Education Holes An Instructional Guide: Lessons that teach close reading and story analysis

Cross-curricular activities that build comprehension for grades four through eight.

Product Overview:

You see reluctant readers turn pages slowly, checking out each sentence. This guide gives them short, structured tasks that change how they read. It pairs with the Louis Sachar novel to teach story elements and close reading. Designed for teachers and tutors working with grades four through eight, it fits busy schedules. You get lessons for vocabulary, text-dependent questions, and short research tasks that spark conversation. A seventy-two page booklet keeps activities digestible and class-ready, no extra prep required. Picture a classroom where students talk about theme, not just plot, and you breathe easier.

Key Features:

• Standards-aligned lessons: Short, scaffolded lessons that match curriculum standards and guide students toward deeper comprehension.
• Close reading practice: Text-dependent questions pull students into the text so they notice language and infer meaning.
• Vocabulary and writing: Built-in vocabulary tasks connect words to context and give quick writing prompts for assessment.
• Cross-curricular projects: Activities link research, geography and math where relevant, making the story useful beyond language arts.
• Teacher resources: Clear teacher notes and answer keys save prep time and help you adapt lessons quickly.

Quick Specs:

• Brand: Shell Education
• Item#: SHL-40207
• Format/Type: Printed Book
• Quantity/Pack: 1 Each
• Compatibility/Use: 4-8
• Country of Origin: United States

Hear discussions deepen, feel the calm of smoother lessons, and see reading skills grow-would you like a copy to try these ready-to-use activities in your classroom?