Reading Improvement Hints Used in Sidney Second Grade

Reading tip: Story maps can help you understand stories. Use a "story map" to help you understand a story.

If the teacher asks you, "Did you understand the story?" think:
• What was the setting?
• Who were the characters?
• What was the problem?
• How did the major characters want to solve the problem?
• What steps did they take to try to solve the problem?
• In the end, was the problem solved?

If you can answer these questions about a story you probably understand it.

Next time: How do you know if you REALLY understand a story?

Learning activity.

Think of a character you would like to write or talk about. Draw a picture of the character. Answer some or all of the following questions. You may write the answers or just tell about them.

• What is the character's name?
• Where does the character live?
• What is the character's problem?
• Did the character solve the problem? How?

Example 1: By a Sidney Second Grader:

Picture of Miss Mess Up

This is Miss Mess Up. Her hair kept getting out of control! It was always in her eyes. She tripped down the stairs and she never went to school. She was hot!

Example 2: By a Sidney Second Grader:

The Bat

This bat eats fish and insects. His name is batmeister. His problem is he can't catch his food. His wing is broken. Can you help? What would you do?

• A. Put a band aid on it.
• B. Take him to the emergency room.
• C. Feed him to the cat.

Send suggestions and comments to the above students by selecting the link below.

Notice the latitude given in interpreting the directions. Be flexible.

Suggestions and Comments