No Glamour Auditory-Processing

Skill Area: Auditory Processing
Ages: 5 through 11
Grades: K through 6
Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.
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About the Authors
back, left to right: Lauri Whiskeyman, Kelly Malone, Nancy McConnell, Paul Johnson, Barb Truman
front, left to right: Linda Bowers, Karen Stontz, Rosemary Huisingh, Carolyn LoGiudice
This spirited group of writers from LinguiSystems collaborated on

No-Glamour Auditory Processing. Together they have many years
of experience educating and working with both the young and the
old to improve their listening and general language processing skills.
In true LinguiSystems style, these authors also make it a priority to
have fun with life and our language and hope that this philosophy is
reflected throughout these pages.
Illustrations: Margaret Warner

Page layout: Christine Buysse
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Auditory Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Phonological Awareness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Absurd Sentences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Absurd Paragraphs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Problem Solving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Riddles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Following Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Exclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Main Idea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
News Comprehension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Radio/TV Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
Everyday Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260
Story Comprehension
The Surprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Jake’s Loose Tooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277
Frog and His Big Mouth . . . . . . . . . . . . .280
The King with Dirty Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . .285
Animals and Their Colors . . . . . . . . . . . .291
Jefferson Davis McDaniel . . . . . . . . . . . .294
No-Glamour Auditory Processing 3 Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.

Introduction
Although No-Glamour Auditory Processing isn’t glamorous, it’s far from dull! We’ve
written each and every page knowing that students (and teachers!) like to have fun.
No-Glamour Auditory Processing gives students the opportunity to hone their listening
skills at many levels while practicing other language skills which are integral to listening
perceptions and comprehension.
For each of the 15 sections, you’ll get 15 to 25 pages of activities. These range from
listening and responding to listening and paraphrasing, problem solving, and
remembering details. Throughout each section you’ll get a hierarchy of stimuli from
easiest to most difficult. You’ll also get a nice variety of ways your students respond to
what they hear. However you use No-Glamour Auditory Processing, your students will
find each activity intriguing and involving.
Besides using the activities in direct instruct, try No-Glamour Auditory Processing for:
• 10-minute take home assignments

• general classroom listening improvement
• parent-student instruction (sent home with the student to improve
student AND parent listening skills)
• teaching English as a second language
• peer teaching
• student mentor teaching with a younger, language delayed student
• portfolio entries
Finally, we hope you find No-Glamour Auditory Processing comprehensive. This

chock-full-of-stuff book was a great team effort so we could bring you enough auditory
processing activities for years to come. Go ahead, use it like you would the Yellow
Pages . . . over and over again until it’s all worn out.
Carolyn, Paul, Lauri, Barb, Karen, Rosemary, Linda, Kelly, Nancy

Auditory Reception 1
Answer yes or no to each question.
1. Do cats bark? no
2. Do fish swim? yes
3. Is salt green? no
4. Is a feather heavy? no
5. Do butterflies melt? no
6. Is sugar sweet? yes
7. Do legs bend? yes

8. Does a snake hop? no
9. Is hair smart? no
10. Does a baby cry? yes
11. Can you shut a door? yes
12. Does a chair have wings? no
13. Is the moon round? yes
14. Does a fly use a spoon? no
15. Do you blow out a candle? yes
16. Does a balloon pop? yes
17. Is water dry? no

18. Does the sun shine? yes
19. Can you comb a picture? no
20. Does a train fly? no
21. Can you wear a belt? yes
22. Can a rash itch? yes
23. Does a bell sing? no
24. Is a hot dog angry? no
25. Does a phone ring? yes
Auditory Reception
Answer yes or no to each question.
1. Does a turkey say “moo”? no
2. Can water boil? yes
3. Does a book have pages? yes
4. Can you pop corn? yes
5. Does a lemon brush? no
6. Can a street sleep? no
7. Is a kitten young? yes

8. Does a ball write? no
9. Can a clock have hands? yes
10. Does a pencil pull? no
11. Does an elephant have a tail? yes
12. Do your eyes chew? no
13. Can you save money? yes
14. Can a spoon rip? no
15. Does a tiger have stripes? yes
16. Does a window stretch? no
17. Is a quarter worth 50 cents? no

18. Can an icicle drip? yes
19. Does a duck quack? yes
20. Is a ribbon thirsty? no
21. Is a bridge ripe? no
22. Can you wiggle a finger? yes
23. Does a mailbox have water? no
24. Is a lime a vehicle? no
25. Can a snail move? yes
Auditory Reception
Teacher note: To increase the complexity of this task, ask your students to explain why a
sentence is false and/or to correct each false sentence to make it true.
Tell me if each sentence is true or false (not true).
1. A lion has wheels. false

2. A needle is sharp. true
3. Letters need stamps. true
4. Pretzels are sweet. false
5. Cats have claws. true
6. A rainbow is straight lines of color. false
7. An egg has corners. false
8. A picnic is a meal you eat outside. true
9. You use a toothbrush to sweep a floor. false
10. You sit down to make a lap. true
11. Cheese is a dairy product. true
12. A banana has a pocket. false
13. You can eat carrots raw or cooked. true
14. Raisins used to be grapes. true
15. Bees make music. false
16. Songs are for eating. false
17. Spring comes after winter. true
18. A robin is a vegetable. false
19. A dishwasher washes clothes. false
20. Narrow is the opposite of wide. true
21. Most dogs can whistle. false
22. When you’re hungry, you need sleep. false
23. You can use ribbon to make a bow on a birthday present. true
24. A TV is never loud. false
25. Lightning goes with thunder. true
Auditory Reception
Teacher note: To increase the complexity of this task, ask your students to explain why a
sentence is false and/or to correct each false sentence to make it true.
Tell me if each sentence is true or false (not true).
1. A computer has a keyboard. true

2. You lie down to ride a merry-go-round. false
3. Piggy banks come from pig farms. false
4. A snowman can’t run. true
5. French fries are made from rice. false
6. Elephants are larger than gorillas. true
7. When someone gives you a present, you say, “I’m sorry.” false
8. Dinosaurs were scared of trucks. false
9. A river can overflow. true
10. A cousin can be a boy or a girl. true
11. Venus is a planet. true
12. A mail carrier delivers babies. false
13. A clock can clap its hands. false
14. Your shadow disappears in the dark. true
15. A doctor recycles broken bones. false
16. An ocean is shallow, but a river is deep. false
17. Raindrops are made of ice. false
18. A hum is quieter than a shout. true
19. A doorbell asks a question before you answer it. false
20. It hardly ever rains in a desert. true
21. Both lions and zebras have stripes. false
22. A hospital has many prisoners. false
23. Spiders spin cobwebs. true
24. A dozen means the same as eleven. false
25. You were older yesterday than you are today. false
Auditory Reception
Answer these questions.
1. Who teaches students? teacher
2. Who flies a plane? pilot
3. Who puts out fires? firefighter
4. Who directs traffic? police officer
5. Who cuts and styles hair? hair stylist, barber, hairdresser
6. Who prepares meals in a restaurant? chef, cook
7. Who writes books? author, writer

8. Who makes people laugh at a circus? clown
9. Who makes sick people well? doctor, healer
10. Who travels in outer space? astronaut
11. Who designs buildings? architect
12. Who sings on the stage? singer, vocalist
13. Who takes pictures? photographer
14. Who sells things in a store? salesperson
15. Who delivers the mail? mail carrier
16. Who is in charge of a school? principal
17. Who takes care of the animals at a zoo? zookeeper

18. Who helps people check out books at a library? librarian
19. Who lives next door to you? neighbor
20. Who performs magic for an audience? magician
21. Who dances on a stage? dancer, ballerina
22. Who plays a role in a movie? actor, actress, star
23. Who crosses the finish line first in a race? winner
24. Who tells us what the weather will be? weather forecaster
25. Who raises crops? farmer
Auditory Reception
1. Who cuts, grinds, and chops meat? butcher
2. Who steals things from people? robber, thief, criminal
3. Who paints portraits or pictures? artist, painter
4. Who helps a doctor take care of patients? nurse
5. Who does operations in a hospital? surgeon
6. Who takes care of our teeth? dentist, dental hygienist
7. Who is married to a bride? groom

8. Who plays the piano professionally? pianist
9. Who writes poems? poet
10. Who searches for dinosaur bones? archaeologist
11. Who repairs wires and appliances? electrician
12. Who repairs pipes and sinks? plumber
13. Who fills prescriptions for people? pharmacist
14. Who helps people buy or sell a house? Realtor
15. Who protects forests? forest ranger, park ranger
16. Who helps people make long-distance phone calls? operator
17. Who holds the highest elected office in a city? mayor

18. Who rents apartments to tenants? landlord
19. Who helps people with legal problems? lawyer, attorney
20. Who is someone brave whom people respect and admire? hero, heroine
21. Who writes or tells about current events? reporter
22. Who makes or repairs furniture? carpenter
23. Who trains lions to do tricks? lion trainer, animal trainer
24. Who takes care of kids while parents are away? baby-sitter
25. Who has a niece or a nephew? aunt, uncle
Auditory Reception
Teacher note: Sample answers are listed here, however, you may accept other appropriate
responses. Ask your students to explain answers that don’t seem logical at first.
Tell me all the answers you can for each question.
1. What bounces? ball
2. What hops? rabbit, kangaroo, person, frog
3. What cries? baby, person
4. What cleans hair? shampoo
5. What sweeps? broom, vacuum cleaner
6. What shows the time? clock, watch, sundial
7. What flies? bird, butterfly, bee, insect, time
8. What itches? rash, insect bite, hive, skin
9. What can you draw? picture, card
10. What has two wheels? bicycle, motorcycle
11. What has a handle? pot, pan, bucket, basket, mug, cup, broom, shovel
12. What has a screen? TV, computer, window, door
13. What is in the sky? moon, sun, stars, airplane, cloud, lightning, rainbow, bird
14. What melts? ice, ice cream, snow, chocolate, candy
15. What is sharp? knife, scissors, pencil point, safety pin, thumbtack, corner
16. What can you read? book, magazine, newspaper
17. What has keys? lock, car, piano, keyboard
18. What floats? wood, boat, soap, bubbles, plastic cup, raft, inner tube
19. What can you do with paper? curl it, fold it, rip it, write on it, draw on it, shred it, recycle
it, wad it up, cut it, tear it, glue it, staple it
20. What can wiggle? worm, snake, finger, toe, person, Jell-O ®
Auditory Reception
Tell me all the answers you can for each question.
1. What can you pour? any liquid
2. What heats a room when it’s cold outside? furnace, fire, heater
3. What stretches? elastic, person, gum, T-shirt
4. What zips? zipper, jacket, skirt, pants, boots, pencil holder, plastic storage bag
5. What can you squeeze? orange, lemon, hand, water gun trigger, your eyes, juice
container, plastic bottle, sponge
6. What do you peel? banana, apple, peach, potato, orange
7. What sparkles? diamond, star, reflection, glitter
8. What can you borrow? library book, pencil, money, crayons, scissors
9. What holds things together? paper clip, staple, tape, glue, paste, snap, hinge
10. What makes a loud sound? siren, school bell, buzzer, jack hammer, explosion, thunder
11. What comes in pairs? glasses, scissors, eyes, ears, pants, legs, twins
12. What is made from milk? dairy products, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, cottage cheese
13. What has a pedal? bicycle, piano, organ, harp, motorcycle
14. What is transparent? glass, plastic wrap, window, air
15. What is a school subject? mathematics, history, social studies, English, Spanish,
reading, spelling, language arts, PE, music
16. What has legs? chair, table, couch, person, animal, insect
17. What can you play? musical instrument, game
18. What can you recycle? paper, plastic, aluminum, glass, newspaper
19. What helps people measure things? ruler, yardstick, measuring tape
20. What do you need to wrap a present? ribbon, wrapping paper, tape
Auditory Reception
Answer these questions about places.
1. Where do you keep milk? refrigerator
2. Where do you keep toothpaste? bathroom, medicine cabinet
3. Where do people keep their money? wallet, purse, piggy bank, bank, drawer, jar
4. Where can you see yourself? mirror, reflection in window or water, pictures, videotape
5. Where could you see a lion? jungle, zoo, Africa
6. Where could you borrow books? library
7. Where could you get a tooth pulled? dentist’s office, oral surgery clinic
8. Where could you see a clown? circus, parade, TV, fair
9. Where do you cross the street? crosswalk
10. Where do you wear a seat belt? car, airplane, amusement park ride
11. Where could you watch a movie? theater, auditorium, on TV, friend’s home
12. Where could you buy a pencil? stationery store, grocery store, drugstore, variety store,
vending machine
13. Where could you find your neighbor’s phone number? phone book, call information
14. Where could you check today’s date? calendar, watch, computer
15. Where do you find seashells? beach, ocean, shore, shell store
16. Where does a carrot grow? garden, in/below the ground
17. Where do you mail a letter? post office, mailbox
18. Where could you find out the weather for tomorrow? newspaper, TV, radio, telephone
weather report
19. Where does an astronaut travel? outer space
20. Where could you see your shadow? outside in the sunlight, in bright light
21. Where could you find a water fountain? park, public building, large store, hospital, mall,
airport
22. Where do people clap? theater, auditorium, along a parade, school performance, recital
Auditory Reception
Answer these questions about when things happen.
1. When do people cry? when they’re sad or afraid, when they get hurt
2. When do people eat breakfast? in the morning
3. When do you use an elevator? when you want to travel from floor to floor in a building
4. When do people drink water? when they’re thirsty
5. When do you go to the doctor? when you need a checkup, when you’re sick, when you
break or injure something
6. When do people wave? when they see a friend or say good-bye to someone
7. When is a tadpole grown up? when it’s a frog
8. When do you see stars in the sky? at night, when it’s a clear night
9. When do you blow out the candles on your birthday cake? after people sing “Happy
Birthday” to you
10. When do you put a stamp on an envelope? when you want to mail a letter
11. When do leaves fall off trees? autumn or fall, during a storm
12. When is it safe to cross the street? when no cars are coming, when the WALK light is
on, when the officer tells you it’s okay to cross
13. When do you wash your clothes? when they’re dirty
14. When is it noon? at 12 o’clock p.m.
15. When do people visit hospital patients? during visiting hours
16. When does a woman become an aunt? when she has a niece or a nephew
17. When do you stop for a traffic light? when the light is red
18. When do you see a rainbow? when the sun shines while it rains
19. When do you turn a year older? on your birthday
20. When do you line up quietly and walk outside the school building? fire drill, recess
21. When did dinosaurs live? a long time ago
22. When is it leap year? in a year when February has 29 days
Auditory Reception
1. Which TV show do you like best? Answers will vary.
2. Which body part has toes? foot
3. Which color is your favorite? Answers will vary.
4. Which snack do you like best? Answers will vary.
5. Which is a boy’s name, Jenny or Michael? Michael
6. Which is a higher number, thirty or fifty? fifty
7. Which is brighter, the sun or the moon? sun

