So six Pacific Island countries teamed up. This was in 2019. They made plans. They'll cut carbon emissions
from shipping. By how much? About 40 percent by 2030. Then zero-carbon shipping by 2050. How will
they do it? By using carbon-free technology.

Sea levels are rising. But hopes aren't sinking in the Pacific Islands.

Video credit: United Nations

Dictionary
elevation (noun) the height of a place
emission (noun) something sent out or given off
generation (noun) a group of people born and living during the same time
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why did six Pacific Island countries get together to cut shipping emissions?
They think that sea levels will fall more.
They want to fight climate change.
They want to stop all shipping.
They know the oceans are not clean.

Question 2
The Article talks mainly about __________.
how the islands are making carbon-free technologies
how islanders will cut shipping emissions
why other countries are helping the islanders
why island countries put out so many emissions

Question 3
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
fighting and seeing
low and high
harmed and hurt
bad and terrible

Question 4
Which is not in the Article?
What some of the names are of the Pacific Islands
Why climate change is a threat to the islands
Which shipping emissions are causing problems
Why only some of the countries are working together

Question 5
The Article says:
[Six Pacific Island countries will] cut carbon emissions from shipping. By how much? About 40
percent by 2030. Then zero-carbon shipping by 2050.
This helps the reader to know __________.
that shipping to the islands will be stopped
how islanders plan to fight climate change
that zero emissions is not possible
how dangerous climate change is
Question 6
The Article says:
Climate change causes seas to rise. That's bad news for the islands. Here's why: They have low
elevations. They're harmed by rising seas.

Which means the opposite of rise?

fall
splash
darken
change

Question 7
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
the water in the ocean has too much trash
there can never be zero shipping emissions
some Pacific Islands may go underwater
Fiji is the biggest island in the Pacific Ocean

Question 8
Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells what might happen to some Pacific Islands?
There are 11 countries in the Pacific Islands. But they all have one big problem.
So six Pacific Island countries teamed up. This was in 2019. They made plans.
Change can start with cargo ships. They bring the islands' goods.
But could the Pacific Islands be wiped out? Islands like Fiji and Samoa? It's possible.

Step 4: Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Everyone should work together to stop climate change.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

How is climate change harming the Pacific Islands? What are some Pacific Island nations doing about this
problem? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

.
 The Truth About Dogs (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

A new exhibit teaches about dogs. What do you think of this quote by Josh Billings?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: AP/Richard Vogel

People at the exhibition can learn how dogs see.

LOS ANGELES, California (Achieve3000, May 5, 2019). Why do dogs smell things? Why do people and
dogs get along so well?

One exhibition has these answers and more. It's called "Dogs!" It opened in March 2019. Here's what it
teaches:

1. They have a pee-culiar interest.

Dogs sniff fire hydrants. Why? Dogs learn from smelling pee. They can tell if a place is safe.

2. They're doggone smart.

Dogs do more than smell to find things out. They know when something moves. They hear soft sounds, too.

3. They're heroic.

Dogs aren't just smart. They're heroes. There's a movie at the exhibition. It shows dogs saving people.

4. Yes, they love us, too.

People and dogs love each other. It's a mutual affection.

5. They go way back with humans.

Scientists don't know when dogs and people first met. But it was a long time ago.

Best friends fur-ever, it seems.

Information for this story came from AP.

 Dictionary
exhibition (noun) a show
mutual affection (noun) shared feeling of love

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Since dogs learn from smelling, then __________.
Dogs sniff fire hydrants to tell if a place is safe.
Dogs do more than smell to find things out.
Dogs know when something moves.
Dogs are able to hear soft sounds.

Question 2
Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.
Dogs can save people.
There is an exhibition that teaches about dogs.
Dogs can hear soft sounds.
Scientists don't know when dogs and people met.

Question 3
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
A movie shows dogs saving people.
Dogs can tell how safe an area is by sniffing.
Smart dogs are the best pets to have.
"Dogs!" opened in March 2019.

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
People and humans
Soft and loud
Heroic and brave
Answers and facts
Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
People were closer with dogs thousands of years ago.
As dogs spend more time with people, they will stop sniffing fire hydrants.
People like dogs partly because dogs are helpful.
Most people notice things in an area before their dogs do.

