Tag Archives: GRL R

Comprehension Questions – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

by Roald Dahl

Grade 5; Genre - Fantasy; GRL R; AR pts. 5.0

In this timeless classic, Willy Wonka, a crazy chocolatier, opens his chocolate factory doors for the first time to five lucky children who have randomly purchased the coveted chocolate bars containing the golden ticket. Besides a lifetime supply of chocolate, the children get a chance to tour the mysterious factory with their guide, Willy Wonka.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe Charlie. Lives with his parents and both sets of grandparents; they’re very poor; he loves chocolate and only gets it on his birthday; he walks by the largest and most famous chocolate factory on the way to school and wants to go inside to see what it’s like p.1

Chapter 2

  1. Summarize this chapter. Grandpa Joe describes Willy Wonka and how amazing he is p.9

Chapter 3

  1. What shocking information did Grandpa Joe tell Charlie? There are no workers going in or out of the chocolate factory gates; the workers they can see in the windows aren’t ordinary p.14

Chapter 4

  1. Why is it so exciting that people will be able to go into the chocolate factory? It’s been closed to the public and factory workers for over 10 years p.16

Chapter 5

  1. Why is Charlie feeling discouraged about finding a golden ticket? His odds of getting one are very low, since he only gets one chocolate bar a year p.21

Chapter 6

  1. Why does Veruca need a spanking? She’s spoiled and always gets her way; she’s never been disciplined p.25

Chapter 7

  1. Choose a word to describe Charlie in this chapter. Why did you choose it? Listen to your child’s answer; kind, thoughtful, generous, sharing, selfless p.29

Chapter 8

  1. What do all the golden ticket winners have in common so far? They are all selfish and bratty p.34

Chapter 9

  1. Why are Charlie and his grandpa laughing at the end of this chapter? They had a special moment together, and in the excitement of possibly getting the golden ticket they nervously opened the bar, but didn’t find anything p.36

Chapter 10

  1. Why was it important that Charlie save his strength? He did not have enough food to eat and doesn’t have energy to waste p.40
  2. Why is he needing to do this? His dad lost his job and they didn’t have much to eat p.38

Chapter 11

  1. How is Charlie able to purchase the candy bars? What was the consequence? He found a dollar bill half buried in the snow; he received the golden ticket p.43

Chapter 12

  1. What instructions were given on the ticket? The ticket holder is to arrive at 10 am sharp on February 1st; they are to bring one or two family members to look after them p.50

Chapter 13

  1. Summarize this chapter. It’s February 1st and the lucky kids and their family members are waiting to go inside the chocolate factory gates while a large crowd has gathered to observe p.53

Chapter 14

  1. Describe Willy Wonka. A little man wearing a purple coat, green pants, gray gloves, carries a cane with a gold tip and a black top hat; friendly and kind; welcoming; lots of energy p.57

Chapter 15

  1. Describe the chocolate room. Underground; large and beautiful; consists of a valley with green meadows, a chocolate waterfall, chocolate river, enormous glass pipes that carry the chocolate to other rooms to make candy; the trees, flowers and grass are edible; has little men called Oompa-Loompas p.63

Chapter 16

  1. How did Willy Wonka convince the Oompa-Loompas to come work for him? He’d give them all the cacao beans they want to eat p.70

Chapter 17

  1. Why did Willy Wonka say the Oompa-loompas were joking? He didn’t want people to think they had purposely made Augustus go into the pipe p.80

Chapter 18

  1. What did everyone see as they went down the chocolate river? Storeroom doors with signs on them; creams, beans, whips p.86

Chapter 19

  1. Describe the Inventing Room. Secret room only Willy Wonka goes into; the most important room in the factory; where secret inventions are made; looks like a witch’s kitchen with black metal pots, kettles, pans, etc. filled with inventions p.87
  2. Describe one of the inventions listed in this chapter. Everlasting Gobstopper or Hair Toffee p.90

Chapter 20

  1. Who knew what the invention made in this chapter is? How? Violet; she loves gum p.94

Chapter 21

  1. What happened to Violet in this chapter? She took the gum that came out of the machine even though Mr. Wonka told her not to, and she swelled into a blueberry p.95

Chapter 22

  1. How does Mr. Wonka treat Mike Teavee when Mike asks him a question? He doesn’t answer it and tells him to stop mumbling or to stop interrupting him p.105

Chapter 23

  1. Describe Willy Wonka’s behavior in this chapter. He’s losing patience with everyone except Charlie and Grandpa Joe; he’s not very nice and is calling people names p.107
  2. What does Mr. Wonka mean, “the square candies look round”? The candies have faces on them and look around the room p.108

Chapter 24

  1. How was Veruca disrespectful in this chapter? She didn’t listen to Willy Wonka and went into the room to get herself a squirrel p.111
  2. What was the consequence? The squirrels threw her into the garbage chute; there’s an incinerator at the bottom that may be lit p.113
  3. Who is to blame for her disrespectful behavior? She and her parents p.118