8. Which is smaller, a mouse or a peanut? peanut
9. Which is smoother, an apple or a pineapple? apple
10. Which is louder, a scream or a sigh? scream
11. Which is softer, a pencil or a kitten? kitten
12. Which is colder, a snowman or a glass of lemonade? snowman
13. Which is rounder, an egg or a box? egg
14. Which is more expensive, a box of crayons or a backpack? backpack
15. Which is an appliance, a TV or a camera? TV
16. Which is a vehicle, a subway or a horse? subway
17. Which do you wear on your wrist, a necklace or a bracelet? bracelet

18. Which has a door, a closet or a bookshelf? closet
19. Which is crisper, a cracker or an orange? cracker
20. Which is narrower, an alley or a street? alley
21. Which heats food quickly, a microwave or an air conditioner? microwave
22. Which is more flexible, a rope or a board? rope
23. Which is shallower, a pond or a lake? pond
24. Which is more dangerous for swimmers, a shark or a whale? shark
25. Which is worth more, a quarter or two dimes? quarter
Auditory Reception
1. Which is better for your health, fruit or candy bars? fruit
2. Which is longer, ten months or a year? year
3. Which is saltier, milk or pretzels? pretzels
4. Which protect your feet from the weather, boots or sandals? boots
5. Which is sharper, a knife or a screwdriver? knife
6. Which is sweeter, watermelon or scrambled eggs? watermelon
7. Which is cheaper, a watch or a pencil? pencil

8. Which does bacon come from, a pig or a cow? pig
9. Which is straighter, a road or a ruler? ruler
10. Which has more liquid, a gallon or a quart? gallon
11. Which comes first, buds or flower blossoms? buds
12. Which eats more, a snake or a cow? cow
13. Which is wider, a sidewalk or a driveway? driveway
14. Which do you blow, a thistle or a whistle? whistle
15. Which lasts longer, a storm or a shower? storm
16. Which was invented first, the car or the seat belt? car
17. Which has more energy, a battery or a plug? battery

18. Which fights cavities, a toothache or toothpaste? toothpaste
19. Which is a state, Chicago or Florida? Florida
20. Which is an animal’s home, a nest or a tent? nest
21. Which enlarges things, a toothpick or a microscope? microscope
22. Which reflects things, a mirror or a hospital? mirror
23. Which is oval, a football or a basketball? football
24. Which is someone you vote for, a hero or a candidate? candidate
25. Which is for protection, a helmet or an injury? helmet
Auditory Reception
1. Are some or all people born? all
2. Do some or all people wear glasses? some
3. Do some or all rings have diamonds? some
4. Are some or all STOP signs red and white? all
5. Can some or all people swim? some
6. Do some or all trees have leaves? some
7. Do some or all birds have feathers? all

8. Is some or all sugar sweet? all
9. Do some or all jackets have zippers? some
10. Do some or all bike riders wear helmets? some
11. Do some or all scissors have handles? all
12. Do some or all pencils have erasers? some
13. Are some or all roads long? some
14. Do some or all cats have ears? all
15. Are some or all gloves worn on hands? all
16. Do some or all clocks have numbers on them? some
17. Do some or all passengers wear seat belts? some

18. Do some or all apples have seeds? all
19. Are some or all desserts healthy foods? some
20. Are some or all oceans salt water? all
21. Do some or all storms have lightning? some
22. Do some or all libraries have books? all
23. Are some or all grapes purple? some
24. Do some or all chicken eggs have yolks? all
25. Do some or all streets have sidewalks? some
Auditory Reception
1. Are some or all sports played with a ball? some
2. Do some or all malls have stores? all
3. Are some or all washing machines for clothing? all
4. Do some or all planets have moons? some
5. Are some or all puddles on the ground? all
6. Are some or all TV shows one hour? some
7. Do some or all floods have water? all

8. Are some or all towns near lakes? some
9. Do some or all plants have flowers? some
10. Are some or all dinosaurs extinct? all
11. Are some or all snakes poisonous? some
12. Do some or all roses need water? all
13. Do some or all animals make good pets? some
14. Are some or all goldfish orange? some
15. Do some or all people need food? all
16. Are some or all forest fires accidents? some
17. Do some or all teams wear uniforms? some

18. Do some or all poems rhyme? some
19. Do some or all butterflies have wings? all
20. Are some or all bottles recyclable? Answers will vary by region.
21. Do some or all people have lungs? all
22. Do some or all boats have motors? some
23. Are some or all beaches near water? all
24. Are some or all French fries made from potatoes? all
25. Do some or all calculators have numbers? all
Auditory Reception
I’ll tell you about something. Then you tell me whether it’s always true, sometimes true, or
never true.
1. A pencil has a sharp point. sometimes

2. A bird has a beak. always
3. A baby grows a beard. never
4. Music is loud. sometimes
5. Honey comes from bees. always
6. An orange has seeds. sometimes
7. An evergreen tree has pine cones. sometimes
8. An elephant skips. never
9. A ball bounces. sometimes
10. You should look both ways before you cross a street. always
11. A salad has lettuce in it. sometimes
12. A rose blossom has petals. always
13. A magazine has pages. always
14. A snake can swim. sometimes
15. A hearing aid helps someone see better. never
16. A balloon floats away. sometimes
17. Fresh orange juice is a beverage. always
18. A rock floats. never
19. You peel a banana before you eat it. always
20. A radio has batteries. sometimes
21. A lion has stripes. never
22. Water is safe to drink. sometimes
23. A hurricane has wind. always
24. A freezer cooks food. never
25. Sunglasses have lenses. always
Auditory Reception
I’ll tell you about something. Then you tell me whether it’s always true, sometimes true, or
never true.
1. A patient in an ambulance is sick. sometimes

2. A truck is a vehicle. always
3. You use a straw to drink from a water fountain. never
4. A volcano erupts. sometimes
5. Ice is frozen. always
6. A wheel is round. always
7. A watch has hands. sometimes
8. A raccoon flies. never
9. Ketchup is red. always
10. A nephew is a male. always
11. Your birthday comes on a holiday. Answers will vary.
12. A yo-yo is ticklish. never
13. A helicopter has a propeller. always
14. A gift is wrapped in colorful paper. sometimes
15. A parrot talks. sometimes
16. A baseball game has a pitcher. always
17. A month has 31 days. sometimes
18. Thirty-six is an even number. always
19. When you divide something in half, you make two equal parts. always
20. A T-shirt is made of pure cotton. sometimes
21. Watermelon is juicy. always
22. It rains on a Thursday morning. sometimes
23. A statue uses a suitcase. never
24. A century is 100 years. always
25. A pound of stones is heavier than a pound of cotton balls. never
Auditory Reception
1. Why are scissors sharp? so they can cut things
2. Why do people use umbrellas? to keep them dry in the rain
3. Why do plants need water? so they can grow and stay alive
4. Why do we eat food? to give our bodies energy
5. Why do birds build nests? to lay their eggs in
6. Why does an ambulance have a siren? to warn drivers and others to stay out of the way
7. Why do we keep cheese in a refrigerator? so it won’t spoil
8. Why do we peel a banana before we eat it? because we can’t digest the peel
9. Why do some people wear a watch? to know what time it is
10. Why does a ball roll? it’s round
11. Why do some people use sunscreen lotion before they go out in the sun? to protect
themselves from sunburn or ultra-violet rays
12. Why do schools have fire drills? to prepare for a real fire
13. Why do people check weather reports? to know how to dress and plan activities
14. Why do doctors sometimes put a cast on someone’s broken bone? to protect it while
it heals
15. Why do some people wear glasses? to see better
16. Why does a phone ring? to let you know someone is calling you
17. Why do you need money in a store? to pay for what you buy
18. Why do you cover your mouth when you cough? so you don’t spread germs
19. Why do people wear seat belts in cars? to protect them in case there’s an accident
20. Why do some pencils have erasers? to correct mistakes
Auditory Reception
1. Why should we be careful with matches? so we don’t start a fire

2. Why do we use trash cans? so we don’t have litter all over the ground
3. Why shouldn’t you blow a balloon up too far? it will pop
4. Why do cooks in a restaurant wear hair nets? so they won’t get any hair in the food
5. Why do some jackets have a hood? to protect your head from rain, snow, wind, or
cold weather
6. Why do some people use doormats in front of their outside doors? so people can wipe
their feet before they come inside, so people won’t track mud or dirt inside
7. Why are libraries so quiet? so people can read and think without any distractions
8. Why should we try not to waste water? to take care of a natural resource, because the
water supply is limited in some areas
9. Why does drinking water often have fluoride in it? to help prevent tooth decay
10. Why do spiders spin webs? to catch insects to eat
11. Why do we put some pictures in picture frames? to protect the pictures, to display the
pictures easily
12. Why do painters mix different colors of paint together? to get the shade they want to use
13. Why does a football referee sometimes throw a flag in the air? to signal a foul or a
mistake on the field
14. Why can’t you ride a bike that has a flat tire? there isn’t enough air in the tire to keep it
round, the wheel won’t move properly
15. Why do we fold or collapse an umbrella when we’re not using it? so it’s easier to store
16. Why do some people save money? to have in case they need it, to pay for something
they want
17. Why can’t you see the stars during the day? the daylight is too bright
18. Why should you protect brightly colored clothes from the sun? sun can fade them
19. Why should you write a return address on everything you mail? so it can come back to
you if there’s any trouble delivering it to the person/company you sent it to
20. Why does a radio have a volume control? so you can adjust the loudness to the level
you want
Auditory Reception
1. How do you unlock a door? use a key, turn a bolt

2. How do you know if it’s safe to cross a street? look both ways to make sure no traffic is
coming, watch the traffic signal
3. How do you play hide and seek? Whoever is “it” hides his eyes at home base and
counts while others hide. Then “it” finds and tries to tag people before they can return to
home base.
4. How do you know if water is boiling? bubbles and the movement of the water
5. How many days are in a week? 7
6. How could you freeze lemonade? put it in a freezer
7. How can you fix an egg so you can eat it? boil it, fry it, scramble it, bake it
8. How can you see your shadow? stand with your back to the sun in a place that
isn’t shaded
9. How do you make a lap? sit down
10. How can you fasten papers together? staple them, use a paper clip, glue them
11. How is a chicken like an owl? both birds, have beaks, have claws, have feathers
12. How do you know if your watch is on time? check another watch or clock, call time on
the phone and compare it to your watch
13. How many months are in one year? 12
14. How do you call the police in an emergency? dial 911
15. How do you clean your hair? with shampoo and water
16. How do you keep yourself from getting a sunburn? use sunscreen; wear a hat and
clothing to protect your skin; avoid staying in the sun, especially during the high ultraviolet
ray times (10-3 or so)
17. How can you draw a straight line? use a ruler or a straight edge
18. How can you cook food very quickly? use a microwave
19. How do you make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Get two slices of bread. Spread
peanut butter on one slice, jelly on the other. Put the slices together with the fillings
inside. Cut the sandwich in half.
20. How many hours are in one day? 24
Auditory Reception
1. How do you find a word in the dictionary? look it up alphabetically