Question 6
The Article says:
Why do dogs smell things? Why do people and dogs get along so well? One exhibition has these
answers and more. It's called "Dogs!" It opened in March 2019.
What does this show?
When the dog exhibition comes to an end
Who set up the exhibition about dogs
What people might learn at an exhibition about dogs
Where the dog exhibition will be after March 2019

Question 7
The Article says:
Dogs do more than smell to find things out. They know when something moves. They hear soft
sounds, too.

Which must mean almost the same as know, as it is used above?

Sleep
Run
Cry
See

Question 8
Which passage from the Article best supports the idea that dogs have good senses other than a great sense of
smell?
Dogs sniff fire hydrants.
They hear soft sounds, too.
People and dogs love each other.
Dogs learn from smelling pee.
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
"A dog is the only thing on Earth that loves you more than he loves himself."

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Think about telling a friend about the "Dogs!" exhibition. What would you share? Use descriptive words from
the Article in your answer.
 Welcome to Batuu (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

It's been said that Disney parks are "the happiest" and "most magical" places on Earth. Now, the Disney parks in
California and Florida have added an attraction from "a galaxy far, far away"—Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. What
do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo Credit: Disney Parks

This starship can be found at Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

ORLANDO, Florida (Achieve3000, September 26, 2019). It's a Star Wars fan's dream! In 2019, Disney
opened Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. It's a new land. People who go feel like they're in a Star Wars story.

Galaxy's Edge is open at Disneyland. That's in California. There's one at Disney's Hollywood Studios, too.
That's in Florida.

Galaxy's Edge sits on 14 acres of land. And guess what? It's set up as a new planet! The planet is called
Batuu. It was built from the ground up. Some parts even look like real places. Take Batuu's forest. It's like
Arizona's Petrified Forest National Park.

What's Batuu like? It's a hot spot for traders and explorers. And it has a story. The workers are part of that
story. You can be, too. It's like being on an alien planet.

Video credit: Courtesy Disney, with music by Valeriano Chiaravalle/proudmusiclibrary.com

Dictionary
alien (adjective) from somewhere other than the planet Earth
explore (verb) to travel over or through (a place) in order to learn more about it or to find
something
trader (noun) a person who buys, sells, or exchanges goods
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?
Galaxy's Edge is in California and Florida.
Disney opened a new land called Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
The workers are part of the story at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
The planet at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is called Batuu.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Galaxy's Edge is open for people to see now.
The Star Wars story is the best part of Galaxy's Edge.
There are traders and explorers on Batuu.
The planet in Galaxy's Edge is named Batuu.

Question 3
The Article says:
It's a Star Wars fan's dream! In 2019, Disney opened Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. It's a new
land. People who go feel like they're in a Star Wars story.
This passage helps the reader to know that __________.
Galaxy's Edge will not be open for long
people have seen the land before
Star Wars fans will like Galaxy's Edge
Disney did not build the new land

Question 4
Which means almost the same as explore?
help
do
look
run

Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.
Disney thinks many people will go to Galaxy's Edge
Batuu is in Petrified Forest National Park
most people will go to Galaxy's Edge in California
the next Star Wars movie will be in Batuu
Question 6
Anna Maria wants to know what an acre is. She could find this out by using a __________.
globe
dictionary
calendar
newspaper

Question 7
The Article says:
The planet is called Batuu. It was built from the ground up. Some parts even look like real
places.

Which means almost the same as built?

heard
found
made
tried

Question 8
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Batuu is not like any place you've been to
before?
In 2019, Disney opened Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
Some parts even look like real places.
Galaxy's Edge is open at Disneyland.
It's like being on an alien planet.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
Disney parks are "the happiest" and "most magical" places in the galaxy.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Imagine that you are telling a friend about Disney's new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in California and Florida.
What would you say? Use describing words and phrases from the Article in your answer.
 Women Adventurers (250L)
Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

Centuries ago, women were expected to stay home and raise families. But some brave women chose to take off
on amazing adventures around the world. What do you think?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Left to right: Cristoforo Dall'Acqua, Wellcome Collection, Library of Congress
Left to right: Jeanne Baret, the first woman to sail around the globe. Lady Hester Stanhope, who led an archaeological dig. And Nellie
Bly, who traveled around the world in 72 days.