Chapter 25

  1. Describe the elevator. Glass; covered in black buttons that travel all over the factory; goes very fast; on the same track as another elevator so they could crash; goes in all directions p.118

Chapter 26

  1. What will “…change the world”? Being able to reach into a television and grab a chocolate bar p.129

Chapter 27

  1. What happened to Mike Teavee. He didn’t listen and became the first person to be sent by television, so he became tiny and will need to be stretched out p.130

Chapter 28

  1. Summarize this chapter. Mr. Wonka told Charlie he’d won since he was the only child left; they got into the elevator and shot through the roof of the factory; they saw the other children leave the factory p.142

Chapter 29

  1. What’s the result of each of the children’s choices that are going home? They will deal with the consequences of their choices for the rest of their lives p.148

Chapter 30

  1. Why did Willy Wonka invite children to come to the factory? To choose who he would like to give it to after he’s taught them all his secrets and how to run the factory p.151

Comprehension Questions – Sarah, Plain and Tall Series #3 Caleb’s Story

Caleb's Story

by Patricia MacLachlan

Grades 2-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts. 2.0

The stranger lurking on the Witting family's prairie farm turns out to be their long-lost grandfather, whose presence, plus prodding from Caleb, forces Jacob to deal with his past.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Who’s telling the story? How do you know? Caleb; the journal entry at the beginning is his p.3
  2. Where’s Anna going? To work in town, she’s a nurse p.7

Chapter 2

  1. Predict who the old man is? Listen to your child’s answer
  2. Should Sarah have let him into the house? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 3

  1. Why did John want to play hide and seek with Cassie? To distract her so she wouldn’t stare at the man p.25

Chapter 4

  1. Who is the man and why is Jacob shocked to see him? Jacob’s father; he was told he was dead p.35

Chapter 5

  1. Why is Jacob upset to see his father? He left their family when he was young and never came back p.44

Chapter 6

  1. Why was grandfather upset with Sarah? She found out about his pills and said they would take him to the doctor in town p.57

Chapter 7

  1. Why did Sarah warn Anna to be careful? She didn’t want her to get sick with the influenza that was spreading p.68
  2. Why didn’t Grandfather ever want to read? He didn’t know how p.72

Chapter 8

  1. What was the result of Cassie’s comment at dinner? Jacob and his father pushed each other around and Jacob got hurt p.81

Chapter 9

  1. What does it mean to set a bone? To line it up the broken bone so it can heal straight p.83

Chapter 10

  1. Why is it important for Jacob to forgive his father? So, he won’t be angry anymore p.99

Chapter 11

  1. How did Sarah get stuck in the snow? There was a bad snow storm and she tried to follow the rope, but it broke p.106

Chapter 12

  1. How could Jacob forgive his father? By sharing his own feelings as well as listening and understanding his father’s; by letting go of his pride p.112

Comprehension Questions – Sarah, Plain and Tall Series #2 Skylark

Skylark

by Patricia MacLachlan

This book mentions skinny dipping.

Grades 2-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts. 1.0

Maine was beautiful, but Anna missed home, and Papa. And as the weeks went by, she began to wonder what would happen if the rains never came. Would she and Caleb and Sarah and Papa ever be a family again?

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Describe what is happening at the beginning of this book. Papa, Sarah, Anna and Caleb are getting a family picture taken; the land is in a drought; Caleb is worried Sarah’s going to leave; Papa said no matter how bad it gets they won’t ever leave p.3

Chapter 2

  1. Explain in your own words what Sarah meant on page 13. Some people can express more when they write than when they speak
  2. Do you write in a journal? What do you like to write about? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 3

  1. What is Sarah thinking when she sadly and thoughtfully said, “I am surrounded by motherhood”? She wants to have a baby p.16

Chapter 4

  1. Why didn’t Sarah want to read her aunt’s letter out loud? It talks of rain and green grass; Anna’s family is still in a drought and she didn’t want to make Papa feel stressed p.25

Chapter 5

  1. Why did Maggie get upset with Sarah in the store? Sarah doesn’t understand how hard it is to pack up and leave due to the drought p.31

Chapter 6

  1. What did Caleb see in the field and were they able to take care of it? A fire; yes they put it out p.35

Chapter 7

  1. What do you think Sarah day dreamed about if it’s not Maine? Having a baby p.41
  2. How does Sarah really feel about living there? She hates it p.44

Chapter 8

  1. Describe Sarah’s birthday party. The neighbors all came; there was music and dancing; lemonade and food; Anna gave Sarah a book she had written p.51

Chapter 9

  1. Why was it decided Sarah would take the children to Maine? Another fire burned down the barn and they have to travel further for water; it was getting too dangerous p.60

Chapter 10

  1. Summarize this chapter. It tells of the journey to Maine and how Sarah’s aunts showered them with love when they arrived p.62

Chapter 11

  1. Predict what you think will happen. Is Maine going to be their new home? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 12

  1. Which two birds was Sarah compared to in this chapter? Why? Skylark for singing and prairie lark that hasn’t come to earth p.80

Chapter 13

  1. Why do you think Anna wasn’t able to answer Caleb when he asked if they would see Papa again? She didn’t know if or when they would p.88

Chapter 14

  1. What good news did Papa and Sarah share in this chapter? Sarah was having a baby in the spring p.93

Chapter 15

  1. What was significant about Sarah writing her name in the dirt? It meant she was ready to come to earth and call the prairie her home p.96

Comprehension Questions – The Whipping Boy

The Whipping Boy

by Sid Fleischman

Grades 5-6; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts. 2.0

A bratty prince and his whipping boy have many adventures when they inadvertently trade places.