2. How could you find out the distance between New York City and New Orleans?
use a map
3. How can you measure the distance around a ball? use a flexible tape measure; measure
with string first, then check the string against a ruler
4. How can you find out how much you weigh? use a scale
5. How can you make a long-distance call from a pay phone if you don’t have any money
with you? use a phone calling card, use a credit card, call collect
6. How many days are there in one year? 365 (366 for leap year)
7. How do you know if the batteries in a flashlight are dead? try replacing them with fresh
batteries, try using them in something else that uses the same size batteries
8. How do you take a dog for a walk? put a leash on it
9. How should you act during a fire drill? be quiet, pay attention, follow the safety rules
10. How many eggs are there in a dozen? 12
11. How do you spell it backwards? i-t b-a-c-k-w-a-r-d-s or t-i
12. How could you see an insect’s legs more clearly? use a magnifying glass or a
microscope
13. How do you know what direction your front door faces? check its position against where
the sun rises (east) or sets (west)
14. How can a doctor tell if you have a broken bone? by taking an X-ray
15. How can you find out what movie is playing at a theater? look it up in a newspaper, call
the theater
16. How would you find a book by Thomas Edison in a library? look it up in the computer or
the card catalog
17. How can you tell how many stamps to put on a letter or a card? take it to mail at a post
office, weigh it on a postage scale
18. How do you know how many pounds of grapes you’re buying in a grocery store? weigh
the grapes on a produce scale
19. How do some people stay healthy? exercise, healthy diet, get enough sleep, lack
of stress
20. How do you show a performer you appreciate a performance? clap, cheer, stand up
while you clap
Auditory Reception
Phonological Awareness 1
I’m going to say some words. Say yes if they rhyme and no if they don’t rhyme.
1. cat hat yes 21. shelf shovel no
2. fog hog yes 22. seven eleven yes
3. sit hat no 23. star far yes
4. cake bake yes 24. cap cup no
5. set sun no 25. night light yes
6. coat goat yes 26. bag bug no
7. kite fight yes 27. sock sick no
8. cut cat no 28. snail trail yes
9. foot pool no 29. slipper zipper yes
10. late gate yes 30. bank band no
11. fair far no 31. map lap yes
12. boy toy yes 32. fist fast no
13. dug rug yes 33. field shield yes
14. cash crush no 34. comb foam yes
15. feel meal yes 35. thirty dirty yes
16. letter litter no 36. dime dome no
17. file pile yes 37. puzzle muzzle yes
18. train truck no 38. store stare no
19. flight fire no 39. school pool yes
20. crow sew yes 40. towel shovel no
Phonological Awareness
I’m going to say some words. Tell me which of the words rhyme with the first word.
Which word rhymes with _____?
1. same came pen came
2. get fan let let
3. mat can sat sat
4. pin hog tin tin
5. peg leg log leg
6. seat beat late beat
7. home comb hair comb
8. sock shoe lock lock
9. red last bed bed
10. care bear car bear
11. bug dug dirt dug
12. reed real seed seed
13. gate late greet late
14. fan man mane man
15. grab crab tap crab
16. flower shower air shower
17. plate plan crate crate
18. grape tape hope tape
19. glad happy sad sad
20. break take took take
I’m going to say some words. Tell me which word doesn’t rhyme with the others.
1. cat pat hen hen
2. pig hill big hill
3. lake hand rake hand
4. lap rope soap lap
5. sun fun fire fire
6. wet wait late wet
7. pen ten tug tug
8. fan file mile fan
9. tire high higher high
10. soon tune ton ton
11. ham home lamb home
12. honey money shiny shiny
13. hurry carry hairy hurry
14. mitten kitten fit fit
15. lane loan phone lane
16. slime lame climb lame
17. flame tame tree tree
18. pay fly sly pay
19. trick sick duck duck
20. mat match batch mat
21. smell smile pile smell
22. kind sigh mind sigh
Teacher note: Answers will vary.
I’m going to say a word. Tell me a word that rhymes with it.
What word rhymes with _____?
1. can 16. hand
2. pat 17. lick
3. dig 18. train
4. sun 19. break
5. pot 20. gash
6. cap 21. sing
7. log 22. pet
8. cob 23. horn
9. fin 24. bear
10. tame 25. feet
11. dirt 26. skip
12. fill 27. float
13. tile 28. nest
14. gate 29. store
15. light 30. flower
Listen and follow my directions.
1. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t start with /b/.
a. hat bed big hat

b. baby boot dog dog
c. book page box page
d. pretty beautiful birthday pretty
2. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t start with /s/.
a. sun sad can can

b. see said tail tail
c. chop sky sleep chop
d. shell sign secret shell
3. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t end with /p/.
a. shop pull hop pull

b. pay pipe tape pay
c. tap bike lap bike
d. tiger help hope tiger
4. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t end with /n/.
a. pan fin fight fight

b. aunt ran fun aunt
c. farm lane mean farm
d. ocean inside chicken inside
5. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t have /t/ in the middle.
a. letter monkey later monkey

b. painting beauty paper paper
c. poster father destroy father
d. daylight little after daylight
6. I’m going to say some words. Tell me which one doesn’t have /r/ in the middle.
a. bird bark boat boat

b. wave bright break wave
c. mirror carrot number number
d. always forest garage always
I’m going to say some words.
1. Which word begins with the same sound as _____?
a. pie pig sheep pig
b. dig fog dog dog
c. chop chain seven chain
d. book break pop break
e. five thumb four four
f. wobble rain wag wag
2. Which word ends with the same sound as _____?
a. hat pen sit sit
b. arm calf came came
c. hill leaf call call
d. ring sang poem sang
e. fizz hiss buzz buzz
f. catch fish hatch hatch
3. Which word has the same sound in the middle as _____?
a. ready even under under
b. happy hoping tulip hoping
c. foggy morning begin begin
d. hurricane collar hairy hairy
e. honey hunter never hunter
f. bashful missing crashing crashing
1. I’m going to say a word. Name the sound at the beginning of the word.
a. big c. first e. shout
b. new d. tried f. young
2. I’m going to say a word. Name the sound at the end of the word.
a. grab c. cave e. four
b. last d. bill f. surprise
3. I’m going to say a word. Name the sound in the middle of the word.
a. lesson c. over e. fast
b. today d. without f. part
4. I’m going to say a word. Tell me a word that begins with the same sound.
a. may c. boy e. shave
b. pie d. today f. blade
5. I’m going to say a word. Tell me a word that ends with the same sound.
a. half c. help e. fetch
b. mane d. miss f. feather
6. I’m going to say a word. Tell me a word that has the same sound in the middle.
a. hopping c. tonight e. pushing
b. decide d. city f. leather
I’m going to say two words. Put the words together to make a new word.
1. cow boy 16. grand mother
2. bare foot 17. under wear
3. short stop 18. rose bush
4. gold fish 19. life guard
5. sand box 20. day dream
6. shoe string 21. rattle snake
7. bed room 22. home work
8. sun flower 23. lady bug
9. drive way 24. base ball
10. side walk 25. bird bath
11. play ground 26. dog house
12. tip toe 27. sun glasses
13. waste basket 28. pan cake
14. rain bow 29. turtle neck
15. after noon 30. paint brush
I’m going to break some words into small parts called syllables. Put the syllables together to
make words.
1. a long
2. win ter
3. in side
4. coun try
5. to day
6. on ly
7. e ven
8. mon key
9. ex er cise
10. dif fer ent
11. hos pi tal
12. im por tant
13. de tec tive
14. beau ti ful
15. ex plor er
16. won der ful
17. ge o gra phy
18. del i cate ly
19. au to mo bile
20. ex per i ment
21. en cour ag ing
22. ex per i ence
I’m going to break some words into two parts. Put the two parts together to make a word.
1. g o 11. n ow
2. m ay 12. wor d
3. o ff 13. f eel
4. j ay 14. f ix
5. z oo 15. cl ose
6. ba t 16. br idge
7. la p 17. dr eam
8. cam p 18. hu ge
9. mea n 19. gr owl
10. wi sh 20. again st
I’m going to break some words into little parts called sounds. Put the sounds together and
tell me the word.
1. c a t 11. p u sh
2. b a ke 12. k e p t
3. b i ke 13. c i t y
4. l o t 14. s m i le
5. d u ck 15. s m a ll
6. b a t 16. m a n y
7. m i ss 17. f l oa t
8. s t ay 18. f a s t
9. o v er 19. j u n k
10. b e d 20. c a n t
I’m going to say some words. I want you to repeat only part of each word.
Say _____ but don’t say (the underlined word part).
1. backyard 21. country
2. sidewalk 22. around
3. nightmare 23. surprise
4. daydream 24. many
5. bedroom 25. ready
6. nightfall 26. arrow
7. countdown 27. between
8. lunchroom 28. exercise
9. backpack 29. important
10. lifeguard 30. detective
11. junkyard 31. library
12. newspaper 32. favorite
13. earphone 33. together
14. handshake 34. beautiful
15. football 35. geography
16. beachwear 36. elevator
17. nosebleed 37. emergency
18. hairbrush 38. information
19. jellyfish 39. celebration
20. jawline 40. magnificent
I’m going to say some words. I want you to repeat only part of each word.
Say _____ but don’t say (the sound in bold).
1. bee 9. sun 17. most
2. car 10. top 18. place
3. leg 11. cook 19. tree
4. bus 12. dance 20. sky
5. happy 13. feed 21. first
6. slip 14. dirt 22. teacher
7. show 15. earth 23. drive
8. sweep 16. watch 24. three
Compound words are words made up of two small words.
I’m going to say some compound words. Repeat the words after me, and clap once for each
little word in the compound word.
1. rainbow 9. raincoat 17. cheerleader
2. sidewalk 10. sideways 18. wallpaper
3. snowball 11. birthday 19. rattlesnake
4. eggshell 12. halfway 20. fingernail
5. lifeboat 13. doghouse 21. thumbtack
6. sunburn 14. eyeball 22. footprint
7. snowman 15. ladybug 23. birdbath
8. ballpark 16. strawberry 24. bathroom
I’m going to say some words. Tell me how many syllables are in each word. (Or, say each
word and clap once for each syllable in the word.)
1. eager 2 9. passenger 3 17. harmful 2
2. glance 1 10. beautiful 3 18. auditorium 5
3. borrow 2 11. immediate 4 19. elephant 3
4. everything 3 12. harvest 2 20. imaginary 5
5. ceremony 4 13. enormous 3 21. encyclopedia 6
6. together 3 14. encouragement 4 22. hesitate 3
7. fish 1 15. watermelon 4 23. alphabetical 5
8. quiet 2 16. communicate 4 24. caterpillar 4
I’m going to say some words. Tell me how many sounds are in each word. (Or, say each
sound in each word.)
1. bat 3 9. hive 3 17. bony 4
2. in 2 10. odd 2 18. brag 4
3. game 3 11. thick 3 19. same 3
4. him 3 12. waste 4 20. create 5
5. cable 4 13. horse 3 21. doorbell 6
6. ache 2 14. cliff 4 22. chalk 4
7. judge 3 15. crust 5 23. vase 3
8. enjoy 4 16. flavor 5 24. candle 5
I’m going to say some sentences. Tell me how many words you hear in each sentence. (Or,
clap once for each word as you repeat the sentence.)
1. She’s here. 2
2. I like him. 3
3. Don’t go in there. 4
4. I loved that movie. 4
5. The baby is sleeping. 4
6. It’s going to get cold tonight. 6
7. Kayla won. 2
8. Blue is my favorite color. 5
9. He wants chocolate. 3
10. Look at that monkey! 4
11. Their teacher gave lots of homework. 6
12. Never say never. 3
13. Beth is getting married. 4
14. Can we go shopping this weekend? 6
15. The party is next Wednesday. 5
16. Don’t trip on that cord. 5
17. Emily lives near the school. 5
18. The firefighters sped to the fire. 6
19. We bought a new computer. 5
20. Tomorrow is Saturday. 3
21. The Tigers won yesterday. 4
22. The book I read was great! 6
I’m going to say a word. Then I’ll tell you how to make a new word by changing one sound.
Tell me the new word.
Here’s an example. Beg. Change the /b/ to /l/. The new word is leg.
1. dog Change the /d/ to /l/. log
2. no Change the /n/ to /s/. so
3. lot Change the /l/ to /h/. hot
4. take Change the /t/ to /m/. make
5. city Change the /s/ to /p/. pity
6. better Change the /b/ to /l/. letter
7. many Change the /m/ to /p/. penny
8. lake Change the /k/ to /t/. late
9. sign Change the /n/ to /d/. side

_
10. stay Change the / a / to /oo/. stew
11. trip Change the /p/ to /m/. trim
12. off Change the /f/ to /n/. on
13. miss Change the /s/ to /t/. mitt
14. light Change the /t/ to /m/. lime
15. smart Change the /m/ to /t/. start

∪ ..
16. duck Change the / u / to /a/. dock
∪ ..
17. fix Change the / i / to /o/. fox
18. flash Change the /fl/ to /kl/. clash
19. break Change the /br/ to /t/. take
20. mix Change the /m/ to /tr/. tricks
Absurd Sentences 1
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 43. Students’ explanations for why
statements don’t make sense will vary. Accept all reasonable answers.
Look at this picture and tell me if what I say makes sense. If it doesn’t make sense, tell
me why.
1. This is a picture of a grocery store. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a shoe store. makes sense
3. People come here to buy stamps. doesn’t make sense
4. People come here to buy shoes. makes sense
5. The shoes in a shoe store are free. doesn’t make sense
6. You need money, a credit card, or a check to buy shoes in a shoe store. makes sense
7. You need to know what size pants you wear to buy shoes. doesn’t make sense
8. You need to know what size shoes you wear to buy shoes. makes sense
9. The SALE sign means those shoes are all very small. doesn’t make sense
10. The SALE sign means the prices for those shoes are reduced. makes sense
11. You put your shoes on before you put your socks on. doesn’t make sense
12. You put your socks on first, then your shoes. makes sense
13. All shoes have shoelaces. doesn’t make sense
14. Only some shoes have shoelaces. makes sense
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 1, continued Name __________________________
Look at this picture and listen carefully to your teacher.