RED BANK, New Jersey (Achieve3000, January 31, 2020). These days, women go to space. They sail
around the world. They have many adventures. But not hundreds of years ago. Back then, women were
expected to stay home. Well these three women had different ideas.
Jeanne Baret (1740-1807): Baret was a French scientist. And she was the first woman to sail around the
world! In 1766, she wanted to set sail with other scientists. But they were all men. Women weren't allowed
to travel on French navy ships. So, guess what? Baret disguised herself as a man. And she sailed away.
Lady Hester Stanhope (1776-1839): Stanhope was from England. She traveled throughout the Middle
East by herself. And that's not all. She led an archaeological dig there. She was the first woman to do this.
Nellie Bly (1864-1922): Bly was a journalist. In 1887, she wrote a big story. About what? Hidden problems
at a mental hospital. The story made Bly well-known. It also led the way for other women journalists. And
guess what? Two years later, Bly set a world record. She traveled around the world in 72 days!

Dictionary
archaeology (noun) a science that deals with past human life and activities by studying the
bones, tools, etc., of ancient people
disguise (verb) to change the usual appearance, sound, taste, etc., of (someone or something)
so that people will not recognize that person or thing
journalism (noun) the activity or job of collecting, writing, and editing news stories for
newspapers, magazines, television, or radio
mental (adjective) of or relating to the mind
navy (noun) the part of a country's military forces that fights at sea using ships, submarines,
airplanes, etc.
Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1
Think about the Article. Which took place last?
This question asks about when events happened. It does not ask where in the Article the events show up. Look
back at the Article for clues, like dates.
A woman dressed as a man and sailed around the world.
A woman set sail on a French navy ship in 1766.
A woman traveled through the Middle East by herself.
A woman traveled around the world in 72 days.

Question 2
Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.
that women today go into space and sail around the world
that Nellie Bly's story about a hospital made her well-known
that some women in history went on unexpected adventures
that French scientists traveled all around the world in 1766

Question 3
The Article says:
Bly was a journalist. In 1887, she wrote a big story. About what? Hidden problems at a mental
hospital. The story made Bly well-known. It also led the way for other women journalists.
This helps the reader to know __________.
that Nellie Bly worked at a hospital
that journalists are all women
that all hospitals have problems
that Nellie Bly helped other women

Question 4
Which of these is an opinion?
An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.
Jeanne Baret was a scientist who sailed around the world.
Nellie Bly set a record by traveling around the world in 72 days.
It was not a good idea for Jeanne Baret to disguise herself as a man.
Lady Stanhope traveled throughout the Middle East by herself.
Question 5
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Which two words have almost the same meaning?
Only some of these words are used in the Article.
many and few
guess and know
world and Earth
dig and fill

Question 6
Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how women live today?
These days, women go to space. They sail around the world.
Women weren't allowed to travel on French navy ships.
In 1887, she wrote a big story. About what? Hidden problems at a mental hospital.
But not hundreds of years ago. Back then, women were expected to stay home.

Question 7
The Article says:
These days, women go to space. They sail around the world. They have many adventures. But
not hundreds of years ago. Back then, women were expected to stay home.

In this passage, the word adventure means __________.

a quiet or sleepy experience
a sad experience
a fun or exciting experience
a boring experience

Question 8
The Article does not say __________.
why Jeanne Baret disguised herself as a man
how long it took Nellie Bly to set a world record
how long it took Baret to sail around the world
what Nellie Bly wrote her six-part report about
Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.
People should live life the way they want to, not how they're expected to.

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

What's one word that describes Jeanne Baret, Lady Hester Stanhope, and Nellie Bly? What actions by these
women back up your answer? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.
 Lexile 250

ANSWER KEY
 A Musical Pioneer
Answer key
Math
• Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?

D Pitse leads an orchestra and choir.

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

B The music of African composers sounds good.

Question 3

The Article says:

But Pitse's shows are different. The music is by African composers. Pitse hopes to bring African classical music to the world.

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.

A what kind of music Pitse's shows have.

Question 4

Which two words have opposite meanings?

A first and last

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

D Pitse wants to help other people

Question 6

Which is not in the Article?

A Why Pitse likes Beethoven

Question 7

The Article says:

At classical music concerts, you often hear music written long ago. The pieces are by European composers. Beethoven is one.

Which means almost the same as composer?

B writer
Question 8

Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how Pitse's concerts are different from most concerts?

A The music is by African composers. Pitse hopes to bring African classical music to the world.
Ancient Lines in the Sand
Answer key

Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

C The Nazca Lines are drawings in the desert sand.

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

C It's very interesting to study the Nazca Lines.

Question 3

The Article says:

You look out the window. What's below? Drawings on the ground! They're called geoglyphs. They're in the desert sands. They're
of animals, plants, and more.
This helps the reader to know __________.

A what the Nazca Lines look like

Question 4

Which two words have opposite meanings?

B before and after

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C it's hard to see the animal shapes from the ground

Question 6

Which is not in the Article?

D Why researchers made the lines

Question 7

The Article says:

How did they make them? By taking away some of the dark rocks that covered the ground. This showed the lighter-colored sand
underneath.

Which means almost the same as rocks?

D stones
Question 8

Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how the Nazca Lines were made?

A By taking away some of the dark rocks that covered the ground. This showed the lighter-colored sand underneath.
Animated Favorites Get Real
Answer key

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why do parents take their kids to see the remakes?

B They loved the animated movies growing up.

Question 2
What is this Article mainly about?

B People love the new live-action remakes of animated movies.

Question 3
Which is not in the Article?

C Which animated characters people like

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?

C hit and winner

Question 5
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

D kids like movies with characters like them

Question 6
The Article says:
Live-action remakes can make lots of money. They have a winning formula: Big stars. Special effects. Stories fans
love. Characters who seem like old friends. It's box office gold!

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.

D why moviemakers remake animated movies

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why a parent might go and see today's live-action movies?

D The power of nostalgia helps. Adults watched these movies growing up. They loved them. So they like taking their kids to see them.
Question 8
The Article says:
The power of nostalgia helps. Adults watched these movies growing up. They loved them.

Which means almost the same as watched?

D saw
Bubble Tea Is Blowing Up
Answer key

Question 1

What is the main idea of this Article?

C. People all around the world love bubble tea.

Question 2

Which word means almost the same as treat, as it is used in the Article?

C. Goody

Question 3

Look at the events below. Think about the Article. Which took place first?

B. Bubble tea was made in Taiwan.

Question 4

Which of these is an opinion?

C. Chocolate pudding is the tastiest flavor.

Question 5

Rosa wants to know what tapioca is. How can she find out? She could use a __________.

A. Dictionary

Question 6

The Article says:

It's like a drink and a snack. Many shops sell it. They're opening all over. Bubble tea starts with milk tea. Then, treats
are added.

Which must mean almost the same as snack, as it is used above?

D. Food

Question 7

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that bubble tea shops can be fun places to go?

C. Many kids go there to hang out with friends.

Question 8

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

D. More and more people like to drink bubble tea.

Cooking Up Native Traditions
Answer key

Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

D Sherman is bringing back Native American foods.

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

D Sherman's recipes taste great.

Question 3

The Article says:

The foods given to many Native Americans, like those Sherman ate as a kid, aren't healthy. This causes health
problems. Diabetes is one. But not Native foods. They are good for people.

This helps the reader to know __________.

D why Sherman is bringing back Native foods

Question 4

Which two words have opposite meanings?

C before and after

Question 5

Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?

C More people will learn about Native foods.

Question 6

Which is not in the Article?

A Why it's hard to find wild rice

Question 7

The Article says:

So Sherman learned about his culture. In the past, many Native American food traditions were lost. And Native food
sources, like bison, were nearly wiped out.

Which means the opposite of lost?

B found
Question 8

Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows what kinds of foods Sherman ate when he was young?

C As a kid, he ate foods given to his family by the U.S. government. Like what? Canned beans. Boxed rice.
Defying Gravity
Answer key

Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

B Biles never gave up and became a great gymnast.

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

A Biles wasn't a good gymnast in 2011.

Question 3

The Article says:

But in 2011, she didn't make the U.S. team. This made her sad. Did she give up? No way! And in 2013, she made the
team.

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know that __________.

C problems make Biles try harder

Question 4

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

D greatest and best

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

D Biles doesn't like to give up

Question 6

Which is not in the Article?

B Where does Biles live

Question 7

The Article says:

But in 2011, she didn't make the U.S. team. This made her sad. Did she give up? No way! And in 2013, she made the
team.

Which means almost the same as sad?

C unhappy
Question 8

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Biles' life as a child was sometimes hard?

D [Biles'] early life wasn't easy. Her parents couldn't care for her. So she lived in foster care.
Give Me S'more!
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Why do some people think Girl Scouts made s'mores first?

Press enter to interact with the item, and press tab button or down arrow until reaching the Submit button once the item is selected
B A Girl Scouts manual talked about s'mores.
Question 2

Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.

C How to make a s'more

Question 3
Which word means almost the same as manual, as it is used in the Article?

A Guide
Question 4

Which is not in the Article?

C Graham crackers were first made in the late 1800s.

Question 5

The Article says:

What if you don't have a campfire? You can make a s'more in the oven or microwave.

This helps the reader to know __________.

D That there are different ways to make s'mores

Question 6

Which two words have opposite meanings?

B Less and more

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells how milk chocolate is made?

B The chocolatey? That's milk chocolate. Milk chocolate has been around since 1875. What's in it? Chocolate, sugar, and milk.
Question 8

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C S'mores are easy to make.

Global Game Fame
Answer key

Question 1

What is the main idea of this Article?

D Important video games go into a hall of fame every year.

Question 2

Which word means almost the same as plumber, as it is used in the Article?

D Fixer
Question 3

Which of these is an opinion?

B Super Mario Kart is more fun than Microsoft Solitaire.

Question 4

Think about the Article. How is Microsoft Solitaire different from Super Mario Kart?

D Solitaire taught players how to use a mouse.

Question 5

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

A Drawing and picture

Question 6

The Article says:

[The World Video Game Hall of Fame] is in New York. It opened in 2015. It's for the best and most important video
games. Some are from the past. But they stood the test of time.

Why is this in the Article? It shows ___________.

A What the hall of fame is for

Question 7

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells why a game was chosen for the hall of fame?

D Take Colossal Cave Adventure. It's from 1976. It helped start computer gaming.
Question 8

Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?

B More games will go into the hall of fame next year.

Good, Bad, or Ugly?
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Why are some companies selling ugly produce?

D They do not want the produce wasted.

Question 2

Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

D Some companies are selling ugly produce.

Question 3

Which of these is a fact?

C Some companies sell ugly fruits and vegetables.

Question 4

Which word means almost the same as produce, as it is used in the Article?

A Food
Question 5

The author probably wrote this Article in order to __________.

B Explain why some companies sell ugly produce

Question 6

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why some companies sell ugly produce?

B Food waste is a big problem, they say. About 30 percent of food in the U.S. is wasted.
Question 7

Which two words have almost the same meaning, as they're used in the Article?

C Produce and food

Question 8

Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?

C People in the U.S. will keep wasting food.

Katherine the Great
Answer key

Question 1
Think about the Article. Why did John Glenn ask Katherine Johnson to check some math?

C Glenn trusted Johnson's work.

Question 2
What is the main idea of this Article?

A Katherine Johnson is a hero for her work at NASA.

Question 3
Think about the Article. Which must have taken place first?

C Katherine Johnson got a job at NASA.

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?

A Anything and nothing

Question 5
Kay wants to know more about going into space. She should look __________.

B In a book about different NASA trips

Question 6
Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

D Some important people believed in Katherine Johnson.

Question 7
Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Katherine Johnson does more than math?

B She wrote an autobiography.

Question 8
The Article says:
Johnson's book is for young readers. She wants kids to believe they can do anything.
Which must mean almost the opposite of young, as it is used above?

A Old
Otzi the Iceman
Answer key

Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

D People are learning from Ötzi the Iceman's body.

Question 2

The Article says:

It stayed frozen until 1991. That's when two hikers found him. And, surprise. His body was in good shape! It was the
first well-preserved body found in Europe from late-Neolithic times.

What does this show?

C why scientists can study Ötzi

Question 3

Which means almost the same as well-preserved?

D saved
Question 4

Which of these is an opinion?

A Ötzi is the most interesting find ever because of what he has taught scientists.
Question 5

Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows what Ötzi has taught scientists about late-Neolithic times?

A The materials used to make his tools came from places that were far away. So did people trade goods then? Probably so.
Question 6

The Article says:

And he had a copper ax, a bow, and arrows. The materials used to make his tools came from places that were far
away.

Which means almost the same as materials?

D things
Question 7

Antonio wants to know more about Ötzi the Iceman. He should look __________.

B in a history book
Question 8

Think about the Article. Which is most likely to happen?

B Scientists will keep studying Ötzi in hopes of learning more.

 Sniffing Out Extinction
Answer key
Math
• Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?

B Dogs use their noses to find endangered species.

Question 2

Think about the Article. Why does an Australian conservation group want to help the Baw Baw frogs?

D Fewer than 1,200 Baw Baw frogs are left.

Question 3

The Article says:

[Baw Baw frogs] live in hard-to-get-to forests. And they hide under mud.

This helps the reader to know __________.

D why it's not easy to find Baw Baw frogs

Question 4
Which two words have almost the same meaning?

C sniff and smell

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that Baw Baw frogs __________.

D don't want other animals to find them

Question 6

Which is not in the Article?

A What Baw Baw frogs like to eat

Question 7

The Article says:

They have a super sense of smell. It's 10,000 to 100,000 times stronger than a person's!

Which means the opposite of super?

A terrible

Question 8

Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Baw Baw frogs are in danger of dying out completely?

D Most of the frogs have been wiped out. How many are left? Fewer than 1,200.
Social Media, Pompeii Style
Answer key

Question 1
What is this Article mainly about?

A People in Pompeii wrote messages on walls.

Question 2
Which of these is an opinion?

C It's fun to read the messages on Pompeii's walls.

Question 3
The Article says:
In 79 CE, there was a volcano. It destroyed Pompeii. The city was covered with stone and ash. But under all of this?
Pompeii kept standing!

This helps the reader to know __________.

Awhy Pompeii was saved for so long

Question 4
Which two words have opposite meanings?

C found and lost

Question 5
Camila wants to know more about the people who lived in Pompeii before it was covered in stone and ash. She should look
__________.

C at a TV show called Life in Old Pompeii

Question 6
The Article says:
So, what did Pompeians write about? Feelings and thoughts. News and tips.

Here are a few messages:

Health to you, Victoria…may you sneeze sweetly.

Stronius Stronnius knows nothing!

Which means almost the same as thoughts?

D ideas
Question 7
Read these passages from the Article. Which one shows why many buildings in Pompeii are still there today?

B The city was covered with stone and ash. But under all of this? Pompeii kept standing!

Question 8
Which is not in the Article?

D Who found out that a city was buried at Pompei

Soldier in the Wild
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. What made Yokoi flee into the jungle?

A He thought U.S. soldiers would hurt him.

Question 2

What is this Article mainly about?

C Yokoi hid in the jungles of Guam for many years.

Question 3

Look at the events below. Think about the Article. Which must have happened last?

C Yokoi became a hero in Japan.

Question 4

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

A end and finish

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

B Yokoi didn't feel good about going back to Japan.

Question 6

The Article says:

Why not come out? It was about loyalty. Japanese soldiers were taught to fight to the death. Surrendering was
shameful.

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.

B why Yokoi stayed on Guam

Question 7
A soldier is someone who __________.

C fights in a war
Question 8

Which is not in the Article?

B How Yokoi learned the war had ended

Teen Pilot Breaks World Record
Answer key

• Stretch Activity
Question 1

Think about the Article. Since there were bad typhoons in the Philippines, then __________.

B Mason couldn't fly for three weeks.

Question 2

Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

A Mason Andrews is the youngest pilot to fly around the world.

Question 3

Which of these is a fact?

C Mason flew through a sandstorm between Egypt and Dubai.

Question 4

The Article says:

Mason's trip wasn't easy. He often flew in bad weather. Mason flew through a sandstorm. It was from Egypt to Dubai.

Which word means almost the same as through?

D In
Question 5

The Article says:

Mason flew through a sandstorm. It was from Egypt to Dubai. He also hit a monsoon. It was over the Bay of Bengal.
There were bad typhoons, too.

Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to understand __________.

B Why it wasn't easy for Mason to fly around the world

Question 6

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C It is unlikely that Mason Andrews will stop dreaming big.

Question 7

Which two words have opposite meanings?

B Easy and hard

Question 8

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Mason's trip did more than break a flying record?

B Mason's trip also raised over $30,000. It was to help kids with special needs.
The Early-Late Debate
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Teens sleep best between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. That's why __________.

C California high schools won't start before 8:30 a.m.

Question 2

The Article talks mainly about __________.

C starting schools later, so students get enough sleep

Question 3

Which of these is an opinion?

B Students in California will like going to school later.

Question 4

Which means almost the same as adolescent?

D teen
Question 5

The Article does not say __________.

D what students think about schools starting later

Question 6

The Article says:

Students who don't get enough sleep can have health problems. They have trouble learning, too.

This passage helps the reader to know __________.

A how important sleep is for students
Question 7

Which two words have opposite meanings?

D start and finish

Question 8

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that some schools believe the research about how adolescents sleep best?

B California passed a law. It sets new rules. High schools won't start before 8:30 a.m. Middle schools won't start before 8 a.m.
The Last Generation?
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Why did six Pacific Island countries get together to cut shipping emissions?

B They want to fight climate change.

Question 2

The Article talks mainly about __________.

B how islanders will cut shipping emissions

Question 3

Which two words have opposite meanings?

B low and high

Question 4

Which is not in the Article?

D Why only some of the countries are working together

Question 5

The Article says:

[Six Pacific Island countries will] cut carbon emissions from shipping. By how much? About 40 percent by 2030.
Then zero-carbon shipping by 2050.

This helps the reader to know __________.

B how islanders plan to fight climate change

Question 6

The Article says:

Climate change causes seas to rise. That's bad news for the islands. Here's why: They have low elevations. They're
harmed by rising seas.

Which means the opposite of rise?

A fall
Question 7

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C some Pacific Islands may go underwater

Question 8

Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells what might happen to some Pacific Islands?

D But could the Pacific Islands be wiped out? Islands like Fiji and Samoa? It's possible.
The Truth About Dogs
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Since dogs learn from smelling, then __________.

A Dogs sniff fire hydrants to tell if a place is safe.

Question 2

Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.

B There is an exhibition that teaches about dogs.

Question 3

Which of these is an opinion?

C Smart dogs are the best pets to have.

Question 4

Which two words have opposite meanings?

B Soft and loud

Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C People like dogs partly because dogs are helpful.

Question 6

The Article says:

Why do dogs smell things? Why do people and dogs get along so well? One exhibition has these answers and
more. It's called "Dogs!" It opened in March 2019.

What does this show?

C What people might learn at an exhibition about dogs

Question 7

The Article says:

Dogs do more than smell to find things out. They know when something moves. They hear soft sounds, too.

Which must mean almost the same as know, as it is used above?

D See
Question 8

Which passage from the Article best supports the idea that dogs have good senses other than a great sense of smell?

B They hear soft sounds, too.

Welcome to Batuu
Answer key

Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

B Disney opened a new land called Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

B The Star Wars story is the best part of Galaxy's Edge.

Question 3

The Article says:

It's a Star Wars fan's dream! In 2019, Disney opened Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. It's a new land. People who go feel
like they're in a Star Wars story.

This passage helps the reader to know that __________.

C Star Wars fans will like Galaxy's Edge

Question 4

Which means almost the same as explore?

C look
Question 5

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

A Disney thinks many people will go to Galaxy's Edge

Question 6

Anna Maria wants to know what an acre is. She could find this out by using a __________.

B dictionary
Question 7

The Article says:

The planet is called Batuu. It was built from the ground up. Some parts even look like real places.

Which means almost the same as built?

C made
Question 8

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that Batuu is not like any place you've been to before?

D It's like being on an alien planet.

Women Adventurers
Answer key

Question 1

Think about the Article. Which took place last?

D A woman traveled around the world in 72 days.

Question 2

Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to tell __________.

C that some women in history went on unexpected adventures

Question 3

The Article says:

Bly was a journalist. In 1887, she wrote a big story. About what? Hidden problems at a mental hospital. The story
made Bly well-known. It also led the way for other women journalists.

This helps the reader to know __________.

D that Nellie Bly helped other women

Question 4

Which of these is an opinion?

C It was not a good idea for Jeanne Baret to disguise herself as a man.
Question 5

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

C world and Earth

Question 6

Read these passages from the Article. Which one tells how women live today?

A These days, women go to space. They sail around the world.

Question 7

The Article says:

These days, women go to space. They sail around the world. They have many adventures. But not hundreds of
years ago. Back then, women were expected to stay home.

In this passage, the word adventure means __________.

C a fun or exciting experience

Question 8

The Article does not say __________.

C how long it took Baret to sail around the world