Phrases

  • Mad enough to spit ink p.1
  • Puts my spine a-shiver p.23
  • Catchpenny rogues p.25
  • It’s me that’s in the soup p.39
  • Knockin’ about outside the castle walls p.49
  • Sweat and stew p.49
  • As close as a cow’s tail p.75

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. What’s the purpose of a whipping boy? It is forbidden to whip a prince, so a boy is found on the streets and brought into the castle to be whipped when the prince is in trouble p.2

Chapter 2

  1. Why did the whipping boy learn to read, write and do sums when the prince learned nothing? Jemmy needed to be close by when the prince took his lessons p.6

Chapter 3

  1. Why was Jemmy worried to run away with the prince? He knew he’d be whipped when they were caught p.8

Chapter 4

  1. What’s happening at the end of this chapter? The boys were getting kidnapped p.11

Chapter 5

  1. Why didn’t Jemmy want the prince to tell the men who he was? They’d hold them for ransom p.13

Chapter 6

  1. Describe the kidnappers. Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy; Billy smelled of garlic, was big, thick, and loud with red hair; Cutwater was tall and thin p.18
  2. Why is Billy nicknamed, Hold-Your-Nose Billy? He smelled of garlic

Chapter 7

  1. What do you think Jemmy’s plan is? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapter 8

  1. What was untrue in the letter Jemmy wrote? He signed it, “your obedient son”; the prince isn’t obedient p.26

Chapter 9

  1. Who’s the whipping boy now? The prince p.28
  2. How’s Jemmy going to free the prince? Sending the “whipping boy” to the castle with the note p.29

Chapter 10

  1. What decision did the prince make to fowl up Jemmy’s plan? He refused to go to the castle p.32

Chapter 11

  1. Who was to deliver the note since Prince Brat won’t? The horse p.38

Chapter 12

  1. Describe the prince. Selfish, not very clever or smart; won’t learn to read or write p.40

Chapter 13

  1. How did the boys escape? Jemmy ran with Cutwater chasing him; a bear distracted Cutwater so Jemmy could hide; the prince found Jemmy p.41 

Chapter 14

  1. Why didn’t the prince want to go back to the castle? His dad doesn’t notice him; he doesn’t want to get in trouble; he likes the freedom p.49

Chapter 15

  1. Who did the boys run into again? Hold-Your-Nose Billy and Cutwater p.54

Chapter 16

  1. Why didn’t Jemmy get satisfaction when the prince was whipped? The prince became his friend p.58

Chapter 17

  1. How is the prince’s character growing and developing? He took a whipping and didn’t cry out; he’s being called brave; he’s not being selfish; he didn’t turn in Jemmy p.61

Chapter 18

  1. What did the prince learn at the fair? That his subjects didn’t like him and dreaded the day he’d become king p.69
  2. What did Jemmy learn? The king blamed him for the prince’s disappearance and has a reward for whoever brings him in, dead or alive p.73

Chapter 19

  1. How has the relationship between the two boys changed from when they first ran away? At first, they didn’t care what happened to each other, now they are becoming friends and respect and trust each other p.77

Chapter 20

  1. How does this story end? Betsy and captain Nips get the reward, the prince promises to do his lessons, behave himself and blow out his night candle; Jemmy stays in the castle and gets acknowledged for helping the prince; Billy and Cutwater get put on a ship to go to an island for prisoners p.87

Comprehension Questions – Sarah, Plain and Tall Series #1 Sarah, Plain and Tall

Sarah, Plain and Tall

by Patricia MacLachlan

Grades 3-5; Genre - Historical Fiction; GRL R; AR pts. 1.0

In this loving story of a motherless family, a tall, plain woman comes to stay with them.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. How does this story begin? Anna is telling Caleb about their mother who died the day after he was born; their pa said he put an advertisement in the paper for a wife and got a response p.3
  2. Who is telling this story? Anna

Chapter 2

  1. Why did Caleb read Sarah’s letters repeatedly? He was excited at the prospect of having a mother and liked what Sarah said p.12

Chapter 3

  1. Why does Anna think Sarah wouldn’t like living on the prairie? It’s very different than living by the ocean; dusty and dry; no ocean or beach; away from her home p.20

Chapter 4

  1. What’s the significance of the words Caleb is pointing out that Sarah is saying? Sarah is using terminology that imply she’s staying longer than a month; he’s hoping she stays and marries his pa p.24

Chapter 5

  1. How did pa help Sarah feel at home in this chapter? He gave her a dune to slide down in the barn, like the dune by the ocean p.31

Chapter 6

  1. What did Sarah teach the children in this chapter? How to swim p.36
  2. Is Sarah being a good mother to them? Why, or why not? Listen to your child’s answer. 

Chapter 7

  1. Give two examples of how Maggie is a good friend to Sarah. She helped Sarah know that she wasn’t alone; brought her flowers to plant and chickens to eat; helped her understand she needed to learn to drive a wagon p.40

Chapter 8

  1. What type of storm did the family experience in this chapter? A tornado p.47
  2. Why were the children happy when they saw their father hold Sarah like he had their mother? Their father was beginning to show love to Sarah; they wanted her to be their mom p.49

Chapter 9

  1. Why was Caleb so bothered that Sarah wanted to go into town by herself? He was worried she’d leave them and not come back p.52
  2. How does this story end? Sarah went to town and came back with three colored pencils, candles, flower seeds, and a book of songs to teach them; she marries their father p.57

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 – Deltora Quest #8 Return to Del

Return to Del

by Emily Rodda

Grades 3-7; Genre - Fantasy; GRL R; AR pts. 4.0

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Why did Lief tell the Torans about the belt? They saw it before they changed back, and he knew he could trust them
  2. Why did Lief tell Doom and Dain about the belt? The Torans encouraged there to be no more secrets among friends, trust only
  3. What did Lief plan on using to spy on Fallow? The Dreaming Spring water

Chapter 2

  1. What creature was Fallow? An Ol
  2. Why does the Shadow Lord want to keep Lief’s parents alive? To use them against him
  3. How do the companions know that there is a spy in the Resistance? The Shadow Lord knew who Lief and Barda were

Chapter 3

  1. Explain what happened as the companions reached the exit to the valley and saw Steven’s caravan there? They tried to sneak by, but Steven’s brother thought they were a threat and started to transform out of Steven. Doom came and calmed him down
  2. How did Doom feel about Dain knowing Deltora history? He was surprised
  3. What did Dain think need to be united? The seven tribes

Chapter 4

  1. What needed to happen to renew the oath to Deltora? One person from each tribe needed to put their hands on the belt 
  2. How did the group know a person from the seven tribes? They had met them along their journey
  3. Why did the Torans allow decoys to be made of the travelers? It was a time of sacrifice for everyone

Chapter 5

  1. Summarize what happened in this chapter. Messages were being sent to the different tribes
  2. What do Steven’s songs entail? The news
  3. How did the companions travel to Del? In Steven’s caravan

Chapter 6

  1. Explain what happened to the companions when they entered the Gripper field. Man-eating plants attacked them
  2. Why did the companions need to run when Nevets attacked the Grey Guards? He would have attacked the companions as well
  3. What did Lief and Jasmine find in the stone cabin? Two adult skeletons and one baby skeleton; Endon, Sharn and their baby; the heir to the throne

Chapter 7

  1. Describe Withick Mire. Full of garbage; a place the resistance is hiding out; stinky, scavengers live there; a place the people of Del went for refuge
  2. What did Glock give to Jasmine to help stop the bleeding to wounds given by the Grippers? A grey paste
  3. Why wasn’t Barda worried about the note? He thought it was fake

Chapter 8

  1. Why did Lief always feel a pang whenever Dain and Jasmine interacted? He was jealous 
  2. Why did Barda think the note was a fake? The handwriting was the same as the last fake note; Endon didn’t have his seal with him when he fled; that is why the guards were making a roadblock at that location, to steer the companions to the hut
  3. Why does Lief think Barda is going to die? Barda isn’t stirring as frequently
  4. How many of the tribes are gathered at this point in the story? 7

Chapter 9

  1. Who is the royal heir? Dain
  2. Who took Dain? Ichabod
  3. Where was he taking him? To Del

Chapter 10

  1. Why did Steven and Barda decide to change the plan? They thought it would be better to go into with just the companions; there is a possibly spy in the group and the original plan may be spoiled
  2. What’s the new plan? The companions go in Steven’s caravan and try and get the belt to Dain 
  3. Why do you think the belt helped Barda heal? Listen to your child’s answers

Chapter 11

  1. Who had the guards captured? The resistance waiting outside the walls of the city
  2. Who do the companions think the traitor is? Doom
  3. What’s the companions plan to save Dain? Steven will let Nevets out, Lief will grab Dain and Jasmine and Barda will protect them

Chapter 12 

  1. Who betrayed the party? Dain
  2. Who is Dain? An Ol
  3. How did Lief defeat the Ol? Put the Belt of Deltora on it

Chapter 13

  1. Who does Lief think the heir to Deltora is? Jasmine
  2. Who is Doom? Her father
  3. What happened when Jasmine wore the belt? Nothing

Chapter 14

  1. Why wasn’t Lief kidnapped with Jasmine, Doom, and Barda? He’d gone to his bedroom and laid on his bed
  2. How had Fallow convinced the townspeople that the people from the different tribes were evil? They looked different and he said they were invading Del
  3. Why did Lief rearrange the gems in the belt? He knew the true power came from them being in the correct order; the order where the first letter of each gem spells Deltora

Chapter 15

  1. Why is Fallow shocked to see Doom when the hood was pulled off? He thought it would be Lief
  2. What did the Shadow Lord do when he saw Lief jump and try to give Jasmine the belt? He tried to strike Lief with lightning
  3. What does Lief realize when he puts on the belt? That he is the heir

Chapter 16

  1. Who are Lief’s parents? The real King Endon and Queen Sharn
  2. Why was it important for Lief to not know who he really was? He was safer
  3. How did Lief get Jasmine to stay? He told her she was needed

Comprehension Questions – How to Eat Fried Worms

How to Eat Fried Worms

by Thomas Rockwell

Grades 3-7; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts: 2.0

Because of a bet, Billy is in the uncomfortable position of having to eat fifteen worms in fifteen days. The worms are supplied by his opponent, whose motto is "The bigger and juicier, the better!" At first Billy's problem is whether or not he can swallow the worm placed before him, even with a choice of condiments from peanut butter to horseradish. But later it looks as if Billy will win, and the challenge becomes getting to the worm to eat it.

Comprehension Questions

Chapter I

  1. What started the bet? Tom wouldn’t eat his dinner the night before p.1
  2. What was the bet? Billy would eat 15 worms for $50 p.5

Chapters II & III

  1. Why didn’t Tom think it was fair for Alan and Joe to get the first worm out of the manure pile? It wasn’t fair to ask Billy to eat a worm with manure on it; it’s unsafe and disgusting p.6
  2. What type of worm did Alan and Joe choose as the first worm Billy should eat? A night crawler p.9

Chapter IV

  1. What’s Billy’s motivation for eating 15 worms? He wants to buy a minibike p.15
  2. Why did Billy pretend to be crazy after eating the first worm? To tease and scare his friends p.17
  3. Would you bet eating 15 worms if you could get $50? Listen to your child’s answer

Chapters V-IX

  1. Why doesn’t Billy like eating the worms? He doesn’t like the thought of them p.27
  2. Is Tom being a good friend to Billy? Listen to your child’s response p.28

Chapters X-XII

  1. Why did Tom think Joe was lying about his dad and mom? He saw they were laughing when they were trying to fake sneeze p.39
  2. Does Billy believe Tom? Sort of p.40
  3. Why didn’t Tom want to eat the worm Billy challenged him to eat? It’s yucky and gross p.44

Chapters XIII-XV

  1. Why is Alan concerned about losing the bet? He knew his dad wouldn’t let him get his money out of the bank p.49
  2. Why did Billy’s father think Billy’s stomach was upset? He ate too much ketchup and mustard p.57
  3. What conclusion can be drawn from Billy’s father calling Poison Control? Worms aren’t poisonous or harmful to eat p.58

Chapters XVI-XIX

  1. Why doesn’t Billy have any problems eating worms now? He’s not scared they’re going to hurt him anymore p.62
  2. How did Alan and Joe try to cheat? Glued two worms together p.64

Chapters XX-XXI

  1. Why did Alan and Joe come to visit Billy’s mom? They wanted to let her know about the bet (hoping it would ruin it) and asked her to referee Billy while they were gone p.70
  2. How did Billy’s mom cook the worms? His dad suggested using a French cookbook and she made Alsatian Smothered Worm p.75
  3. Did Billy’s family react the way Alan and Joe hoped they would? No p.75

Chapters XXII-XVII

  1. How did Alan and Joe distract Billy? Taking him to Shea Stadium and filling him up with all sorts of yummy junk food until almost midnight p.80
  2. Who reminded Billy of the bet? His mom p.83
  3. Who found the thirteenth worm? Pete, Tom’s little brother p.85

Chapters XVIII-XXXI

  1. What was the consequence of Alan and Joe trying to trick and distract Billy? They had to go to each neighbor and apologize for Billy waking them up in the middle of the night with the siren; no television or dessert for a month; no allowance for two weeks p.91
  2. What did the dads do after the boys got in a fight? Sat them down, made them talk things out, then took them for ice cream p.96
  3. What was the letter that was sent to Mrs. Forrester? A letter from their doctor saying he’d read that eating worms was bad for you p.98

Chapters XXXII-XLI

  1. How did Mr. Forrester know the letter was a fake? Alan and Joe used words with the wrong definitions p.101
  2. How did Billy know the 15th worm Alan and Joe gave him was a fake? He burped up beans instead of worm p.105
  3. Who gave Billy the fifteenth worm? Tom’s little brother again, Pete p.115

Comprehension Questions – The Trumpet of the Swan

The Trumpet of the Swan

by E.B. White

Grades 3-5; Genre - Fiction; GRL R; AR pts: 6.0

Louis, a romantic swan, is in love with the angelic Serena, but he can't tell her how he feels; he has no voice. When he meets eleven-year-old Sam Beaver, a human friend, he goes to school with him to learn how to read and write. Louis' father also helps out; he steals a brass trumpet for his son. In the end, Louis learns to play, wins Serena's heart, and repays the music shop owner for his stolen trumpet.

Comprehension Questions (by Steve)

Chapter 1

  1. Where was Sam camping and what was it like? Canada; a big wilderness.  Pg 2.
  2. Where was home for Sam and his father?  A cattle ranch in Montana. Pg. 4.
  3. Why did Sam want to return in thirty-five days? It takes that long to hatch swan eggs. Pg 6.
  4. What are baby swans called? Cygnets. Pg 7.

Chapter 2

  1. Describe a trumpeter swan? Large white, black bill, black feet, makes “Ko-hoh!” sound. Pg 12.
  2. Why was the nesting spot perfect? Surrounded by water. Pg13.
  3. What is a male swan? A cob. Pg. 14.
  4. How did the swans feel about their 6 foot nest? Proud and happy. Pg 16.

Chapter 3

  1.  What did the swans think boys do? Throw stones and sticks. Pg20.
  2. How did the cob think the swan felt about sitting on eggs? It was onerous or irksome. Pg 23.
  3. What happened when the swan got a drink of water? The Red Fox tried to steal eggs. Pg. 25.
  4. Who saved the swan? Sam Beaver with a stick. Pg 25.

Chapter 4

  1. What do baby swans have to break open the shells? A powerful neck muscle and a dagger tooth. Pg 30.
  2. What did Sam use to see the swans from a distance? Field glasses. Pg. 33.
  3. How do they swim? Cob first, cygnets in a line, mother last. Pg. 36.
  4. How did the last cygnet greet Sam? It untied his shoe lace. Pg. 39.

Chapter 5

  1. What did the parent swans never hear Louis do? Beep or burble. Pg. 42.
  2. Why did they think this was serious? He wouldn’t attract a mate. Pg. 44.
  3. What did the cob tell Louis about being dumb? Two meanings; not smart and not able to speak. Pg. 49.
  4. What was the advantage in not being able to speak? Makes you a good listener. Pg. 50.

Chapter6

  1. Where are the swans going for winter? South to Red Rock Lakes, Montanan. Pg. 54.
  2. What is special about Red Rock Lakes? Warm water from a hidden spring. Pg. 54.
  3. What are the three parts of flying? The takeoff, the ascent, and the leveling off. Pg. 55.
  4. What did Louis fear would happen if he couldn’t fly? Be left behind and starve. Pg. 58.

Chapter 7

  1. What did Louis decide he should do since he couldn’t use his voice? Learn to read and write. Pg. 62
  2. Who did Sam’s father need to check with for the swan to stay? The game warden. Pg. 67.
  3. Why did Mrs. Hammerbotham say swans don’t need to read & write? They don’t communicate. Pg. 68.
  4. How did Mrs. Hammergotham discover Louis name? He shook his head when asked. Pg. 71.
  5. What grade was Sam in and what lesson was he learning? Fifth, arithmetic. Pg. 75.

Chapter 8

  1. Why did the cob not go search for Louis? There were too many directions he could have gone. Pg. 79.
  2. How long was Louis gone? One year and a half. Pg 81.
  3. With whom did Louis realize he could converse with the slate? People not animals. Pg. 85.
  4. What did Louis mother see him do? Unable to talk to Serena that he loved. Pg. 88.

Chapter 9

  1. Where did the cob go to get a trumpet? A music store in Billings. Pg. 91.
  2. How did he get the trumpet? Dove into the glass window and took it. Pg. 92.
  3. How did the cob feel about stealing? Bad for his honor; good to help his son. Pg. 95.
  4. Why did the cob steal the trumpet? He had no money. Pg. 98.

Chapter 10

  1. Why did the young females start to notice Louis? Because he carried things around his neck. Pg. 99.
  2. Where did Louis go for help with the trumpet? To Sam Beaver at the Bar Nothing Ranch. Pg.103.
  3. What songs did Louis learn to play? Reveille, mess call, and taps. Pg. 107.

Chapter 11

  1. How did Mr. Brickle introduce Louis? Louis the Swan, a musician. Pg. 113.
  2. What did Applegate say? He didn’t like birds. Pg. 114.
  3. What does Kookooskoos mean? An Indian word for Great Horned Owl. Pg. 115.

Chapter 12

  1. Why was the skunk in trouble? He had a can from the dump stuck on his head. Pg. 120.
  2. How did Sam help the skunk? He used a fishing pole with a looped line. Pg. 123.
  3. Why did Applegate go out alone in the canoe? He was mad at the other boys for mocking his name. Pg. 125.
  4. Why couldn’t Louis fly out to help? His flight feathers fall out in summer. Pg. 127.

Chapter 13

  1. What is the difference between a trumpet and a bugle? A bugle has no valves. Pg. 134.
  2. Why couldn’t Louis play the trumpet valves? Because he had webbed feet. Pg. 135.
  3. What did Louis compose for Serena? A love song. Pg. 138.

Chapter 14

  1. How did the Swan Boat move? A paddle wheel by pedaling like a bike. Pg. 144.
  2. What song did Louis play in front of the Swan boat? Row, row, row your boat. Pg. 145.
  3. Why did Louis need money? Because his father was in debt for stealing the trumpet. Pg. 147.
  4. Why did the Boatman want Louis to stay at the Ritz? Because the park wasn’t safe at night. Pg. 148.

Chapter 15

  1. What did the boatman tell the clerk Louis was? A celebrity. Pg. 151.
  2. What convinced the clerk that Louis was a celebrity? The girls wanted his autograph. Pg. 152.
  3. What did the bellboy and the waiter want from Louis? A tip. Pgs. 158, 161.
  4. What did Louis send Sam in the letter? The newspaper clipping. Pg. 164.

Chapter 16

  1. Why did Louis go to Philadelphia?  He got a telegram job offer from Abe Lucky Lucas. Pg. 169.
  2. What surgery was performed on birds in the Lagoon and why? Pinioned, so they can’t fly. Pg.175.
  3. Why was Louis not going to be pinioned? He would give a free Sunday concert. Pg. 176.

Chapter 17

  1. Why did Serena fly to Bird Lake at the Zoo? A storm blew her off course. Pg. 182.
  2. Who stole Louis’ Trumpet? The Wood Duck. Pg. 187.
  3. What song did Louis wake Serena with? Beautiful Dreamer. Pg. 189.
  4. How did the swans show that they liked each other? They placed their necks over the others’ neck. Pg. 197.

Chapter 18

  1. What did Louis do to the keepers? Jabbed one in the behind and beat one with his wing. Pgs. 201, 202.
  2. What did Louis tell the Head Man about safety? “Safety is all well and good: I prefer freedom.” Pg. 206.
  3. What 2 favors did Louis ask the Head Man? #1 to leave Serena alone until Christmas, #2 to send a telegram to Sam Beaver. Pg. 206.
  4. What was Sam’s plan? For Louis to donate cygnets that need extra security to the zoo. Pg. 210.

Chapter 19

  1. What did Sam say would happen to Louis in captivity? He would pine away. He would die. Pg. 215.
  2. Why did the Head Man think animals had it easier than men? They didn’t have to buy things. Pg. 218.
  3. Why were warning messages sent at the airport? Because there were swans on the airstrip. Pg. 221.
  4. Why would Louis be triumphant when he returned? He was famous, had money. Pg. 224.

Chapter 20

  1. Why was the cob’s wife worried about him going to the music store? It was dangerous. The storekeeper might shoot him again.  Pg. 227.
  2. Where was Alfred Gore going? To the candy store because he was thirsty.  Pg. 234.
  3. How did the doctor classify the cob’s wound and what did the cob think it meant? Superficial; He thought that meant very serious. Pg. 237.

Chapter 21

  1. Where did Louis and Serena go to nest? Back to the woods in Canada. Pg. 243.
  2. What did Serena like about Boston? The Ritz. Pg. 246.
  3. Did Sam ever tell his dad where Louis lived? No. pg. 250.

Comprehension Questions – Stuart Little

Stuart Little

by E.B. White

Grades 4-5; Genre – Fiction; GRL R; AR pts: 3.0

"When Mrs. Frederick C. Little's second son arrived, everybody noticed that he was not much bigger than a mouse. The truth of the matter was, the baby looked very much like a mouse in every way." So begins E.B. White's tale of a sensitive, erudite mouse that is somehow born to a family of humans.

Vocabulary

Comprehension Questions

Chapter 1

  1. Why did Stuart’s mother send for the doctor? He only gained a third of an ounce pg 3
  2. Why did Stuart go down the drain? To find his mother’s ring pg 4
  3. How did the family feel when Stuart recovered the ring? That he was “awfully good” pg 6

Chapter 2

  1. How did Stuart help around the house? Retrieving ping-pong balls, sticky piano keys pg 7
  2. Why did they tear up the nursery rhyme? Stuart would feel badly about carving knives pg 9
  3. Why did they change “The Night before Christmas” words? It would embarrass Stuart pg 10

Chapter 3

  1. Every morning what does Stuart do with George first thing? Touch toes 10 times pg 13
  2. How did Stuart turn on the bathroom light? Long string to light chain pg 14
  3. How did Stuart turn on the water faucet? 3 strikes with a little hammer pg 16

Chapter 4

  1. What did Stuart argue with Snowbell over? Who had stronger stomach muscles pg 18
  2. What happened when he jumped on the window shade ring? Rolled up inside pg 19
  3. What did Snowbell do? Placed Stuart’s things in front of mouse hole pg 20

Chapter 5

  1. What did George want to do to find Stuart? Rip up the floor pg 21
  2. What did they end up doing? All called together and waited to hear his answer pg 22
  3. Why did George pull down the shades? To respect Stuart who was “dead” pg 25

Chapter 6

  1. What did Stuart watch out for when outside? Dogs pg 27
  2. How did Stuart step up onto a bus? He held onto a man’s pants pg 28
  3. What boat did Stuart want to sail on and beat? The Wasp, The Lillian B. Womarth  pg 33

Chapter 7

  1. What accident happened at the beginning of the race? The policeman fell into the water pg 38
  2. What did the policeman cause? A big wave pg 39
  3. What caused the crash between the boats? A paper bag pg 43
  4. Why did Stuart win? He sailed the Wasp “straight and true” pg 45

Chapter 8

  1. How did Stuart catch bronchitis? He got locked in the refrigerator pg 47
  2. What did Stuart do for Margalo? Take her temperature pg 52
  3. What did Stuart do to Snowbell’s ear? Shoot it with an arrow pg 55

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Stuart jump into the garbage can? To avoid the Irish Terrier pg 57
  2. Where was the garbage truck going? To dump the load on the scow pg 60
  3. Why was Stuart sad that he might die? He would miss his home pg 61

Chapter 10

  1. What did the Angora cat tell Snowbell? You have more self-control than me pg 69
  2. Who overheard the plot to kill Margalo? The pigeon pg 71
  3. What did Margalo do when she read the note? Fly away pg 71

Chapter 11

  1. Why did Stuart run away from home? To look for Margalo pg 73
  2. Who did he go see for advice? Dr. Carey pg 75
  3. Why wouldn’t Stuart’s car attract attention? It was invisible pg 79

Chapter 12

  1. Why were the scholars delighted at #7 School? They would have a substitute for                         Mrs. Gunderson pg 87
  2. What would fix the world being in a lot of trouble? A chairman of the world pg 92
  3. What would be a fine law? Absolutely no being mean pg 94

Chapter 13

  1. What did Stuart want to drink? Sarsaparilla pg 102
  2. Who did the storekeeper want Stuart to meet? Harriet Ames pg 103
  3. What did Stuart invite Harriet to do? Paddle in his canoe pg 110

Chapter 14

  1. What were the paddles for the canoe? wooden ice cream spoons pg 114
  2. Why did Stuart keep changing his shirts? Nervous perspiration pg 118
  3. How did the evening on the river end? It was ruined pg 124

Chapter 15

  1. How much gas did Stuart want? Five drops pg 125
  2. What direction did the repairman say is not making any mistakes? North pg 12

Comprehension Questions without Answers

Chapter 1

  1. Why did Stuart’s mother send for the doctor?
  2. Why did Stuart go down the drain?
  3. How did the family feel when Stuart recovered the ring?

Chapter 2

  1. How did Stuart help around the house?
  2. Why did they tear up the nursery rhyme?
  3. Why did they change “The Night before Christmas” words?

Chapter 3

  1. Every morning what does Stuart do with George first thing?
  2. How did Stuart turn on the bathroom light?
  3. How did Stuart turn on the water faucet?

Chapter 4

  1. What did Stuart argue with Snowbell over?
  2. What happened when he jumped on the window shade ring?
  3. What did Snowbell do?

Chapter 5

  1. What did George want to do to find Stuart?
  2. What did they end up doing?
  3. Why did George pull down the shades?

Chapter 6

  1. What did Stuart watch out for when outside?
  2. How did Stuart step up onto a bus?
  3. What boat did Stuart want to sail on and beat?

Chapter 7

  1. What accident happened at the beginning of the race?
  2. What did the policeman cause?
  3. What caused the crash between the boats?
  4. Why did Stuart win?

Chapter 8

  1. How did Stuart catch bronchitis?
  2. What did Stuart do for Margalo?
  3. What did Stuart do to Snowbell’s ear?

Chapter 9

  1. Why did Stuart jump into the garbage can?
  2. Where was the garbage truck going?
  3. Why was Stuart sad that he might die?

Chapter 10

  1. What did the Angora cat tell Snowbell?
  2. Who overheard the plot to kill Margalo?
  3. What did Margalo do when she read the note?

Chapter 11

  1. Why did Stuart run away from home?
  2. Who did he go see for advice?
  3. Why wouldn’t Stuart’s car attract attention?

Chapter 12

  1. Why were the scholars delighted at #7 School?
  2. What would fix the world being in a lot of trouble?
  3. What would be a fine law?

Chapter 13

  1. What did Stuart want to drink?
  2. Who did the storekeeper want Stuart to meet?
  3. What did Stuart invite Harriet to do?

Chapter 14

  1. What were the paddles for the canoe?
  2. Why did Stuart keep changing his shirts?
  3. How did the evening on the river end?

Chapter 15

  1. How much gas did Stuart want?
  2. What direction did the repairman say is not making any mistakes?