43
Absurd Sentences
No-Glamour Auditory Processing Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.
Absurd Sentences 2
me why.
1. This is a picture of a school classroom. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a picture of a pet store. makes sense
3. You buy a ticket to look at these pets. doesn’t make sense
4. You don’t need a ticket to look at these pets. makes sense
5. Everyone has a goldfish for a pet. doesn’t make sense
6. Only some people have a goldfish for a pet. makes sense
7. A good pet with fur and a tail is a turtle. doesn’t make sense
8. A good pet with fur and a tail is a dog, a cat, a gerbil, a mouse, a rabbit, or a hamster.
makes sense
9. A turtle doesn’t have any fur. makes sense
10. You don’t need a cage to have a parakeet for a pet. doesn’t make sense
11. You need a cage to have a parakeet for a pet. makes sense
12. If you want a pet that can talk, you should get a rabbit. doesn’t make sense
13. A rabbit can’t talk. makes sense
14. If you want a pet that can talk, you should get a parakeet or a parrot. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

45
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 3
me why.
1. This is a library. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a classroom. makes sense
3. The children in the classroom are teachers. doesn’t make sense
4. The children are students or pupils. makes sense
5. Children go to school on weekends. doesn’t make sense
6. Children go to school on weekdays/during the week. makes sense
7. The computer in the classroom helps everyone salute the flag. doesn’t make sense
8. The computer helps everyone learn, write stories, play games, etc. makes sense
9. There are only boys in this classroom. doesn’t make sense
10. There are boys and girls in this classroom. makes sense
11. Some of the students are playing with a pet gerbil. doesn’t make sense
12. Some of the students are playing with a pet rabbit. makes sense
13. The teacher is shorter than the students. doesn’t make sense
14. The teacher is taller than the students. makes sense
15. The students are shorter than the teacher. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

47
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 4
me why.
1. This is a real picture. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a make-believe picture. makes sense
3. It shows animals working in a bathroom. doesn’t make sense
4. It shows animals working in a kitchen. makes sense
5. The bear is wearing a football helmet. doesn’t make sense
6. The bear is wearing a chef’s hat. makes sense
7. He is frying something in a small bowl. doesn’t make sense
8. He is stirring something in a large bowl. makes sense
9. The rabbit is freezing a cake. doesn’t make sense
10. The rabbit is frosting a cake, putting icing on a cake. makes sense
11. She used the refrigerator to bake the cake. doesn’t make sense
12. She used the oven to bake the cake. makes sense
13. She’s using a mixer to frost the cake. doesn’t make sense
14. She’s using a knife/spatula to frost the cake. makes sense
15. There are some eggshells on the counter. doesn’t make sense
16. There are some eggshells on the floor. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

49
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 5
me why.
1. These kids are practicing football out on the field. doesn’t make sense
2. These kids are practicing basketball in the gym. makes sense
3. It’s 8 o’clock. doesn’t make sense
4. It’s 2 o’clock. makes sense
5. The locker room doors are open. doesn’t make sense
6. The locker room doors are closed. makes sense
7. The coach is blowing her whistle. doesn’t make sense
8. The coach is tossing/throwing the ball. makes sense
9. All the players are wearing uniforms. doesn’t make sense
10. None of the players is wearing shorts. doesn’t make sense
11. All the players are wearing shorts. makes sense
12. In basketball, you bounce the ball to get points. doesn’t make sense
13. You shoot baskets to get points. makes sense
14. You bounce the ball to dribble. makes sense
15. The team with the most dribbles wins the game. doesn’t make sense
16. The team with the most points wins the game. makes sense
17. You should wear sandals to play basketball in a gym. doesn’t make sense
18. You should wear gym shoes/basketball shoes to play basketball in a gym. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

51
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 6
me why.
1. This is a picture of a zoo. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a picture of a circus. makes sense
3. There aren’t any people in the audience. doesn’t make sense
4. There are lots of people in the audience. makes sense
5. An elephant is swinging on a trapeze. doesn’t make sense
6. A monkey is swinging on a trapeze. makes sense
7. A clown is eating balloons. doesn’t make sense
8. A clown is juggling balls. makes sense
9. An elephant is riding on a woman. doesn’t make sense
10. A woman is riding on an elephant. makes sense
11. A horse is standing on its head. doesn’t make sense
12. A bear is standing on its head. makes sense
13. A lion is jumping under a hoop. doesn’t make sense
14. A lion is jumping through a hoop. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

53
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 7
me why.
1. This is a picture of all the continents. doesn’t make sense
2. This is a picture of all the planets/the solar system. makes sense
3. The Earth is the planet closest to the sun. doesn’t make sense
4. Mercury is the planet closest to the sun. makes sense
5. The Earth is the third planet from the sun. makes sense
6. The moon is at the center of the solar system. doesn’t make sense
7. The planets travel in a circle around the sun. makes sense
8. There are eight planets in our solar system. doesn’t make sense
9. There are nine planets in our solar system. makes sense
10. The Earth’s closest neighbors are Neptune and Mercury. doesn’t make sense
11. The Earth’s closest neighbors are Mars and Venus. makes sense
12. Neptune is bigger than Saturn. doesn’t make sense
13. Saturn is bigger than Neptune. makes sense
14. Someone who travels into outer space is an aquanaut. doesn’t make sense
15. Someone who travels into outer space is an astronaut. makes sense
16. Uranus is the only planet that has rings. doesn’t make sense
17. Uranus is one of the planets that have rings. makes sense
Absurd Sentences

55
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 8
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 57 and go over the cloud descriptions
together before doing this page. Students’ explanations for why statements don’t make
sense will vary. Accept all reasonable answers.
Look at this diagram and tell me if what I say makes sense. If it doesn’t make sense, tell
me why.
1. This diagram shows different colors of clouds. doesn’t make sense
2. This diagram shows different kinds of clouds. makes sense
3. Clouds give us clues about the kind of food we will have. doesn’t make sense
4. Clouds give us clues about the kind of weather we will have. makes sense
5. Cirrus clouds are fluffy, white puffs. doesn’t make sense
6. Cumulus clouds are fluffy, white puffs. makes sense
7. High clouds that signal thunderstorms are called stratus clouds. doesn’t make sense
8. High clouds that signal thunderstorms are called cumulonimbus clouds. makes sense
9. When the water droplets in clouds get heavy enough, they turn into rainbows. doesn’t
make sense
10. When the water droplets in clouds get heavy enough, they turn into rain. makes sense
11. Clouds can move wind. doesn’t make sense
12. Wind can move clouds. makes sense
13. Clouds that look like a circle around the sun or the moon are called cirrocumulus clouds.
doesn’t make sense
14. Clouds that look like a circle around the sun or the moon are called cirrostratus clouds.
makes sense
Absurd Sentences
Look at this diagram and listen carefully to your teacher.
Cirrus clouds are wisps with flicked-back Cumulus clouds are fluffy, white puffs.
tails. They may signal rain. They signal fine weather.
Cirrostratus clouds thinly veil the Sun. Cumulonimbus are billowing storm clouds
They can bring rain or snow. that stretch high up into the sky.
Cirrocumulus clouds look like ripples in Stratus clouds spread out in a low gray
the sky. They signal weather changes. layer. They mean rain or snow.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 9
Look at this time line for different kinds of transportation and tell me if what I say makes
sense. If it doesn’t make sense, tell me why.
1. This time line shows the history of space travel. doesn’t make sense
2. This time line shows the history of transportation. makes sense
3. The first event on this time line is the first human in space. doesn’t make sense
4. The first event on this time line is the steam engine. makes sense
5. The last event on this time line is the first human in space. makes sense
6. The airplane was invented before the car. doesn’t make sense
7. The car was invented before the airplane. makes sense
8. The steam engine was invented after the steam locomotive. doesn’t make sense
9. The steam engine was invented before the steam locomotive. makes sense
10. The steam locomotive was invented after the steam engine. makes sense
11. No one knows when the Transcontinental Railroad was built. doesn’t make sense
12. The Transcontinental Railroad was built in 1869. makes sense
13. The steam locomotive was invented 25 years after the steamboat was invented. doesn’t
make sense
14. The steam locomotive was invented 23 years after the steamboat was invented.
makes sense
15. Most of the transportation forms shown on this time line are for air travel. doesn’t
make sense
16. Most of the transportation forms shown on this time line are for land travel. makes sense
Absurd Sentences
Look at this time line and listen carefully to your teacher.

59
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 10
Tell me what doesn’t make sense in each sentence. Explain why it doesn’t make sense.
1. Tracy feeds her goldfish milk. You don’t feed a goldfish milk. You feed it fish food.
2. We ordered pizza with peanut butter and sausage. You don’t put peanut butter on
a pizza.
3. Sometimes thunder is so bright it hurts your eyes. Thunder isn’t bright, it’s loud.
Lightning could hurt your eyes, but not thunder.
4. We saw a butterfly with beautiful toenails. Butterflies don’t have toenails.
5. My mattress is so lumpy I can’t draw on it. You don’t draw on a mattress. You sleep on it.
6. Most people put on their shoes before their socks. You put on your shoes after you put
on your socks.
7. Mike will see a lot better when he gets his new hearing aid. A hearing aid helps you hear
better, not see better. A hearing aid won’t help him see better, glasses will.
8. Lisa needs more detergent to wash her hair. You use shampoo to wash your hair,
not detergent.
9. Diane thought the horror movie was very brave. A movie can’t be brave.
10. A brick is floating in the pond. Bricks don’t float; they sink.
11. David wants a fluffy snake for a pet. Snakes aren’t fluffy.
12. Roberta didn’t want to do a jigsaw puzzle because she didn’t want to get her clothes
dirty. Your clothes don’t get dirty when you do a jigsaw puzzle.
13. Aunt Cindy is my favorite male relative. An aunt is a female.
14. Alex can’t swim, so he stays in the deep end of the pool. If he can’t swim, he should stay
in the shallow end of the pool.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 11
1. Uncle Bert took our picture with his new radio. You use a camera to take a picture, not
a radio.
2. Barb says she’s so full, she could eat a whole pizza in one minute. If Barb is full, she
isn’t hungry.
3. Andy likes to bounce bowling balls. You don’t bounce bowling balls; you roll them.
4. The room was too hot, so Karla turned up the heat. If the room is too hot, you turn down
the heat or turn up the air conditioning.
5. In the department store, we used the fire escape to get from floor to floor. You use an
elevator, an escalator, or the stairs to get from floor to floor.
6. Ray can’t ride his bicycle because it’s out of gas. You don’t need gas to ride a bicycle.
7. Mieko only eats healthy foods, so she ordered French fries and brownies for lunch.
French fries and brownies aren’t healthy foods.
8. We rushed to the airport to catch the train. You catch an airplane at the airport, not
a train.
9. Button your notebook before you go so your papers won’t fall out. You don’t button a
notebook.
10. We keep our lettuce in the dishwasher to keep it clean. You keep lettuce in a refrigerator;
you use a dishwasher to clean dishes, not to keep food.
11. You should raise your knee if you know the answer to a question your teacher asks. You
should raise your hand, not your knee.
12. Please close the broom so the flies can’t come inside. A broom can’t close; you close a
door to keep out flies.
13. Uncle Gus planted roses and dandelions in his garden this year. Dandelions are weeds.
14. Sunrise will be at 10:30 tomorrow morning. The sun rises much earlier than 10:30 in
the morning.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 12
1. Terry’s baby tooth was loose, so he used glue to keep it in place. You don’t use glue to
keep a tooth in place; you don’t usually try to keep baby teeth once they are loose.
2. Vicki gave her dog a map so it would never get lost. A dog can’t read a map.
3. Let’s play soccer in my brother’s playpen. You play soccer on a field, not in a playpen.
4. Joe doesn’t like to look at pictures of lions because it’s too dangerous. There’s nothing
dangerous about pictures of lions.
5. Kelly is afraid of heights, so she sleeps in the upper bunk of her bunk bed. Someone
afraid of heights would sleep in the bottom bunk of a bunk bed.
6. Marie didn’t send invitations to her party because she didn’t want anyone to know about
it. Guests need to know about a party to come to it; you send invitations so guests will
know about a party.
7. Tony was disgusted when he won first prize in the science fair. He wouldn’t be disgusted
to win; he would be proud.
8. The crossword puzzle in Sunday’s paper was so difficult, it took Mom two minutes to
finish it. A difficult crossword puzzle would take longer than two minutes to finish.
9. BJ forgot his lunch money, so he borrowed a wallet from a friend. He wouldn’t borrow a
wallet; he would borrow money.
10. I was thirsty, so I sank a glass of water. You don’t sink water; you drink it.
11. You say “I’m sorry” when someone gives you a present. You say “thank you” when
someone gives you a present.
12. We could hear a rooster crow at sunset this morning. Sunset is in the evening; sunrise is
in the morning.
13. Jason peeled his spaghetti and sliced it neatly on his plate. You can’t peel spaghetti.
14. After Tracy set the chair, she told her family that breakfast was ready. Tracy set the table,
not the chair.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 13
1. My neighbor didn’t like the color of her roses, so she painted them. You don’t paint
flowers.
2. A rabbit moved so slowly, I could hardly see it. If a rabbit moved slowly, it would be easy
to see, not hard to see.
3. My bedroom is so cozy, it keeps me awake all night. A cozy bedroom would be

comfortable and easy to sleep in. It wouldn’t keep you awake.
4. The Mars Pathfinder Mission sent a robot device to check out the soil and rocks on
Venus. The Mars Pathfinder Mission sent a robot device to Mars, not Venus.
5. Abraham Lincoln is buried in Grant’s Tomb. Grant is buried in Grant’s Tomb.
6. Claudia was so hungry, she couldn’t eat her favorite lunch. If she was hungry, she would
be able to eat her favorite lunch.
7. The math test was so easy, no one could figure out the answers. The answers wouldn’t
be hard to figure out if the test was easy. They would only be hard to figure out if the test
was very difficult.
8. James cut his hamburger with a straw because he couldn’t find a knife. A straw wouldn’t
cut a hamburger.
9. If you’re allergic to dairy products, you should eat lots of cheese instead of milk. Cheese
is a dairy product, so you shouldn’t eat it if you’re allergic to dairy products.
10. The batteries in Erin’s flashlight were dead, so she threw the flashlight away. She should
just get new batteries instead.
11. Jill keeps her ice cream in the microwave so it doesn’t get too hard. Ice cream would
melt in a microwave; she should keep ice cream in a freezer.
12. I’m meeting my friends at noon, so I need to be there by 1:00. You need to be there at
12:00; 1:00 would be too late.
13. Rick couldn’t make a collect call because he didn’t have enough money with him. You
don’t need any money to make a collect call.
14. Nancy covered her ears so the skunk smell wouldn’t bother her so much. She should
hold her nose; covering her ears won’t keep her from smelling the skunk.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 14
1. All of Aunt Dee’s plants melted because no one watered them. The plants wouldn’t melt;
they would wilt without water.
2. Please put these last names in order by number. Names don’t have numbers; you could
sort them alphabetically, but not by number.
3. Byron wore sandals over his socks to keep his feet dry in the rain. Sandals over socks
wouldn’t keep your feet dry in the rain.
4. Uncle Ken fed his baby a poem. You can’t eat a poem; you feed a baby milk or
baby food.
5. Theresa answered the phone to see who was knocking at the door. She should go to the
door or to a window to see who’s there, not the phone.
6. After the math test, Gene tied up his pencil and picked up his book bag. You don’t tie
a pencil.
7. Judy bought two tickets to the movie because it was a double feature. You don’t need
two tickets to see a double feature; you only need one ticket.
8. Pat wanted a free doughnut, but he didn’t have any money to pay for it. Pat doesn’t need
any money; the doughnut is free.
9. Troy couldn’t finish his crossword puzzle because he couldn’t write the “down” words in
cursive. You print to do a crossword puzzle; you don’t write a crossword puzzle in
cursive.
10. July is the hottest week of the year. July is a month, not a week.
11. Hank tightened his seat belt to hold his pants up. A seat belt is for passengers, not for
keeping your pants up.
12. Would you rather have baked balloons or baked beans? Balloons aren’t food, so you
don’t bake them.
13. After he ran the race, Doug leaned on his shadow to rest. You can’t lean on a shadow.
14. Please wipe your napkin before you walk on my clean floor. You wipe your feet, not
a napkin.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 15
1. Paula is on a diet because she is thirteen inches overweight. You can be overweight in
pounds, but not inches.
2. Liz cut an apple in half. She gave one half to Jody, one half to Kim, and one half to me.
There are only two halves in one apple.
3. My friend earns money baby-sitting for STOP signs. You don’t baby-sit for STOP signs;
you baby-sit for children.
4. Everyone rushed to the library to buy tickets to borrow books. You don’t need a ticket to
go into a library to borrow books.
5. On our camping trip, we toasted marbles over the fire. You toast marshmallows,
not marbles.
6. My grandparents can’t afford a vacation because they just won the lottery for six million
dollars. If you had six million dollars, you could afford a vacation.
7. In baseball, you hit a bat with a ball and run to first base. You hit a ball with a bat.
8. Keesha could see the noise from the ambulance siren better after she put on her
sunglasses. You don’t look at noise from an ambulance siren; you hear it.
9. Today is Tuesday, so tomorrow is Thursday. If today is Tuesday, tomorrow is Wednesday.
10. When the popcorn was all popped, Lee sprinkled it with spinach and put it into snack
bowls. You sprinkle salt or seasonings on popcorn, not spinach.
11. One good way to prevent cavities is to flush your teeth at least twice a day. You don’t
flush your teeth, you brush them.
12. We fed the ducks quackers at the duck pond. You could feed ducks crackers, but a
quacker isn’t a food.
13. My aunt says she’ll teach us how to ride turkeys the next time we visit her farm. You
don’t ride turkeys; you ride horses or ponies.
14. Write your fingerprint at the top of the page before you begin your assignment. You don’t
write a fingerprint; you write your name.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Sentences 16
1. It’s windy today, so it’s great weather to fly cats and dogs. You don’t fly cats and dogs;
you fly kites.
2. Brandy went to the grocery store to get her teeth checked. You go to a dentist to get
your teeth checked; you buy groceries at a grocery store.
3. Our electricity went out in the storm last night, so we turned on all the lights and played
card games until midnight. If the electricity went out, you couldn’t turn on the lights.
4. Lester’s mouse will be a great rat when it grows up. A mouse can’t become a rat.
5. Our toaster leaked, so we called a plumber. A toaster doesn’t leak.
6. Steve and Juan argued about whether they should start the game or begin it. Starting a
game is the same thing as beginning it.
7. Baby Jane juggled her pacifiers for a while and then took a nap. A baby can’t juggle.
8. Dawn was out of lipstick, so she used nail polish instead. You can’t substitute nail polish
for lipstick; nail polish is just for painting your nails, not your skin.
9. The principal used a microphone to make his voice softer when he spoke to the students
outside. A microphone makes your voice louder, not softer.
10. Mom squeaked everywhere for her lost necklace. Mom searched everywhere for her lost
necklace; squeaking wouldn’t help her find her necklace.
11. It took four of us to lift the huge mosquito into its cage. A mosquito can’t be big enough
to take four people to lift it.
12. Trisha put kiwis, grapes, and paper clips in her fruit salad for the birthday party. Paper
clips aren’t food; you wouldn’t put paper clips into a fruit salad.
13. The recipe on the pancake mix box said to pour the batter into a glass and boil it in a
pan. You don’t boil pancake batter; you fry it in a frying pan or on a griddle.
14. Farmer Ned chased his chickens before they laid their eggs because he likes his eggs
scrambled. You can’t scramble an egg until after you break it.
Absurd Sentences
Absurd Paragraphs 1
Teacher note: The words that make the paragraphs absurd are bolded.
Listen to each paragraph I read. Tell me if what I say makes sense.
1. Tracy picked some flowers from her garden. She put them in a shoe and set it on the
table. doesn’t make sense
2. Christina wrote a letter to her grandfather. She put the letter in the trash can so it would
get mailed. doesn’t make sense
3. Troy was dirty after he played outside in the mud. He took a bath when he came
inside. makes sense
4. Melinda got a parakeet for a pet. She put it in the cupboard so it wouldn’t fly away.
5. The dog wanted to go outside. He stood by the door and barked. makes sense
6. Ramon got ready to go swimming. He put on his bathing suit and got a towel.
makes sense
7. Greg got his bicycle out of the garage to ride to his friend’s house. He put on his crown
for safety before he left. doesn’t make sense
8. Mark turned on the TV to watch his favorite show. When it was over, Mark turned the
radio off. doesn’t make sense
9. Zoey answered the telephone when it rang. The caller asked to speak to Zoey’s mom, so
Zoey hung up the phone. doesn’t make sense
10. Shannon played outside all afternoon. She went to bed early that night because she was
tired. makes sense
11. Patrick dropped some books on the floor. It took him a long time to clean up the mess.
12. Heather has one sister and no brothers. There are two children in her family.
makes sense
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 2
Tell me what’s wrong with each paragraph I read. Explain why it’s wrong.
1. Andrew was tired. He put on his coat and went to bed. He’d wear pajamas to bed, not a
coat.
2. Cory was late for school. He walked slowly. He’d walk quickly if he was late, not slowly.
3. Shayla wanted something to drink. She opened the stove to get a glass of juice. She’d
open the refrigerator, not the stove, to get something to drink.
4. Jenna got a new cat. The cat barked all the time. Cats meow; dogs bark.
5. Michael wanted to draw a picture. He got out some paper and a pair of scissors. He
wouldn’t use scissors to draw a picture; he’d use crayons, markers, or a pencil.
6. The baby was hungry. Mom gave him a shoe to drink. She’d give the baby a bottle to
drink, not a shoe.
7. It was Kim’s birthday. She blew out the pencils on the cake. A birthday cake has candles
on it, not pencils.
8. We went to the playground. We played on the desk for a long time. Playgrounds don’t
have desks; they have things like swings, monkey bars, and slides.
9. Maria knew it was snowing. She put on her shorts and went outside. She’d wear pants
and a coat outside when it’s snowing, not shorts.
10. It was spring. The trees had lots of spoons growing on them. Trees don’t grow spoons,
they grow leaves.
11. Cara and Nicole went to the library. They checked out some telephones and came home.
They’d check out books at the library, not telephones.
12. Ben didn’t feel well. He went to see the mail carrier for some medicine. He’d see a
doctor when he was sick, not a mail carrier.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 3
1. It was raining. Rachel put up her backpack so she wouldn’t get wet. She’d use an
umbrella if it was raining, not a backpack. A backpack wouldn’t keep her dry.
2. Mrs. Truman teaches at my school. She writes on the chalkboard with paint. She’d use
chalk to write on a chalkboard, not paint.
3. Ryan was hungry when he got home from school. He drank some milk and ate a
notebook. A notebook isn’t food. He’d eat a snack like cookies, fruit, or popcorn.
4. Katie was taking a shower. She washed her hair with orange juice. We drink orange
juice; we use shampoo to wash our hair.
5. I forgot to comb my hair today. I can use a fork to make it look better. A fork is used for
eating; you use a brush, a comb, or a pick to fix your hair.
6. Brittany loves to listen to music. Every day she turns on the microwave oven and
dances. The microwave oven is used for cooking; a CD player or radio plays music.
7. Austin wanted to go fishing. He dug some ladybugs from the dirt for bait. He’d use
worms for bait, not ladybugs.
8. Carlos was excited to fly for the first time. He shook hands with the pilot before he got
on the train. A pilot flies an airplane, not a train.
9. My grandma is coming for a visit. She will sleep in the bathroom when she is here. A
bathroom is for cleaning one’s body or using the toilet, not sleeping.
10. Jon dropped the open box of cereal he was carrying. He got a rake to clean it up. He’d
use a broom to clean up the cereal, not a rake. A rake is used outside to gather leaves.
11. Megan always brushes her teeth before bed. She uses a toothbrush and some ketchup.
She’d use toothpaste to brush her teeth, not ketchup.
12. Valerie cut her leg. She put a piece of tape on it. She’d put a bandage or Band-Aid ® on
her cut, not a piece of tape.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 4
1. Kyle jumped into the pool. When he got out, he was dry. He’d be wet when he got out of
the pool, not dry.
2. When we got home, it was dark outside. We turned on the sun so we could see. We
turned on a light, not the sun. You can’t turn on the sun.
3. Darcy was cold. She wrapped up in a curtain so she could get warm. Curtains hang
over windows; they aren’t usually used as blankets.
4. Brianna and her grandma waited at the bus stop for the school bus. When the bus finally
got there, Brianna and her grandma got on the bus. Her grandma wouldn’t get on the
bus; grandmas don’t go to school.
5. Our class has gym on Thursdays. We like to play piano the best. You play ball or games
in gym class; you play piano in music class.
6. Zachary loved to play with his trains. He put his train on the road he had put together
and watched it go around. Trains run on tracks; roads are for cars and trucks.
7. Early Saturday morning, the sun shone through Tyrone’s floor. It was so bright, Tyrone
used a pillow to cover his eyes. The sun would come through a window, not the floor.
8. Erik was going to be late for school again. He knew he should have gotten up later. Erik
should have gotten up earlier, not later.
9. Simone was having a really bad day. She forgot her lunch, she dropped her library book
in a puddle, and she won the art contest at school. Winning the art contest wouldn’t be
bad, it would make her bad day better.
10. It was Lauren’s turn to make dinner. She made hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, and
frosting. Frosting isn’t a food you eat for a meal; it’s something you put on cookies or
cakes.
11. When Dylan got home, he realized he had lost the lock for the door. He knew he had it
when he left school, so he slowly walked back to school, looking carefully at the ground.
He would have a key for the door, not a lock.
12. Shelly was the classroom helper after school. She wiped off the chalkboard, stacked the
books, and combed her hair. Combing your hair isn’t part of being a classroom helper.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 5
1. Allison was getting ready for school. She washed her face and brushed her teeth. Then
she got dressed. makes sense
2. Tyler was cleaning out his closet. He put all his toys in his toy box. Then he picked up all
the clothes and put them under his bed. doesn’t make sense
3. Jim was cleaning up the mess he made. He put all the crayons in the box. Then he put
the box in the refrigerator. doesn’t make sense
4. Huy’s cat was sick. It wouldn’t eat or drink anything and it meowed a lot. Huy took his
cat to the police station for a checkup. doesn’t make sense
5. Brett went over to his friend’s to play video games. After they played video games, they
played basketball outside. Then Brett went home. makes sense
6. Emma wanted to learn how to play the piano. She started taking lessons once a week.
She practiced every day for a half hour. makes sense
7. The movie was about to begin. Lisa and Beth quickly sat down and started eating their
popcorn. When the movie started, it said “The End” on the screen. doesn’t make sense
8. Stephanie and Erin waited at the bus stop for their bus. When the school bus came, they
got on. They paid the driver and found a place to sit. doesn’t make sense
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 6
1. Leah was excited to see the circus. There was so much to look at! The nurses made her
laugh the most. Clowns make you laugh at a circus; nurses take care of sick people at a
hospital, doctor’s office, or clinic.
2. David helped set the table for dinner. He put out the plates and napkins. Then he got the
forks and toothbrushes. He wouldn’t put toothbrushes on a table. We use toothbrushes
to brush our teeth, not to eat food.
3. Carmen was making cookies. She spilled flour and sugar on the floor and dropped two
eggs. The bedroom was a mess when she was finished. She’d make cookies in a
kitchen, not in a bedroom.
4. When you have a dog or a cat, it’s important to take care of it. You have to feed it every
day. You also need to give it root beer to drink. You give animals water to drink, not root
beer.
5. Brian was cleaning up his room. There were clothes and toys everywhere. He put his
dirty clothes in the hamper and his cars and trucks in the bathtub. He’d put his toys in
the closet or toy box, not in the bathtub.
6. Mieko was learning how to skate with in-line skates. She put on her helmet and knee
pads. She knew she would have to practice hard before she would be able to swim well.
She wouldn’t swim with in-line skates on, she’d skate with them.
7. Ellen broke her arm yesterday. She fell off the monkey bars at the playground. She got a
bag on her arm to help it heal. She’d get a cast on her arm to help it heal, not a bag.
8. The boys went for a hike in the county park. They followed a trail from one side of the
park to the other. When they got tired, they sat on the chairs along the way. They might
sit on the ground to rest, but there aren’t any chairs along a hiking path.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 7
1. Colin made a sandwich for lunch. He put cheese, lettuce, and salami on it. Then he put
apples on it. He wouldn’t put apples on a sandwich; but, he might eat an apple with the
sandwich as part of his lunch.
2. Danny was happy to make the baseball team. He was going to play third base. He
practiced kicking the ball every day. He’d practice catching, hitting, or fielding the ball, not
kicking it.
3. Jody had invited Maureen to spend the night. Maureen was excited. She packed her
clothes and toothbrush in her lunch box and waited for Maureen’s dad to pick her up.
She’d pack her clothes in a suitcase or duffel bag, not a lunch box.
4. Kris was studying for her spelling test. She knew most of the words. When she wasn’t
sure how to spell the word principal, she looked it up in the cookbook. She’d look up a
word in a dictionary; a cookbook has recipes in it.
5. Travis knew he had to get up early. He had his first band practice before school. He
carefully set his video game for 6:30 in the morning. He’d set his alarm clock, not his
video game. A video game is a toy.
6. The play was a huge success. The audience wouldn’t stop clapping. The actors bowed
once more before the carpets were closed. A play is performed on a stage and curtains
would be closed, not carpets. Carpets are on the floor.
7. Victor was having trouble seeing the chalkboard in school. He went to the eye doctor.
The doctor told him he needed braces to see better. He needs glasses to see better, not
braces.
8. My brother is studying Africa in class. He has to write a report on an African country. He

looked at a calendar to see the countries in Africa. He wouldn’t look at a calendar to find
out which countries are in Africa; he would use a map or an encyclopedia.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 8
1. Andrew had a math test today. He was nervous, but he had studied hard. Before the
test, he sharpened his pencil with a can opener. He’d sharpen his pencil with a pencil
sharpener, not a can opener.
2. My sisters and I take turns doing the chores at my house. Last night, I washed the
dishes and my younger sister dried them. My older sister emptied the trash into the
stove. She’d put the trash in the garbage can, not in the stove.
3. It was Caroline’s grandfather’s birthday. Caroline was looking forward to giving her
grandfather the scrapbook she had put together. She carefully wrapped the present in
plastic wrap and put a bow on it. She’d wrap the scrapbook in wrapping paper, not
plastic wrap. You can see through plastic wrap.
4. Hiroshi got a hammer and a nail. He finally had time to hang his new picture. When he
was done, he admired the picture hanging in the fireplace. He’d hang a picture over a
fireplace or on a wall, not in the fireplace.
5. Jack wanted to earn some money. His neighbor said she’d pay him to clean her garage.
Jack whistled as he swept the garage with a toothbrush. He wouldn’t sweep the garage
with a toothbrush, he’d use a broom.
6. It was raining so Maria and Courtney decided to go to the movies. They bought their
tickets and went to the candy counter. They were hungry so they ordered bacon and
eggs. They wouldn’t order bacon and eggs at a movie theater; they would get popcorn,
drinks, or candy.
7. Manuel helps his grandfather on Saturdays. They usually go to the grocery store
together. Manuel carries the wastebasket while his grandfather picks out the food he
needs. Manuel wouldn’t carry a wastebasket; he’d carry a plastic grocery basket or push
a grocery cart.
8. Brenda had never gone bird-watching before. Slowly, she walked through the park and
looked for birds. When she spotted one, she lifted her radio and adjusted the focus until
she could see the bird clearly. She’d use binoculars, not a radio, to see the bird clearly.
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 9
1. Trevor finished writing his story for English class. He had worked hard on it and had even
typed it on the computer. Before he turned the computer off, he printed out a copy of his
story. Then he saved his story onto a cassette tape. doesn’t make sense
2. It was late when Holly came home. Her mom was pretty upset because she didn’t know
where Holly had been. Holly explained she had been at her friend’s house studying, but
she had forgotten to call. Even though her mom believed her, Holly still got grounded for
not calling. makes sense
3. Kelsey was fishing with her dad on the dock at the lake. The mosquitoes were driving
Kelsey crazy. She had on a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of jeans, but it didn’t help much.
She kept getting bit, so she sprayed on perfume to keep the mosquitoes away. doesn’t
make sense
4. Tevin and his family went out for dinner. When they were seated, the food server brought
them newspapers to look at. Then the server came back and took their order. Tevin was
so hungry, he couldn’t wait for his meal! doesn’t make sense
5. Our apartment building has ten floors. We live on the seventh floor. The fastest way to
get to our apartment is to climb the fire escape. Sometimes we take the stairs, but it
takes a long time and makes me tired. doesn’t make sense
6. Pizza is Cody’s favorite food! His favorite is pizza with pepperoni and mushroom. When
Cody stays with his dad on the weekends, they have pizza at least one of the nights.
Cody even knows the phone number of the pizza place by heart! makes sense
Absurd Paragraphs
Absurd Paragraphs 10
1. It was Marisa’s birthday. She was happy to get three new videotapes. After her party,
she took the tapes into the family room. She chose one to watch and put it in the toaster.
She’d put a videotape in the VCR, not the toaster.
2. Jessica was getting her work done. She picked up all the toys on the floor. Next she
vacuumed the rug. Then she filled the watering can with juice to water the plants. She’d
water the plants with water, not juice.
3. Parker was really tired. First he ran in a race. Then he went swimming. When he got
home, he took a nap in the bathtub. He’d take a nap in his bed or on the couch, not in
the bathtub.
4. Katelyn was really excited because she got a package in the mail. She didn’t know who
it was from or what was in it. She couldn’t wait to open it. She ran to the kitchen and got
a spoon to cut open the box. She couldn’t cut open a box with a spoon; she’d need a
pair of scissors or a knife.
5. Trevor had to write a report on Canada. He went to the library and found a lot of books
on Canada. He took notes and drew a map. When he was ready, he typed his report on
the piano. He’d type a report on a computer, not on a piano.
6. You wouldn’t believe the mess my dog made. He chewed up the newspaper and
knocked two plants onto the floor. He tipped over the kitchen trash and dug through it.
Then he pulled all my shoes out of the closet and put on my slippers. A dog wouldn’t put
on slippers; he’d chew on them or hide them.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. No one was surprised when Nick got hurt on the slide. He had been horsing around all
morning. He went down the slide head-first and fell off the end into the dirt. He got a
deep cut on his head that needed a cast. He didn’t need a cast on his head; he needed
stitches. You don’t put a cast on someone’s head.
2. Michelle went to the dentist. She sat in the chair and opened her mouth wide. After she
got her feet cleaned, the dentist looked at them. Before Michelle left the dentist’s office,
she got a new red toothbrush. Michelle got her teeth cleaned, not her feet.
3. It was Antwan’s turn to bring snacks to preschool. He helped his mom make cookies.
They mixed the flour, eggs, sugar, and broccoli together. Antwan was sure these would
be the best cookies they ever made! They wouldn’t put broccoli in cookies; they’d put
vanilla, butter, chocolate chips, nuts, etc.
4. Molly lives in Florida. She was excited to visit her cousins for vacation. She packed her
suitcase and her dad put it into the car. He drove her to the airport and watched her get
on the boat that would take her to Ohio. She’d get on an airplane at an airport, not a
boat. A boat couldn’t take you from Florida to Ohio.
5. Dave is 10 years old and has never learned how to swim. He won’t even stick his feet in
the shallow end! He finally decided to learn how to swim after watching his younger
brother dive into the water and swim across the deep end. Dave asked the neighbor’s
baby to teach him how to swim. He wouldn’t ask a baby to teach him to swim; a baby
doesn’t know how to swim.
6. Shane asked his uncle to help him build a doghouse for his dog, Buster. They got the
wood, a saw, a rake, and some nails. It only took Shane and his uncle one day to build
the doghouse. When they were finished, Buster went in it and went to sleep. They
wouldn’t need a rake to build a doghouse; they’d need a hammer.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Ross had a great time at camp. The campers went swimming and played games. They
even got to ride horses! The best part was roasting watermelon over the campfire. They
wouldn’t roast watermelon over a campfire; they’d roast marshmallows or hot dogs.
2. Brooke always got ready for school the night before. She put her books and homework
into her backpack. She made her lunch and put it in a bucket. She also decided what
she was going to wear so she wouldn’t have to rush around in the morning. She wouldn’t
put her lunch into a bucket; she’d put it in a bag or lunch box.
3. Last night, Josh decided that he didn’t want to walk to school anymore. His mom told
him that he’d have to figure out another way to get to school because she couldn’t drive
him. Josh knew just what he was going to do. The next day, he rode to school on a
stroller. He might use a skateboard, a bicycle, or in-line skates, but not a stroller. A
stroller is for a baby.
4. It was Amanda’s birthday. She was going to have a sleep-over. She sent out magazines
to eight of her friends. Amanda knew they all would have a good time at her party. She
wouldn’t send out magazines; she’d send out invitations.
5. Steven was helping clean the house. He picked up his toys from the family room. He
cleaned the bathroom. Then he washed the towels in the dishwasher. He wouldn’t wash
towels in a dishwasher; he’d wash them in a washing machine. A dishwasher is for
washing dishes.
6. Mary Beth was excited to get a part in the school play. She knew it would be a lot of
work, but it would be fun. Her best friend had also gotten a part in the play. Mary Beth
ran to the stapler and called her stepmom to tell her the good news. She couldn’t make
a phone call on a stapler; she’d use a telephone. A stapler is for fastening papers
together.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. When Victor got up, he was really hungry. He ate pancakes and sausage and toast, but
he was still hungry so he decided to have some cereal. He put the cereal on a plate and
poured some milk on it. After he ate the cereal, he drank a large glass of orange juice
and ate an apple. Then Victor laid on the couch because he had a stomachache!
2. Erica shared a bedroom with her sister. They didn’t like sharing a room, but they had no
choice. One day, instead of fighting about their messy room, they talked about what they
could do. They promised each other that they would pick up their clothes and keep their
books and things neat. They also agreed that they wouldn’t borrow anything without
asking. makes sense
3. Marcus was a whiz at video games. Every Saturday, he went to the arcade to play the
games. He had some favorites, but he usually tried one new game a week. When the
arcade announced they were having a contest to see who could play “Mish-Mash” the
best, Marcus was first in line to sign up. He couldn’t wait to show everyone how good he
was! makes sense
4. Joanne went to visit her friend in the hospital. She had never been to that hospital, but
she found her friend’s room easily. Joanne’s friend was happy to see her. Joanne gave
her friend a puzzle book and a small teddy bear. Her friend was tired so Joanne stayed
a long time. doesn’t make sense
5. When we went to the lake last summer, there was a lot to see and do. We went
swimming and fishing almost every day. We hiked on the nature trail. We even rode our
bikes out to the island in the middle of the lake. It was the best vacation ever! doesn’t
make sense
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Jake was going to try out for the football team. He started running two miles every day.
He lifted weights three times a week. Jake also made sure that he ate the right foods.
He drank soda pop every morning so his bones would be strong and he would get the
vitamins he needed. Soda pop doesn’t make your bones stronger and it doesn’t have
vitamins in it; milk and/or orange juice would be better choices.
2. Dana was learning how to play soccer. She knew she would have to run a lot. She also
knew that she would have to kick the ball instead of touching it with her hands. Dana put
on her shin guards and shoes and stood by the coach. The coach showed the players
the goals at each end of the classroom. Soccer goals aren’t in a classroom; they’re on a
field.
3. The Falcons had an excellent basketball team. They were in the play-offs for the fourth
year in a row. The first game of the play-offs was on Friday night. The Falcons were
ready. The game started and the Falcons’ star player shot the ball into the swimming
pool to score the first two points of the game. He’d shoot the ball into the basket, not a
swimming pool. A pool is for swimming.
4. Becca loved to run. She ran to school and she ran home from school. When her school
announced they were starting a track team, Becca was excited. She couldn’t wait! At the
first practice, Becca put on her slippers to run around the track. Slippers are worn at
home, usually at night when you’re in your pajamas; running/tennis shoes are what she’d
wear to track practice.
5. Volleyball was Kathy’s favorite sport. She was glad that next year she’d be old enough to
play on the volleyball team at her school. Over the summer she went to a volleyball
camp to improve her skills. The girls practiced three times a day. Kathy wanted her
serve to get stronger so she practiced hitting the ball under the net every chance she got.
You hit the ball over the net, not under it.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. It was Nathan’s first time at the zoo. He laughed at the monkeys. He watched the
elephants take a bath. He wanted to pet the dogs and cats. He had a wonderful time
looking at all the animals. Dogs and cats aren’t zoo animals.
2. Planting a vegetable garden is a lot of work! First I had to figure out where to put my
garden. Next I decided which vegetables I would plant and bought the seeds. Then I
dug up the dirt to get my garden ready. When it was winter, I planted the seeds. You
don’t plant a vegetable garden in the winter; the ground would be too hard to dig and the
seeds wouldn’t grow.
3. Ming’s family decided they were going to get a pet, but they weren’t sure what to get.
They went to the pet store and looked at the animals. Ming’s parents wanted to get a
zebra. Ming wanted to get a dog. Ming’s sister wanted to get a bird. Zebras aren’t pets;
you can’t buy zebras in a pet store.
4. Our class went on a field trip to the post office. We saw where the letters get sorted and
we watched postal workers load their mail trucks. The most interesting place was the
dead-letter office. That’s where they put letters that can’t be delivered because of wrong
addresses. There were five letters in the office. There would be a lot more than five
letters in the dead-letter office.
5. It was time to go back to school after vacation. Teresa was happy to be going back
because she had gotten bored at home. Her teacher gave everyone a new reading book
and a new folder for their schoolwork. Teresa put the reading book in her desk. Then
she wrote her name on the inside of the folder and gave it back to her teacher. She
wouldn’t write her name on the inside of the folder; she’d write it on the front of the folder.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Robin didn’t feel well. She had a headache and a fever. She also felt dizzy whenever
she stood up. She felt so bad, she didn’t get out of bed for two days. When she felt
better, she got up and went to the doctor. Robin was happy to feel like her old self again.
She wouldn’t go to the doctor when she felt better; she’d go when she first started feeling
sick.
2. Charlie’s mom was having a baby. Charlie helped his mom and dad get things ready.
Since Charlie would be sharing a room with the baby, he helped his dad put together
bunk beds so he and the baby would both have places to sleep. They also set up the
changing table and put diapers and baby wipes on it. Then Charlie put the baby toys in
a basket on the floor. A baby doesn’t sleep in bunk beds/a bed; a baby sleeps in a crib.
3. Aaron was selling pizzas to raise money for the marching band. He decided that he
would try to be one of the top salespeople in the band. Every evening, he went down a
different street in his neighborhood. He would walk right into people’s homes and ask
them if they wanted to buy some pizza for the band. Aaron was proud when he learned
that he sold the most pizzas for the band. He wouldn’t walk right into people’s homes;
he’d ring the doorbell or knock on the door.
4. Wendy was learning how to use computers at school. Her teacher showed her how to
find information on different websites for a report she was writing. She also learned how
to type her report on a computer. When Wendy finished her report, she printed it out on
the chalkboard. She was glad she had taken the time to learn how to use a computer.
She’d print out her report on a printer, not a chalkboard.
5. It was the first day of school. Riley put his lunch and backpack into his locker and went
into his classroom. He was happy to see his friends. Riley sat down at his desk and
started his homework. Then his teacher came into the room and said, “Good morning.”
Since it was the first day of school, he wouldn’t have homework yet.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Hallie had to clean her room every weekend. She also had to help clean one other room
in the apartment. If she didn’t do her jobs, she wouldn’t get her allowance. Hallie didn’t
like to clean, but she liked getting her allowance! She decided to sleep late every
Saturday so she could get her work done early. Then, when she was done with her work,
she’d have the rest of the weekend free. doesn’t make sense
2. My teacher announced that our class was going to put on a play for the whole school.
She explained that some people would be in the cast and other people would help
backstage. We had tryouts for the play after school last Thursday. When I found out that
I didn’t get a part in the play, I was upset. Then I found out that I was going to be the
stage manager. It would be great telling everyone what to do! makes sense
3. When Andre’s stepdad told him that they were going into the city, Andre was very happy.
He liked going to the city to see all the tall buildings and interesting people. The first
place they visited was his stepdad’s office. Andre sat in his stepdad’s chair and looked
out the window. He saw cows grazing in the fields and lots of cars. When they left the
office, they rode the bus to Andre’s favorite sports store. doesn’t make sense
4. In our city, we have curbside recycling. That means that we sort our recyclable items and
put them by the curb to be picked up. We put newspapers and cardboard into paper
bags. We put plastic, glass, and aluminum into a special bin. Postal workers come by
once a week to pick up the recyclables and take them to the recycling center. It makes
me feel good to recycle. doesn’t make sense
5. A.J. watched a lot of TV. He turned on the TV the minute he got home and left it on, even
if he wasn’t watching it. He looked at the TV listings every week and circled all the shows
he wanted to watch. When he wasn’t going to be home, he programmed the VCR to tape
the shows he would miss. One day he looked at the stack of videotapes that had shows
he wanted to watch, and he realized that he would never have time to watch them all.
A.J. decided that he needed to cut back on the time he spent in front of the TV.
makes sense
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Alex was earning money so he could buy a new skateboard. He took care of his
neighbor’s iguana when she was on vacation. He cleaned his uncle’s garage. He baby-
sat his cousin every Sunday afternoon. Alex also earned money mowing lawns. Alex
was happy when he finally had enough money to buy his new ice skates. He wasn’t
saving money to buy ice skates; he was saving money to buy a skateboard.
2. The house next door had been for sale for a long time. Darcy was excited when she
found out someone was finally moving in. She hoped there was someone her age to play
with. She watched the movers carry furniture into the house. Soon a train pulled into the
driveway and some people got out. Darcy wondered if they were her new neighbors. A
car, mini-van, or truck would pull into the driveway, not a train.
3. Sam loved his dog, Spike. He gave Spike a bath every week. He walked Spike twice a
day, rain or shine. Every night for dinner, Sam set a place at the table for Spike to eat.
When Sam went to bed, Spike slept on the foot of his bed. In the morning, Spike would
wake Sam up by licking his face. Sam wouldn’t set a place at the table for Spike; he’d
put Spike’s food in a dog dish and set it on the floor.
4. During the thunderstorm last night, Laurie was watching TV. Suddenly the TV and the
lights went off. Laurie knew the storm had caused the power to go off. She sat with her
dad in the dark, watching the sunshine through the window. Pretty soon, Laurie got
bored, so she decided to go to bed. She hoped the storm wouldn’t keep her awake.
They couldn’t watch the sunshine at night, but they could watch the storm/lightning/wind.
5. Tara had just gotten home after basketball practice and she was tired. All she could
think about was taking a hot shower. When she opened the door, it was dark. Tara
couldn’t understand why the lights weren’t on. Suddenly the lights came on and her
friends all yelled, “Go Away!” Tara’s friends were there to celebrate her making the
basketball team. Her friends wouldn’t yell, “Go Away;” they’d yell, “Surprise,”
“Congratulations,” or something similar.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Lucas was invited to Mario’s birthday party. He went to the toy store with his dad to buy
Mario a present. Lucas wasn’t sure what he wanted to get, so he took his time looking
around the store. Lucas’s dad got tired of waiting so he started mopping the floor. Lucas
finally decided to get Mario a super bouncing ball. He knew Mario would have fun with
the ball. Lucas’ dad might start playing with a toy or help Lucas pick out a toy if he got
tired of waiting, but he wouldn’t mop the floor.
2. Emily had her first baby-sitting job. She was going to watch her neighbor’s son, Scott,
while her neighbor mowed her lawn. First Emily and Scott played hide-and-seek. Scott
stood by Emily while she covered her eyes and counted to 20. When Emily was done
counting, she looked for Scott. After they played hide-and-seek, they had a snack. Scott
wouldn’t stand by Emily while she counted, he’d hide.
3. Ashley was looking forward to the Boyz-n-Girlz concert. She had earned the money to
buy her ticket and she was going with two good friends. When they got to the music hall,
they bought T-shirts and programs and then found their seats. The concert started right
on time. The music was so loud that they could easily talk to each other. After the
concert, the girls agreed that it was the best show they had ever seen. If the music was
loud, they wouldn’t be able to talk to each other easily.
4. Brad had worked all summer to save money for a new bike. He had an early morning
paper route, and he mowed lawns in the neighborhood. He even walked his neighbor’s
dog twice a day. He put all the money he had earned in a savings account he opened at
the gas station. Finally, In August, Brad had enough money to buy the bike he wanted!
All his hard work had paid off. He’d put his money in an account at the bank, not at the
gas station.
5. Larry had a boring weekend planned. He was going to a football game on Friday night.
On Saturday, he had karate class in the morning and he was going to the movies with his
brother in the afternoon. Saturday night, he was staying at his best friend’s house. On
Sunday, he was going with his friend’s family to a carnival. Finally, on Sunday night, he
was going to see his neighbor in a play. He didn’t have a boring weekend planned; he
had a busy, interesting, fun weekend planned.
Absurd Paragraphs
1. Kaylee went camping with her scout troop. They stayed in a big cabin with lots of bunk
beds. Kaylee chose a bed, unrolled her towel and put her pillow on it. Then the scout
troop went on a hike. When they got back, they cooked dinner over a campfire. The food
tasted great after their long hike. She wouldn’t have brought a towel for sleeping; she
would have brought a sleeping bag or a blanket. A towel is for drying yourself.
2. Jay searched everywhere for his new comic book. He knew he had last seen it in the
living room. He looked all over the living room, even under the couch. When he couldn’t
find it, Jay got pretty angry. Just then, his brother came into the living room wearing Jay’s
comic book. Jay glared at his brother, grabbed the comic book out of his brother’s hand,
and ran to his room. Jay’s brother wouldn’t be wearing the comic book, but he might be
reading it, hiding it, or holding it.
3. Kevin always had to do his paper route before school. He turned on his alarm clock
when he went to bed. In the morning, he got up as soon as his alarm went off. It usually
took Kevin seven hours to do his paper route, so he needed to be on time. After Kevin
delivered his papers, he came home and took a shower. Then he went to school. It
wouldn’t take him seven hours to deliver papers before school.
4. Jennifer liked to take pictures. She had several photo albums filled with pictures of her
friends and family. She even had a photo album just for pictures of her dog and cat.
Jennifer was happy to get a new camera for her birthday. She put the batteries and key
in it and she was ready to go. She couldn’t wait to see how the pictures turned out! She
wouldn’t put a key in the camera; she’d put film in it.
5. In science class, Carly was studying the solar system. She memorized the order of the
planets and learned about constellations. Every night, she went outside and looked for
the Big Dipper. Her neighbor had a pair of glasses that she looked through so she could
see the moon more closely. It was really interesting! Carly wanted to learn as much
about the solar system as she could. She wouldn’t look through a pair of glasses to see
the moon more closely; she’d look through a telescope.
Absurd Paragraphs
Problem Solving 1-4
Problem Solving 1
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 88.
These children are ready to eat their pizza. But wait! They have a problem. The pizza
isn’t cut. Put an X on the picture at the bottom of the page that will help the children
solve their problem. Put an X on the pizza cutter.
Problem Solving 2
This woman was on her way to work when her car broke down. She needs help. Circle
the picture at the bottom of the page that will help this woman solve her problem. Circle
the picture of the tow truck.
Problem Solving 3
This man took his dog for a walk. The dog saw a squirrel and chased after it. Now the
man is calling his dog back, but the dog isn’t obeying him. Circle the picture at the
bottom of the page that would have prevented this from happening. Circle the picture of
the man walking the dog on a leash.
Problem Solving 4
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 91 and a green, a red, a yellow, and a blue
crayon.
Listen to each of these short stories. Then follow my instructions.
1. Mr. Golden has a problem. His house is on fire. Draw a green circle around the person
who can help Mr. Golden solve his problem. Draw a green circle around the firefighter.
2. Andrew has a problem. He slipped on the ice and broke his arm. Put a red X on the
person who can help Andrew solve his problem. Put a red X on the doctor.
3. Alissa has a problem. Someone stole her bike. Draw a yellow square around the person
who can help Alissa solve her problem. Draw a yellow square around the police officer.
4. Jake has a problem. He jumped into the deep end of the swimming pool, but he doesn’t
know how to swim. Put a blue X on the person who can help Jake solve his problem.
Put a blue X on the lifeguard.
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 1, continued Name __________________________
Look at the picture at the top of the page. Listen carefully and follow the directions.
Problem Solving
Problem Solving
Problem Solving
Look at the pictures as your teacher reads you some short stories. Listen carefully and follow
the directions.
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 5-7
Problem Solving 5
I’m going to read you four short stories. The person in each story has a problem. He/she is
missing something they need. Listen to each story. Then follow my directions.
1. Kelly wants to make a sandwich. She has ham and cheese. What else does Kelly need?
Circle the thing that will solve Kelly’s problem. Circle the bread.
2. Matt wants to paint a picture. He has a piece of paper and a paintbrush. What else does
Matt need? Circle the thing that will solve Matt’s problem. Circle the paints.
3. Grandma is sewing a button on my shirt. She has the button and some thread. What else
does Grandma need? Circle the thing that will solve Grandma’s problem. Circle the needle.
4. Grandpa is wrapping a present. He has wrapping paper and scissors. What else does
Grandpa need? Circle the thing that will solve Grandpa’s problem. Circle the tape.
Problem Solving 6
Listen to each of these short stories. Then circle the item that solves each problem.
1. Adam is making a cake. He has mixed the cake mix and poured it into a pan. Now he needs
to bake the cake, but he doesn’t know which appliance to use. Circle the appliance that will
solve Adam’s problem. Circle the oven.
2. Uncle Ken has to get up at 7 in the morning. He needs something to help him wake up. What
does Uncle Ken need? Circle the thing that will solve his problem. Circle the alarm clock.
3. My baby sister is crying. She’s hungry. What does my sister need? Circle the thing that will
solve my sister’s problem. Circle the bottle of milk.
4. Mrs. Chu is building a doghouse. She’s missing the tool she needs to pound in the nails.
Circle the tool that will solve Mrs. Chu’s problem. Circle the hammer.
Problem Solving 7
The person in each of these short stories has a problem. Listen to each story. Then circle the
item or items that would have prevented each problem.
1. Karen forgot to buy some things she needed at the store. Circle the thing that would have
prevented Karen’s problem. Circle the shopping list.
2. Lisa failed her math test. Circle the thing that would have prevented Lisa’s problem. Circle
Lisa studying.
3. Ryan stayed out in the sun too long. Now he has a terrible sunburn. Circle the things that
would have prevented Ryan’s problem. Circle the sunblock and the beach umbrella.
4. Oh, no! Paul has three new cavities. Circle the things that would have prevented Paul’s
problem. Circle the toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.
Problem Solving
Listen to some short stories. Then circle the item that solves each problem.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Problem Solving
Listen to some short stories. Then circle the item that solves each problem.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Problem Solving
Listen to some short stories. Then circle the item or items that solve each problem.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 8-9
Problem Solving 8
Listen as I tell you what’s happening in each picture. Then tell me how you would solve the
problem.
Picture 1: This girl is in-line skating. If she falls, she’ll hurt herself. Tell me what she could
do to help keep herself from getting hurt. wear protective pads and a helmet
Picture 2: A car started following these children as they walked home from school. The
children do not know the driver. Tell me what they could do to protect
themselves. run away, go back to school, go in a business and ask for help
Picture 3: Something is wrong with the way these jackets fit these kids. Tell me what these
kids could do. trade jackets
Picture 4: Hammie just escaped from his cage. How could this problem have been
avoided? make sure the cage was locked
Problem Solving 9
problem.
Picture 1: Uh, oh. It looks like Spike chewed Tim’s book. What could Tim have done to
prevent this problem? make sure his book was put away
Picture 2: There’s litter all over this playground. How would you solve this problem? get
trash bags and pick up the trash; ask your friends to help you pick everything up
Picture 3: Felicia just stepped on her brother’s crayons and broke them. How could this
problem have been avoided? her brother should have put his crayons away
Picture 4: These lions are too crowded. What could the zookeeper do to solve this
problem? put the lions in a larger cage; put each lion in its own cage
Problem Solving
Listen as your teacher tells you about each picture. Then tell how the problem could be
solved.
1 2
3 4
Problem Solving
solved.
1 2
3 4
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 10
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 100. Possible answers are listed. Accept all
reasonable responses.
problem.
Picture 1: These people know it’s not safe to skate on this pond. The ice is too thin. What
could they do to warn people that the ice isn’t safe? put up a sign that says
“danger” or “thin ice,” put up a barricade
Picture 2: They’re serving macaroni and cheese for lunch tomorrow in the school cafeteria.
Yori won’t be able to eat it because he’s allergic to cheese. What could Yori do
to solve this problem? bring a cold lunch, ask for plain noodles, eat everything
else on his plate except for the macaroni and cheese
Picture 3: Jason is sitting in the back and can’t see the pictures in the book. What could
he do to solve this problem? sit up on his knees, move to the front, stand up
Picture 4: Jessie can’t see where she’s going. How could she fix this problem? get
someone to help her carry the books; carry fewer books and make more trips
Problem Solving
solved.
1 2
3 4
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 11
Teacher note: Possible answers are listed. Accept all reasonable responses.
You remember your favorite children’s stories, don’t you? Well, listen to these endings and
tell how you would have avoided the problems.
1. Every time Pinocchio told a lie, his nose grew. If you were Pinocchio, what would you
have done to keep your nose from growing? never tell a lie
2. Goldilocks got in trouble from Papa Bear because of all the things she did in their house
while the Three Bears were gone. If you had been Goldilocks, what would you have done
to avoid getting in trouble? stayed out of the house, not eaten the porridge, not sat on
the little chair, not slept in the little bed
3. The Three Pigs had a housing problem. The first two pigs built houses that blew down.
If you had been one of these pigs, what would you have done to build a sturdy house?
used bricks, hired a builder to build it
4. In the story of “The Tortoise and the Hare,” the tortoise won the race because he
outsmarted the hare. How could the hare have won the race? kept running instead of
taking a nap
5. Miss Muffet ran from her tuffet because she was frightened by a spider. What could Miss
Muffet have done about the spider? moved her tuffet, killed the spider
6. In “The Wizard of Oz,” Ms. Gulch wants to take Toto away from Dorothy. Dorothy tries to
solve this problem by running away with Toto. How would you have solved the problem?
talk to Ms. Gulch, keep Toto in a fenced-in area so he couldn’t bother Ms. Gulch
7. Snow White took an apple from a stranger. When she took a bite of the apple, she fell
into a deep sleep. If you were Snow White and a stranger offered you something to eat,
what would you do? never talk to a stranger, never take anything from a stranger
8. In “Alice in Wonderland,” the White Rabbit was late for a very important date. What could
he have done to solve his problem? gotten up earlier, checked the time, given himself
more time to get ready
9. Winnie the Pooh’s friend, Eeyore the donkey, has a problem. His tail keeps falling off!
He tries to hold it on with a nail, but that doesn’t work very well. What could Eeyore do
to solve this problem? have someone sew his tail on, take the tail off and leave it off
10. The circus clowns wanted Dumbo the elephant to fly. Dumbo didn’t think he could fly.
Then his friend, Timothy the mouse, gave him a magic feather. He told Dumbo if he held
the feather in his trunk, he would be able to fly. Timothy’s trick worked! It gave Dumbo
the confidence he needed. Imagine you have a friend who needs some confidence.
What would you do to help your friend? encourage him/her, do something with him/her
that he/she’s afraid to do
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 12
Teacher note: Solutions which best solve the problems are italicized.
I’m going to tell you some problems. After each problem I will give you two ways to solve it.
Listen to the choices and tell me which solution would best solve each problem.
1. Mrs. Waller sees water dripping from the ceiling in her apartment. What should she do?
• call a plumber
• count how many drops fall from the ceiling
2. Jeremy missed his ride home from school. What should he do?
• call someone he knows to come and get him
• take a ride from a stranger
3. Mr. Stimes overslept. Now he’s late for work. What should he do?
• go back to sleep
• get up and call work to let someone know why he’s late
4. Tim got separated from his grandfather at the mall. What should Tim do?
• find a security guard and ask her to help him find his grandpa
• leave the mall without his grandpa
5. Hannah’s friend asked her to go home with her after school. Hannah really wants to go,
but her dad is supposed to pick her up. What should Hannah do?
• go with her friend
• wait for her dad
6. When Kara accidentally knocked a vase off her aunt’s table, it broke. What should
Kara do?
• clean up the mess and hope her aunt doesn’t notice the missing vase
• be honest and tell her aunt what happened
7. Nic said some mean things to his sister. Now she’s crying. What should Nic do?
• apologize to his sister
• ignore her
8. Kay sees a news bulletin on TV. It says a tornado is in the area. What should Kay do?
• ignore the bulletin and keep watching her program
• take cover in a safe place immediately
9. Taylor’s mom fell down the stairs. Now she’s unconscious. What should Taylor do?
• wait for her mom to wake up and ask her how she feels
• call 911 right away
10. Rob is going on a trip. He can’t take his dog with him. What should Rob do?
• leave the dog home alone
• put the dog in a kennel
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 13
Teacher note: The best answer to each question is italicized.
I’m going to tell you some problems. I’ll ask you a question about each problem and give you
three possible answers. I want you to tell me the best answer to each of my questions.
1. Mario’s feet are cold. He’s looking for something warm to put on his feet. Which of these
things wouldn’t Mario choose? socks, slippers, sandals
2. Jenna needs to clean her room. Tell me which thing she wouldn’t use. vacuum, toaster,
dust cloth
3. Mrs. Walden doesn’t like cold weather. Which of these seasons doesn’t she like? winter,
spring, summer
4. The friends you’ve invited to dinner are vegetarians. Tell me which thing you wouldn’t
serve these guests. fruit, meat, vegetables
5. Dale is allergic to animal fur. Tell me which animal Dale could not have for a pet. cat,
fish, turtle
6. Beth has a tooth that hurts every time she eats something cold. What shouldn’t Beth do?
go to her dentist, chew on the other side of her mouth, eat ice cream
7. Daniel is allergic to milk products. Tell me which thing Daniel shouldn’t eat. bread,
cottage cheese, potatoes
8. Mr. Thornton is afraid of heights. Which vehicle shouldn’t he travel in? airplane, boat,
submarine
9. Jan is going to an amusement park. She gets sick when she goes on rides that spin.
Tell me which ride Jan shouldn’t go on. roller coaster, tilt-a-whirl, sky ride
10. Matthew’s hungry, but he’s not allowed to use the stove. Tell me which thing Matthew
couldn’t make for his lunch. peanut butter and jelly sandwich, macaroni and cheese, a
salad
11. Candace doesn’t understand how to do her worksheet. What shouldn’t she do? ask her
teacher, ask a friend for help, copy her friend’s answers
12. Gail needs a book on the top shelf. She can’t reach it. Tell me which thing Gail shouldn’t
stand on to reach the book. a chair, a step stool, a stack of books
13. Tony needs to find a book about frogs. Tell me which place Tony wouldn’t go to look for
this book. flower shop, library, bookstore
14. It’s very hot and Chris is having a hard time sleeping. Which thing wouldn’t Chris use to
cool off? furnace, fan, air conditioner
15. Todd needs to study, but he’s having a hard time concentrating. Which thing wouldn’t
help Todd concentrate? a quiet room, loud music, no interruptions
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 14
Listen while I tell you about some problems. Then answer my questions.
1. Peter is watching the weather report. The weatherman says a big snowstorm is on its
way. What could Peter’s family do to prepare for this storm? get extra groceries and
supplies, make an action plan for the next day
2. Peter is very happy. He thinks school might be cancelled tomorrow so he decides not to
do his homework. What problem might this cause? If there was school, his homework
wouldn’t be done.
3. The principal of Peter’s school must decide whether or not she will cancel school. She
knows that it snowed 14 inches and the roads are snow-covered and very icy. What
decision do you think she should make? cancel school Why? too dangerous for people
to drive
4. When Peter wakes up, he sees that it snowed heavily during the night. But the electricity
is off in his house, so he can’t watch TV to find out if school has been cancelled. What
other way could Peter find out if school has been cancelled? listen to the radio (battery-
operated), call a friend
5. Because the electricity is off, Peter’s house is very cold. What could Peter’s family do to
keep warm? dress warmly, start a fire in the fireplace, wrap themselves in blankets
6. The tree branches are piled with heavy snow. Peter’s stepdad is worried that some of the
branches might break. What could Peter and his stepdad do about this? brush the snow
off the branches
7. Peter’s stepdad asks him to clear the snow from the sidewalk in front of their house, but
the snowblower won’t work. What could Peter do? use a shovel, borrow someone else’s
snowblower
8. Peter notices that the porch steps are very icy. He thinks someone might slip and fall.
What could Peter do to prevent this from happening? sprinkle sand or salt on the steps,
warn people that the steps are slippery
9. Peter’s fingers and toes are getting very cold, but he’s not done shoveling. What should
Peter do? go inside and get warm, then finish shoveling
10. While Peter’s stepdad is shoveling the driveway, he pulls a muscle in his back. What
should Peter’s stepdad do? stop shoveling, put ice on his back, lie down
11. Peter’s mom had to make an important phone call at work today. Now she can’t get to
work because she’s snowed in. What could she do to solve this problem? make the call
from home
12. The shoveling is done. The electricity is back on. The roads are still bad, though, so
Peter and his family must stay home. What could the family do together to pass the
time? watch TV or a movie, play board or computer games, play cards, bake cookies
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 15
Every problem has a solution. Listen to each of these problems. Then tell me a solution.
1. Andy bought some jeans on sale. When he got home he realized the salesclerk charged
him the full price for the jeans instead of the sale price. How could Andy solve his
problem? show the salesclerk the receipt and ask to be reimbursed for the difference
2. Sondra needs to bring a milk jug to school. The only milk jug she has at home is still
half-full. How can Sondra solve her problem? pour the milk into another container, get a
container from a neighbor
3. Bart’s dog had a litter of puppies, but his mom won’t let him keep them. How can Bart
solve his problem? put an ad in the paper, ask his friends if they’d like a puppy
4. Kathy and Laura don’t agree on whose turn it is to wash the dishes. How can they solve
their problem? flip a coin, ask a parent, agree that one will wash the dishes tonight and
the other must do them tomorrow
5. Val just remembered that her friend’s birthday is tomorrow, but she forgot to buy her a
card. How can Val solve her problem? make a card
6. Paul needs to tell his friend something, but he has laryngitis. How can Paul solve his
problem? write his message down
7. Tina has a morning paper route, but she’s sick today and can’t deliver the papers. How
can Tina solve her problem? ask a friend to help, ask her parents to help
8. Jeremy is doing his homework, but he can’t remember which page he was supposed to
do in math. How can Jeremy solve his problem? call a friend to find out the page
number
9. Mario wants to go to a concert at the civic center, but the tickets are very expensive. His
dad says Mario will have to earn the money if he wants to go. How can Mario solve his
problem? baby-sit, mow lawns, help around the house
10. Selina doesn’t know why, but her best friend isn’t talking to her. How can Selina solve
her problem? ask her friend what’s wrong, do nothing, hope her friend will start talking
to her
11. Melvin and Otto want to go to a movie but they don’t know when it starts. How can they
solve their problem? call the theater for show times, look in the newspaper
12. Dina is supposed to feed her dog every morning, but she keeps forgetting to do it. How
can Dina solve her problem? write a note to herself and put it where she’ll see it in the
morning, set the food out the night before so she won’t forget it
13. Zach took one of his sister’s CDs to a party. After the party, he looked for the CD but it
was gone. How can Zach solve his problem? buy his sister another CD, ask people at
the party if they took the CD by mistake
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 16
I’m going to tell you some problems. Then I’ll ask you to tell me what you’d do in each
situation.
1. Mr. Ragan didn’t put his seat belt on when he got in his car. A few minutes later he was
in a car accident. He was injured when he hit his head on the windshield. What would
you have done to avoid this problem? wear a seat belt
2. Penny had a headache. She laid down and rested until her headache went away. What
would you have done? taken some medicine, laid down, taken a nap
3. Guy’s baseball crashed through the school window. Guy ran off without telling anyone he
broke the window. What would you have done? told someone I broke the window, run
away, blame someone else
4. Sonia’s library book was overdue. When she went to the library she put the book in the
book return but didn’t pay her fine. What would you have done? paid the fine, returned
the books and paid the fine later
5. Francy put her house key in her coat pocket. When she got home, she discovered her
key was gone. What would you have done to avoid this problem? worn the key on a
chain around my neck, put the key in my book bag
6. Wrigley School doesn’t allow kids to wear caps inside the school. Jose didn’t like this
rule, so he decided to wear a cap anyway. He got sent to the principal’s office. If there
were a school rule you didn’t like, what would you do about it? protest it, break it
7. Dion really should study because he needs to get a good grade on his math test
tomorrow. He decides to go to a party instead. What would you have done? stayed
home and studied, gone to the party
8. Mr. Burton couldn’t sleep, so he decided to go for a walk. As he was walking, a car
started to follow him. What would you do if you couldn’t sleep? read, watch TV
What would you do if a car was following you? go to the nearest home or store and
tell someone, run away
9. Rick doesn’t have enough money to support his wife and baby. That’s because he
doesn’t have a job and hasn’t been employed for a month. If you were Rick, what would
you do? take any job so I could earn some money
10. Dana is three years old. He wants to cut out a picture. He looks in his mom’s desk and
finds a pair of very sharp scissors. He runs to his room with the scissors in his hands.
What is dangerous about this situation? Dana could fall and cut himself. How would you
change it so Dana could cut out his picture and still be safe? have him use safety
scissors, stay by him while he cuts
Problem Solving
Problem Solving 17
Sometimes families have problems that they need help solving. Let’s talk about some families
and offer some suggestions for help.
1. Trevor and his friends rode their bikes to the water park for the afternoon. