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Comprehension Questions – The Family Under the Bridge

by Natalie Savage Carlson

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts: 3.0

Armand, an old man living on the streets of Paris, relishes his solitary life in the beautiful city. Then one day just before Christmas, Armand returns to his favorite spot beneath the bridge to find three cold and hungry children. Although he has no interest in children, Armand soon finds himself caring for the small family. It does not take Armand very long to realize that he must do whatever it takes to get them a real home. 

Vocabulary

Writing Prompts

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What is the setting of this book? Paris, France in December p.1
  2. Describe the main character.  An older man named Armand who chooses to live on the street and desires no riches p.1
  3. What does Armand compare the children to? Starlings p.4

Chapter 2

  1. Why is Armand worried that the children will steal his heart? He doesn’t want to have feelings of love for them p.15
  2. Why was the children’s mother upset when she saw Armand sharing space with her children? She was surprised to see him living in the same space as her children p.13
  3. Why was Armand set on taking the children to see Father Christmas? Their mother wouldn’t approve of it p.18

Chapter 3

  1. Why was Armand describing the food the children saw with disgusting attributes? He didn’t want them to desire it p.24
  2. How did Father Christmas respond when the children told him they wanted a house to live in for Christmas? He was shocked and said his donkey couldn’t carry it p.27
  3. Why didn’t the children and Armand belong in that store? It was a fancy store and only with people with money could buy something in it p.28

Chapter 4

  1. Find a simile on page 31. They sang like three little birds on a branch in the springtime.
  2. How did Armand purchase food for the children to eat? He told them to sing then asked for alms and people gave him money p.31
  3. On page 33, the author states that the man at the pancake stand waited until Armand showed him his money before he poured the batter, why? To make sure Armand could pay for the pancakes
  4. How did the children’s mom react when she found out the children sang for money? She was very upset and told the children they couldn’t see Armand anymore p.37

Chapter 5

  1. Why did Armand take the children away from the bridge? Two women saw the children and were going to take them away and put their mama in jail p.43
  2. Where did Armand take the children? To his gypsy friend, Mireli p.49
  3. What persuaded the children to ask Father Christmas for a house on wheels? The children saw their new friend’s home and realized Father Christmas could pull it with his donkey p.51

Chapter 6

  1. Describe the children’s mama’s reaction to staying in the gypsy camp. She didn’t like it at first since she doesn’t like gypsies, but then learned to appreciate it p.57
  2. What did Tinka teach Suzy? Symbols that gypsies read and use p.59
  3. Why did Suzy want Armand to go see Father Christmas? To tell Father Christmas where they live now and what they want for Christmas p.62

Chapter 7

  1. How did the Calcets spend Christmas Eve? At a holiday party on the quay by their bridge and going to midnight mass p.65
  2. Why did Armand lie to the children about their home? Because he didn’t want to see them disappointed p.68
  3. How can you tell that Armand hasn’t prayed for a long time? He’d forgotten how p.70

Chapter 8

  1. Why did the gypsies pack up their camp and prepare to leave? A police officer was looking for Nikki, one of the gypsies p.77
  2. Why was the police officer looking for Nikki? He was bringing Nikki’s lost wallet to him p.83
  3. How did Paul inspire Armand? Paul tried to get a job to help the family but couldn’t, and Armand realized he should be the one getting the job p. 84

Chapter 9

  1. Describe the ending.  Do you agree or disagree with it? Why? Listen to your child’s answers
  2. How did Armand change during the book? He went from not wanting to work or be responsible for anything to wanting to work so he could be responsible for his new family p.97

Comprehension Questions – Junie B., First Grader: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! (P.S. So Does May)

Junie B., First Grader: Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! (P.S. So Does May)

by Barbara Park

Grades 1-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL M; AR pts. 1

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What happened to May’s sweater? Junie B. pulled on it and the sleeve stretched to the floor p.6
  2. What would the girls not be able to do if they had another fight? Sing in the Holiday Sing Along p.12
  3. How did Junie B. shake hands with May? She picked up her sleeve and shook it p.13

Chapter 2

  1. What was in the dusty box? Elf clothes p.17
  2. What song was Junie B., class going to lead? Jingle Bells p.21
  3. Why didn’t May tell on Junie B. when she sang the wrong words? She wanted to sing in the sing along p.23

Chapter 3

  1. Who did Junie B. sit by during the sing along? May p.25
  2. Why was May upset with Junie B.’s version of Jingle Bells? The chorus was about her p.29
  3. What did Mr. Scary decide to do since there wasn’t time to send the girls to the principal’s office? Write a note to their parents p.31

Chapter 4

  1. Why does Junie B. dislike sitting in the last seat in the last row? She gets last picks since Mr. Scary begins in the front of the classroom p.37
  2. Why did Junie B. choose for Secret Santa? May p.39
  3. What could be a positive outcome for Junie B. choosing May? Listen to your child’s answer p.

Chapter 5

  1. What did Mr. Scary say to Junie B. to encourage her? Told her it was the season of goodwill and that she’ll feel good inside for giving to May p.42
  2. Why were the kids excited to go the Holiday Gift Shop? They could preview gifts they wanted to get for their families and Secret Santa p.43
  3. What did Roger continue to ask Ellen Elf about? The money her child stole from him p.44

Chapter 6

  1. List three things Junie B. wanted to buy at the Gift Shop? Crayons, Squeeze a Burp, tattoos, glow in the dark barrettes p.49
  2. Why did May tell Junie B. that she shouldn’t buy any gifts? The gifts should be for her family and Secret Santa p.50

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Junie B.’s grandpa laugh when she said, “Do the math”? he thought she was being cute and funny p.62
  2. Why did Junie B. ask her grandpa for money? So she could buy the Squeeze a Burp p.64
  3. Why was Junie B. sad when she realized she needed to get a gift for May? She didn’t have enough money p.68

Chapter 8

  1. Why was Junie B. stressed out at the beginning of this chapter? Her parents told her they wouldn’t give her more money p.70
  2. Why didn’t May give Junie B. money? Her father said to save the money for an emergency and to not let friends borrow money p.74
  3. How is Room One going to hand out their Secret Santa gifts? They decorated their own sacks, Mr. Scary will arrange them all on the back table, and after the gift shop the kids will put them in p.79
  4. What did Junie B. want to give May for the gift? Coal p.80

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Junie B. hide her money in her shoe? So it wouldn’t get stolen p.86
  2. Why was May so happy? She was excited for Secret Santa day and wasn’t going to let Junie B. ruin it p.89
  3. Why was Junie B. being so secretive when it was time to put the gifts in the bags? She didn’t want May to see her put her baggie of coal into her gift bag from her backpack p.95

Chapter 10

  1. Why was May so excited to do the Secret Santa? She felt like she had a best friend p.98
  2. Why was she excited about that? Because she didn’t have a best friend p.99
  3. What gift do you think Junie B. gave to May? Listen to your child’s answer p.103

Chapter 11

  1. How did May respond when she looked into her bag? She got teary and showed Mr. Scary p.108
  2. List two things May did to show Junie B. she was a friend. Let Junie B. use the Squeeze a Burp and called her Junie B. p115
  3. Why was Junie B. happy at the end of the book? She had been a good friend to May p.117

Comprehension Questions – Junie B., First Grader: BOO…and I MEAN IT!

Junie B., First Grader: BOO...and I MEAN IT!

by Barbara Park

Grade 1-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL M; AR pts.1

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What is Junie B. scared of? Halloween p.2
  2. Why is she scared of Halloween? Paulie Allen Puffer told her 5 secrets about Halloween and if she told someone those secrets or a witch will turn her head into a wart. p.3
  3. Why did Mr. Scary give May a note? To tell her parents she had tattled P.9

Chapter 2

  1. Who did Junie B. tell the secrets to? Philip Johnny Bob p.22
  2. Why did Junie B. suggest that her grandma stay inside on Halloween? Bats like fluffy hair p.19
  3. Why did Junie B. want to take a nap? So she wouldn’t have to go to the Halloween store p.21

Chapter 3

  1. What did Junie B. decide to be for Halloween? Squirty the Clown p.32
  2. Why did she decide to be Squirty the Clown? To scare the witch and other things she was scared of p.30
  3. How was Junie B. feeling about Halloween at the end of the chapter? She was feeling happy p.35

Chapter 4

  1. Why didn’t Junie B. want to go in the store? She was scared p.37
  2. Did Junie B. find a Squirty costume? No p.42
  3. What costume was Junie B.’s mom going to choose for her? Little Bo Peep p.45

Chapter 5

  1. What helped Junie B. look like Squirty the Clown? Clothes, make-up, red nose p.51
  2. Why was Junie B. sad she didn’t have a seltzer bottle? She wanted one to spray and scare off monsters p.53
  3. Why did Junie B. call herself Screamy? She could scream to scare people p.56

Chapter 6

  1. Why did the fisherman drop an apple down Junie B.’s pants? Because she said “trick or fruit” p.60
  2. What did Mrs. Morty give Ollie? Rice crispy treat p.62
  3. How can saying thank you be a fib? If you don’t like what you are receiving p.63

Chapter 7

  1. What did the Cinderella and Fairy Godmother tell Junie B.? that she wasn’t scary p.67
  2. Why did Junie B. hide behind a bush? She thought she wasn’t scary and a skeleton and witch came by p.69
  3. How do you know they weren’t scary? They were kids dressed up p.71

Chapter 8

  1. How did Junie B. feel once trick or treating was over? Relieved p.74
  2. How did she feed Philip the peanut? She taped the peanut to his trunk p.77
  3. Why didn’t Junie B. clean off her face before going to bed? She was too tired p.78

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Junie B.’s dad yell when he went into Junie B.’s room? She was wearing still wearing her clown make-up p.82
  2. What made Junie B.’s make-up smudgy? She tried to wipe it off with a tissue p.83
  3. How did Junie B. end up with 100% candy? Her parents ate the healthy snacks p.84

Comprehension Questions – Junie B., First Grader Shipwrecked

Junie B., First Grader Shipwrecked

by Barbara Park

Grades 1-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL M; AR pts. 1.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What happened in Junie B.’s class that morning? Someone threw up p.3
  2. What did the custodian use to clean it up? A powder named vomit absorbent p.7
  3. Why did Junie B. and her classmates hold their noses all morning? They didn’t want to breathe in the germs from the throw up p.9

Chapter 2

  1. Why did Herb finally let go of his nose? He couldn’t taste his food p.14
  2. Why did Junie B. blow her nose air on May? To get rid of the germs in her nose p.14
  3. How did the children feel when they went out to recess? Happy they didn’t have to plug their noses p.16

Chapter 3

  1. Who came to Junie B.’s class and taught them about germs? Mrs. Weller the nurse p.19
  2. What are the four rules she taught the children? 1. Do not share straws, glasses, forks or spoons; 2. Do not share food or drinks; 3. Keep your hands away from your mouth, eyes, and nose; 4. Wash your hands often with soap and water p.24
  3. What are the children going to do for Parents’ Night? Put on a play about Christopher Columbus p.29

Chapter 4

  1. What did Junie B.’s mom say that helped her realize the play could be fun? That Junie B. could be a star p.33
  2. Why was Junie B. so anxious to look up facts on Christopher Columbus? So she could choose the part she wanted in the play p.34
  3. How many facts did Junie B. find and write down? 18 p.36

Chapter 5

  1. Why was Mr. Scary frustrated at the beginning of the chapter? So many children were sick p.39
  2. Who had the most facts about Christopher Columbus? Junie B. & Jose p.46
  3. Who did Junie B. tell her secret to? Everyone in her class p.49

Chapter 6

  1. Who wanted to be Christopher Columbus? Jose p.51
  2. What part is Junie B. going to play? The Pinta p.51
  3. Why was May excited to play the Santa Maria? That’s the ship Christopher Columbus sailed in p.55

Chapter 7

  1. What did the children get to do in this chapter? Make their costumes for the play p.57
  2. What helped Lucille feel better about being the queen? She got to use glitter to make her crown p.61

Chapter 8

  1. Summarize what Junie B.’s class did in this chapter? Practiced the play p.65
  2. What names did the sailors have? Sinbad, Captain Hook, Popeye p.68
  3. Why did Mr. Scary tell Junie B. and May to sit down? They were fighting p.71

Chapter 9

  1. How did the three ships crash during the play? Junie B. accidentally hit May’s ship with hers when she noticed May getting in front of her. May then hit Junie B.’s and they hit Sheldon p.79
  2. Why was Sheldon in a rush to get out of the auditorium? Roger sneezed on him and he was worried about getting sick p.82
  3. Why was Junie B. upset that they crashed? Now Christopher Columbus wouldn’t get to America p.83

Chapter 10

  1. How did Jose save the show? He swam to America p.85
  2. What did Junie B. write to the other kids in Room One? An apology for ruining the play p.86

Comprehension Questions – Junie B., First Grader Dumb Bunny

Junie B., First Grader: Dumb Bunny

by Barbara Park

Grades 1-5; Genre- Fiction; GRL N; AR pts. 1.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What name does Junie B. call May? dumb bunny p.1
  2. What does Mr. Scary want May to do when she wants to tattle tale? Count to 20, count to 20 again, go home for the day then come back and cover her mouth p.5
  3. Why did Mr. Scary take Lucille out of the room? To talk to her about calling everyone in the class dumb clucks p.13

Chapter 2

  1. What’s Lucille’s dad going to hide? A golden egg with the grand prize p.19
  2. What’s the grand prize from the egg hunt going to be? Swimming with Lucille in her indoor pool p.19
  3. Why is Sheldon playing with Lucille? To get on her good side so she tells him where the egg is hidden p.24
  4. What does May frequently compare herself to? Birds p.25

Chapter 3

  1. Why did Junie B. choose her lavender overalls to the party? She can fit a lot of eggs in her pockets, they’re pretty, and she can run and tackle people in them p.29
  2. How did Lucille’s nanna react when she realized who Junie B. was? She got nervous p.35
  3. Why did Junie B. think she was so funny to think up the possibility that May was carried away by a North American barn owl? Because May compared herself to one p.38

Chapter 4

  1. Why couldn’t Lucille tell Sheldon where the golden egg was hidden? Her dad hid it and didn’t tell her p.42
  2. What was Sheldon lucky charm? Some egg that spilled on his shirt p.43
  3. What did Junie B. and her friends do to annoy Lucille’s dad? Kept repeating what he said while shouting p.48

Chapter 5

  1. What did Lucille’s parents and nanna do to decide who would sit next to Junie B.? a coin toss p.54
  2. Why isn’t the Easter bunny going to be at the party? Lucille’s nanna paid him in advanced and he didn’t come back p.57
  3. Describe the jellybean game Junie B. played at the party? There was a jar of jellybeans with only one purple jellybean. Everyone got to pick a jellybean out without looking and whoever got the purple one got a prize p.62

Chapter 6

  1. What did Junie B. receive as her prize for getting the purple jellybean? A bunny suit p.69
  2. Why did she get a bunny suit? She was to be the party’s Easter bunny p.69
  3. What did Lucille tell Junie B. that helped her want to dress up in the bunny suit? That there was a seat for her to sit on in the garden and the photographer would take pictures of her with the other children p.72

Chapter 7

  1. What happened to Junie B. when she ran in the bunny suit? She tripped and fell p.76
  2. Define what scolding means? To be angry and get after someone p.83
  3. Tell me two of the rules for the egg hunt. No running, no pushing, pulling or grabbing; no trampling the flowers and plants; do not go anywhere that is roped off; no tripping p.83

Chapter 8

  1. What did Lucille’s nanna threaten the children with to make them follow the rules? She was going to call the police p.91
  2. How did Junie B. try to help Sheldon in this chapter? She told him to stop shouting when he sees an egg and covered his mouth to try to stop him p.96
  3. Why did Junie B. feel like a rotten egg at the end of the chapter? She couldn’t move very well in the bunny suit to get any eggs during the hunt p.99

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Sheldon decide to quit the egg hunt? Because May was taking every egg he had found p.100
  2. Why was Lucille upset at Sheldon for quitting the hunt? Because she wanted him to find the golden egg p.105
  3. How did Sheldon get the golden egg? Junie B. tripped and saw it, she shouted it out, then Sheldon, May, and Junie B. pounced on it.  Junie B. had her paw on it, but she got mad at May and moved her paw, so Sheldon’s hand was on it instead p.112

Chapter 10

  1. How does Junie B. feel after giving the egg to Sheldon? Happy because his face made her smile inside and sad because she wanted to swim in Lucille’s pool p.116
  2. Why doesn’t Junie B. want to call May a dumb bunny anymore? Because she realizes that bunnies aren’t dumb p.117
  3. What’s Junie B.’s new name for May? Bird girl p.118

Comprehension Questions – #2 The Further Adventures of Hank the Cowdog

The Further Adventures of Hank the Cowdog

by John R. Erickson

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; 750L; AR pts: 3.0

Comprehension Questions (by Steve)

Chapter 1

  1. What was the silver monster bird a cross between? A bird and a reptile. Pg. 1.
  2. What kind of noise do they make? A LOUD roar. Pg. 2.
  3. What did Hank say he saw the monster pick up and eat? A whole steer. Pg. 6.
  4. How did Hank fight back the monster? He tore off its leg. Pg. 9.

Chapter 2

  1. Where does Hank like to bath? In the green water of the septic tank. Pg. 12.
  2. Why did Sally May throw out the egg? She busted the yoke. Pg. 13.
  3. Why didn’t Sally May give hank the egg? He fought with the cat and smelled. Pg. 16.
  4. Why was Loper mad at Hank’s barking? He woke the baby. Pg. 20.

Chapter 3

  1. Why could Hank hear every sound when asleep? He had sensitive ears. Pg. 23.
  2. What natural beauty of cowdogs attracted women? Their noses. Pg. 24.
  3. How did Hank try to fix his eyes? A mud pack. Pg. 27.
  4. Why did Hank not tell off Plato? He had the wrong pickup truck. Pg. 32.

Chapter 4

  1. Why was Beulah’s hair so coarse? Hank was talking to a bale of hay. Pg. 35.
  2. Who was Rufus? The Doberman pinscher who’s top dog at Beulah’s ranch. Pg. 38.
  3. Why did Hank fight Rufus? He forced Beulah to kiss him. Pg. 40.

Chapter 5

  1. What warning did Hank issue about the fight? Don’t let children know about it. Pg. 44.
  2. How does Hank say Dobermans got their name? They can pinch with their teeth. Pg. 46.
  3. Where did Drover bite Rufus? On the rump. Pg. 49.

Chapter 6

  1. Who was Hank waiting for by the fence? Drover. Pg. 53.
  2. Who was Hank waiting for in front of the shed? The cowboys. Pg.55.
  3. What did Loper say Hank should do if he can’t win the fight? Avoid the fight. Pg. 57.
  4. What did Drover do to Hank? Stuck out his tongue, threw dirt, paraded. Pg. 61.

Chapter 7

  1. What bothered Hank in the morning? Big green flies and ants. Pg. 64.
  2. What did Loper give Hank to feel better? Eggs and milk. Pg. 65.
  3. Who came to take his grub? Pete the Barncat. Pg. 66.
  4. What mess happened when Hank followed Pete? He got lost in the woods. Pg. 71.

Chapter 8

  1. What animal was hank afraid of in the woods? Snakes. Pg. 73.
  2. What did Rip and Snort ask Hank? Why are you alone? Pg. 76.
  3. What did Hank make them promise? To believe what he told them. Pg. 78.
  4. What did they think would happen? The moon would come down to be eaten. Pg. 79.

Chapter 9

  1. Who were the 2 voices that Hank recognized up in the tree?  Wallace and Junior. Pg. 82.
  2. What happened when Wallace flew down? He got hung upside down in vines. Pg. 85.
  3. Who did Junior say could fix Hank’s eyes? Madame Moonshine. Pg. 88.
  4. What worried Hank about the cave? Snakes. Pg. 90.

Chapter 10

  1. Who did Madame Moonshine say she didn’t believe in? Dogs. Pg. 92.
  2. Why did Madame Moonshine doubt that Hank controlled everything? Because he didn’t control fish, sunrise, ants. Pg. 93.
  3. Who was the rattle snake? Timothy. Pg. 96.
  4. Madame Moonshine would not let Hank leave until what? He solved riddles. Pg. 100.

Chapter 11

  1. What did Hank think Madame Moonshine was better than? Loper’s Black Draught. Pg. 103.
  2. Who was hiding in the post pile? Plato. Pg. 104.
  3. Why did Hank want Plato to Distract Rufus? So he could blind side him. Pg. 106.
  4. Who helped Hank and Plato? Beulah joined the fight. Pg. 111.
  5. How did Billy feel about Rufus getting beat up? Discussed; wanted to sell him. Pg. 113.

Chapter 12

  1. What did Pete and Drover decide to do? To make a play making fun of hank. Pg. 116.
  2. What happened when Hank chased Pete into the feed barn? He got his head stuck. Pg. 121.
  3. What did Hank do when Drover hid? Tore up the Feed barn. Pg. 123.
  4. How did Loper know Hank tore up the barn? Red paint on his paws. Pg. 127.

Comprehension Questions – The Chronicles of Narnia #6 The Silver Chair

The Silver Chair

By C.S. Lewis

Grades 3-8; Genre - Fantasy; GRL W; AR pts. 8.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Why was Jill crying at the beginning of the book? She was being bullied p.1
  2. How did Jill and Eustace arrive in Narnia? They ran into a doorway away from some bullies and the other side of the door was Narnia p.9
  3. How do you know the kids were in Narnia? Jill saw Aslan p.16

Chapter 2

  1. Why didn’t Jill rush to get a drink from the glade? Aslan was right next to it and she thought he would eat her p.19
  2. What did Aslan want Jill to remember? The four signs he told her to help them in their task p.24
  3. What was Jill’s consequence for making Eustace fall off the edge of the cliff? Eustace doesn’t know the signs and Jill has to remember them herself and tell them to Eustace p.25
  4. How did Jill and Eustace travel to Narnia? On Aslan’s breath p.26

Chapter 3

  1. Who was the old king that got on the ship? Prince Caspian p.39
  2. Why was Eustace so confused about Narnia? He’d never been to the land of Narnia before, only to the sea p.41
  3. Did Eustace and Jill fulfill the first sign Aslan gave them? Why or why not? No, Eustace didn’t recognize the old king and Jill couldn’t get Eustace to understand the sign p.44

Chapter 4

  1. How did Jill and Eustace leave the castle and travel to the tower? The white owl, Glimfeather p.52
  2. Why would Trumpkin forbid the kids to look for the lost prince? Knights, centaurs, good giants, etc.(champions) have tried to find the prince and have never returned p.54
  3. How did Prince Caspian’s wife die? She was poisoned by a serpent while out with the prince p.57
  4. Why did Drinian tell the king he felt he was a traitor and to slay him? He held his tongue when he found out what Rilian was up to p.60

Chapter 5

  1. Where did the kids sleep after the owls dropped them off? In a Marsh-wiggle’s wigwam p.66
  2. Describe Puddleglum. He’s seems to always be negative and hopeless p.70
  3. What type of people live in Ettinsmoor? Giants p.74
  4. What stopped Eustace and Jill from quarreling? Puddleglum stating that all adventures are ready to knife each other at the end of an adventure p.78

Chapter 6

  1. Why did the giants throw rocks at the travelers? They didn’t see the travelers and were playing a game with each other p.82
  2. Who did the children meet after crossing the bridge? A knight and beautiful women p.89
  3. Why did Puddleglum think the knight was suspicious? He didn’t talk p.92
  4. Why was it a problem that Jill didn’t remember to recite the signs Aslan gave her? The signs were to help the children find the prince and if Jill didn’t remember the signs, they wouldn’t know where to go or what to look for p.94

Chapter 7

  1. Describe the weather the children traveled in to Harfang? Blizzard p.98
  2. How did the giant react to the travelers? He let them in and introduced them to the king p.108
  3. What did the giant give Puddleglum to drink? Liquor p.110

Chapter 8

  1. Why did Jill begin to cry when they stood before the king and queen? She was cold, tired, hungry and scared p.115
  2. Describe Jill’s dream. Aslan came to her and asked her to repeat the signs, but she couldn’t. He carried her to the window sill. As she looked out, she saw “under me” written in the sky p.119
  3. How did the children mess up the third sign? They walked through the ruined city in the storm and passed it. Now they’re stuck in the giant’s home.123
  4. Why was it important that Jill got permission to run around the castle? The children could explore and find the best way to escape and wouldn’t look suspicious when they were outside of their rooms while escaping p.128

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Puddleglum warn the children to stop eating the venison? The venison was from a talking beast p.132
  2. Why was Jill alarmed after reading two recipes in the cookbook? There was a recipe for man and another one for Marsh-wiggle p.135
  3. Where did the travelers go to hide from the hounds and giants? A hole in a giant stair p.140

Chapter 10

  1. What type of people lived underground? Gnomes p.146
  2. What human did the travelers get taken to? The quiet Knight p.158
  3. How does the knight feel about his queen? That she can do no wrong p.158

Chapter 11

  1. What enchantment does the queen save the knight from? He turns into a serpent a certain time every night p.164
  2. Why did the Knight want the children and Puddleglum to watch over him as he was tied to the silver chair? To comfort him p.168
  3. Why did they let the Knight go? He gave the fourth sign; he’s the prince p.176

Chapter 12

  1. What did the queen do after Rilian asked her to let them go peacefully? She threw green powder into the fireplace and played a stringed instrument p.181
  2. What did Jill remember while fighting the witch’s enchantment? Aslan p.187
  3. What did Puddleglum do to stop the enchantment? Stamped out the fire p.189
  4. What did the witch turn into? A serpent p.192

Chapter 13

  1. What was the result of the queen’s death? Her magic ended and the Underworld was getting destroyed by flood and volcano p.198
  2. What figure was on Rilian’s shield? an image of the Lion p.202
  3. Who was following the travelers as they rode through the city to escape? Gnomes p.204
  4. How did the gnome respond when the Prince told him the queen was dead? He was happy and said Rilian was a friend p.209

Chapter 14

  1. What had the witch done to the gnomes?  She had put an enchantment on them so they would be her slaves p.210
  2. What made the gnomes wake up? Rilian, Eustace, and Puddleglum killing the queen p.212
  3. Why were the gnomes acting like they were going to war? They didn’t know the queen was dead and were ready to fight so they could go back home p.213
  4. Why did the gnomes fling themselves into the chasm? Down the chasm is their real home and it was closing. They would have been stuck up in the city p.220

Chapter 15

  1. Where did the hole lead that Jill and Eustace climbed out of? Narnia p.231
  2. Why did Eustace come out of the hole fighting? He couldn’t see very well, snow fell on him from the cliff above, Narnian creatures were running toward him, and he thought enemies had taken Jill p.235
  3. Where do the Narnians think the witch was from?  The north p. 240

Chapter 16

  1. Where did the children fin Prince Rilian? On the green waiting for his father’s ship p.248
  2. What happened to the king after being carried off the ship? He died p.249
  3. Why did Aslan want Eustace to poke his paw? The blood from his paw dropped into the stream over Caspian’s body and brought him back to life (resurrection) p.262
  4. How did Aslan and Caspian help Jill and Eustace in their world? The kids that were bullying Jill saw the back of Aslan and the other three chased down the bullies p.256 

Comprehension Questions – Where the Red Fern Grows

Where the Red Fern Grows

by Wilson Rawls

Grade 6; Genre - Fiction; GRL X; AR pts: 11.0

Vocabulary and Themes in the Story (by Steve)

Comprehension Questions (by Steve)

Chapter 1

  1. Describe the dog fight. The pack was attacking an old redbone hound. Pg. 2.
  2. What did the old hound look like? He was starving. Pg. 3.
  3. What could you tell from the paws? He had come a long way. Pg. 3.
  4. What was his name? Buddie. Pg. 3.
  5. Why did he let the hound go? It would break his heart to stay; break his will to live. Pg. 5.

Chapter 2

  1. Where does Billy live? Ozark Mountains on Cherokee land. Pg. 9.
  2. What happened because of his dog-wanting? He lost weight and didn’t sleep. Pg. 11.
  3. What did Billy’s dad buy him for hunting? Three small steel traps. Pg. 12.
  4. What did Billy trap? Samie the Cat over and over until he left. Pg. 14.
  5.  What did Billy’s father allow him to do in the summer? Work in the fields. Pg. 18

Chapter 3

  1. What does Billy find in the Fishermen’s camp? A magazine selling dogs for $25. Pg. 20.
  2. What does Billy save his money in? An old K.C. Baking Powder Can. Pg. 22.
  3. How does Billy save the money? He saves the $50 by selling berries, hides, vegetables. Pg. 24.
  4. Why is his grandfather surprised about the money? Billy worked and saved for 2 years. Pg. 25.
  5. What does his grandfather do? Gives him candy and says don’t tell about the dogs. Pg. 26.

Chapter 4

  1. Where does Billie have to go for the dogs? Tahlequah. Pg. 28.
  2. How does Billie get to Tahlequah? He walks 20 miles. Pg. 31.
  3. What and why does he buy things for family? Overalls and cloth because he snuck out. Pg. 34.
  4. How do the kids treat Billie? They call him a hillbilly. Pg. 37.

Chapter 5

  1. Who was in charge at the depot? The stationmaster. Pg. 39.
  2. How did Billy carry the pups home? In the gunny sack with holes for their heads. Pg. 42.
  3. Why did Billy fight the freckle face boy? He pulled his pups ear and it cried. Pg. 44.
  4. What did the Marshall give Billy? Strawberry pop. Pg. 47.
  5. Why’d Billy think the lion wouldn’t hurt them? His father said it was afraid of fire. Pg. 51.

Chapter 6

  1. How did Billy pick the pups’ names? They were carved in the tree. Pg.54.
  2. How did Billy’s father know where he was? His grandpa told him. Pg. 56.
  3. What did Mama fix for the pups? Warm milk. Pg. 57.
  4. What was the cave called where Billy spent the night? Robber’s Cave. Pg. 57.
  5. What was the black pipe at the school in town? A fire escape. Pg. 60.

Chapter 7

  1. What did Billy think of his Grandpa’s trapping idea? He thought he was kidding. Pg. 65.
  2. What did Grandpa’s pet coon catch his hand in? The butter churn. Pg. 66.
  3. What did Mama think when Billy yelled about the coon? A snake bit him. Pg. 71.
  4. Why can’t you sell coon skins in summer? They have yellow hair. Pg. 74.
  5. What did Billy think about the pups when they had talks? They understood him. Pg. 77.

Chapter 8

  1. Why was Mama worried about Billy hunting? He hadn’t been in the woods all night. Pg. 81.
  2. What was the first trick the coon pulled on the hounds? Swam through water. Pg. 84.
  3. Which tree did the coon run up? “The big tree”. Pg. 89.
  4. Why did Billy tell Papa it was important to chop the tree down? To keep his bargain. Pg.92.

Chapter 9

  1. How did Grandpa keep the coon up the tree all night? With a scarecrow. Pg. 99.
  2. What traits did Grandpa say make a man? Determination and will power. Pg.101.
  3. What did Mama learn about coon? That they were smart. Pg. 103.
  4. Where did the dogs spend the night? They slept by the tree together. Pg. 106.
  5. Why did Billy think the wind blew the tree down? He prayed to God. Pg.108.
  6. Did Papa have another explanation? It blew the tree only because it was the tallest. Pg. 112.

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Billy go to the store on Saturdays? It was “Coon Hunter” day. Pg. 115.
  2. Why did the hunters make fun of Billy’s hounds? They were small. Pg. 116.
  3. Who did Mama use to catch the chickens? Little Ann; Old Dan was too rough. Pg. 118.
  4. Why did Billy think Old Dan had drowned? He was in a muskrat den in the slough. Pg. 122.
  5. How did Old Dan get up in the tree? He went through the hollow trunk. Pg. 125.

Chapter 11

  1. Why was it dangerous after the snow storm? It was slick and no moon. Pg. 128.
  2. What happened when the dogs jumped the river? Old Dan was strong and made it; Little Ann slipped and fell in. Pg. 132.
  3. What did Billy do when he couldn’t save Little Ann? He prayed for a miracle. Pg. 134.
  4. What did Billy learn from the lantern clanging? Use the handle for a hook. Pg. 135.
  5. Why didn’t Billy tell Mama? Because she’d worry and stop him from hunting. Pg. 139.

Chapter 12

  1. Why did Grandpa accept the bet with Rubin? He called him crooked and spat. Pg. 144.
  2. What and how much was the bet for? To catch the ghost coon for $2. Pg. 145
  3. What happened when the coon went up a tree? It disappeared. Pg. 155.

Chapter 13

  1. How did Little Ann know the coon was in the gate post? A breeze carried the scent. Pg. 159.
  2. Where was the ghost coon? In the hallow gate post. Pg. 160.
  3. How did Billy feel about the ghost coon? He wouldn’t kill him. Pg. 161.
  4. Why couldn’t Old Blue beat Old Dan? Little Ann helped fight him. Pg. 165.
  5. How did Rainie react to his brother’s death? He couldn’t get over the shock. Pg. 171.

Chapter 14

  1. What kind of dogs could enter in the coon hunt? Registered. Pg. 179
  2. Was Billy happy with his life? Luckiest boy in the world. Pg. 184.
  3. What did his little sister want from the hunt? The gold cup. Pg. 186.
  4. What was the only thing wrong with Little Ann? Gun-shy, Pg. 189.
  5. What did Grandpa keep secret from Grandma? The corn liquor. Pg. 191.

Chapter 15

  1. Why wouldn’t Old Dan eat his food? He was waiting for Little Ann. Pg. 194.
  2. What did Billy think 2 screech owls meant? Bad luck. Pg. 196.
  3. What kind of dogs were at the hunt? Redbones, blue ticks, walkers, and blood hounds. Pg. 200.
  4.  Why did Billy pick Little Ann for the beauty contest? Old Dan’s face was all scared. Pg. 201.

Chapter 16

  1. Where did the hounds run the coon? Back to the camp. Pg. 211.
  2. Why did Grandpa look funny drying by the fire? His long underwear was steaming. Pg. 212.
  3. Why was the judge worried with the coon in the river? He might drown the dogs. Pg. 221.
  4. What surprised the judge? The dogs cleaned each other’s cuts after the fight. Pg. 222.

Chapter 17

  1. Why did the judge want to quit? Because of the storm. Pg. 226.
  2. How did they get Little Ann to come to them? They fired the gun. Pg. 228.
  3. Who led them to Grandpa? Little Ann. Pg. 231.
  4. What happened when they cut down the tree? 3 coons came out. Pg. 234.

Chapter 18

  1. What did the hunter say happened to the hounds? Frozen solid. Pg. 240.
  2. Why did the dogs keep circling the tree? They’d freeze if they stopped. Pg. 242.
  3. What did Mr. Kyle call dog loyalty? The deepest kind of love. Pg. 243.
  4. What did Mama do that night? Took food to the dogs and prayed. Pg. 250.

Chapter 19

  1. How did Billy try to stop Old Dan’s bleeding? Mud caked onto the wounds. Pg. 260.
  2. How did Billy feel when his dogs died? He didn’t believe in prayer anymore Pg. 270.
  3. What was the miracle from the dogs? The money to move to the city. Pg. 272.

Chapter 20

  1. What did Billy see when he said good-bye to the dogs? The red fern Pg. 278.
  2. What did Papa think the red fern did? It was God’s way of helping Billy understand why his dogs died. Pg.279.

Comprehension Questions – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

by Barbara Robinson

Grades 4-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL M; AR pts: 2.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. How does the author describe the Herdmans? the worst kids in the history of the world p.2
  2. How did the Herdmans burn down the toolshed? Leroy Herdman stole a chemistry set and they were trying it out p.3
  3. Why did Imogene write down everyone’s weight? So she could blackmail them p.14
  4. Why is Gladys the meanest Herdman? Each Herdman child taught the one younger than them everything they knew and Gladys was the youngest p.19

Chapter 2

  1. How does the author’s family feel about the Christmas Pageant? They don’t like it; it’s the same every year p.20
  2. Why did the author’s mother get put in charge of the Christmas Pageant? The woman who usually did it, Mrs. Armstrong, broke her leg p.23
  3. What did Charlie say that made the Herdmans want to attend Sunday School? That he can get all the dessert he wants there p.29
  4. How did Imogene act when told the pageant was about Jesus Christ? Uninterested p.33

Chapter 3

  1. Who volunteered to act in all the important roles of the pageant? All the Herdman kids p.41
  2. How was everyone feeling about the Herdmans taking over the pageant? They didn’t like it p.47
  3. Who motivated Mother to make this the best Christmas Pageant ever? Mrs. Armstrong p.51
  4. What did the minister say to those who complained to him? That Jesus said “suffer the little children to come unto me” and Jesus meant all the little children including the Herdmans p.51

Chapter 4

  1. Why hadn’t the Herdmans heard of the Christmas story before? They hadn’t ever been to church and their parents hadn’t taught them p.55
  2. How did the Herdmans react when Mother was telling them the story? They were interested and shocked p.57
  3. How did the kids feel about King Herod? They were really interested in him p.66

Chapter 5

  1. How did the Herdmans learn about King Herod? They went to the library p.71
  2. Name two things the Herdmans have done that have made Alice upset? Drank the communion wine, stole crayons from the Sunday School cupboards, stole pennies out of the Happy Birthday bank, and smoked cigars in the bathroom p.74
  3. Why was it difficult to get a baby for the pageant? No one wanted Imogene, who was playing Mary, to touch their babies p.79

Chapter 6

  1. Who pierced Imogene’s ears? Gladys p.85
  2. Why was the fire department called? Someone saw smoke in the bathroom when Imogene was smoking p.89
  3. Why was Reverend Hopkins worried no one would come see the pageant? Because of the Herdmans were in it and they always caused trouble p.93

Chapter 7

  1. What did the Herdmans bring for their gift to the baby Jesus? Their ham p.100
  2. Why did Imogene cry during the song Silent Night? She felt the spirit of birth of the Savior p.104
  3. What made this pageant the best one? The Herdmans p.104
  4. Why didn’t the Herdmans take back the ham? It was their true sacrifice to the baby Jesus p.106

Comprehension Questions – Secret Agent Jack Stalwart #5 The Secret of the Sacred Temple: Cambodia

The Secret of the Sacred Temple: Cambodia

by Elizabeth Singer Hunt

Grades K-3; Genre - Fiction; GRL P; AR pts: 2.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Who was visiting Jack and his family? His cousin Lily p.1
  2. How does Jack feel about her? Thinks she’s annoying p.2

Chapter 2

  1. Why did Ronald Barter start the GPF? He was tired of crooks trying to destroy the things that mattered in the world p.6
  2. When did Jack join the GPF? When his older brother disappeared p.6

Chapter 3

  1. What country is Jack traveling to in this book? Cambodia p.12
  2. What was the code word for this mission? Temple p.12

Chapter 4

  1. What did Jack do when his parachute didn’t come out of his bag? He used The Dome, a disc made of elastic material that expanded and slowed his fall p.18
  2. Where did Jack land when the elastic material burst? In some water by a monument p.19
  3. Who was waiting for Jack? Kate p.21

Chapter 5

  1. Who is Kate’s mum? One of the chief archeologists watching over the ancient temple of Angkor Wat p.26
  2. Why did Kate call the GPF? Her mum was kidnapped p.26

Chapter 6

  1. What condition was Kate’s house in when Jack saw it? A mess; pictures ripped from the walls, furniture overturned, curtains shredded to bits p.28
  2. What did Jack find under the sofa? A voice recorder p.31
  3. Summarize what Jack and Kate heard on the voice recorder. Kate’s mom mentioned the map and her daughter, then a man appeared demanding the map, she wouldn’t give it to him, so they took her away to the Temple of the Trees to try and get her to talk p.33

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Kate trust Jack? Because her mother knew his brother and he was a good agent p.36
  2. Why was Jack eager to find Kate’s mum? To save her, but also to find out more information on his brother’s disappearance p.39

Chapter 8

  1. What did Jack give Kate before they left on the bikes? A Transponder, in case she got lost p.40
  2. What did the gadgets in Jack’s shoes warn him of? Landmines p.44

Chapter 9

  1. What time of day did Jack and Kate enter the temple looking for her mom? Night p.48
  2. Where was the map located? On Kate’s necklace p.51
  3. What did the man do to Jack? Threw a powder at him that blinded him, made him sick, and made him go to sleep p.54

Chapter 10

  1. How did Jack recover from the powder? He put some Electrolyte Dust on his tongue p.56
  2. Where had the crooks taken Kate and her mum? Back to the Temple of Angkor Wat p.59

Chapter 11

  1. Where did Jack find Kate? In the central well of the temple p.65
  2. Why did the crooks send Kate into the well? The well was too narrow for an adult p.69
  3. Where did Jack and Kate think the crooks went? To the airport p.70

Chapter 12

  1. How did Jack get a ticket to get passed the official? He had a Trick Ticket device that created a ticket and a Voice-Recognition Passport that he had programmed as well p.74
  2. What showed up in Jack’s backpack as it went through security? Gum, books and a gaming device p.77

Chapter 13

  1. How did Jack trick the man with the gold teeth? He said he got an important piece of the treasure from Kate, and the man released her mum p.81
  2. How did Jack get the treasure? He threw the object he was using to trick the man, the man tried to catch it and dropped the box of treasure, and Jack grabbed the box with an expandable hook p.84
  3. What did Jack use to capture the bad guy? The anti-bullet Net Tosser p.85

Chapter 14

  1. Why did Jack want to talk to Kate’s mum? To see if she knew anything about his brother’s disappearance p.92

Chapter 15

  1. Where did Max disappear from? Egypt p.93
  2. What was the object of Max’s mission when he disappeared? A mummy p.94
  3. How did Jack get back home? Went into Kate’s mum’s room, threw a pellet on the floor which released a smoke, and said, “off to England!”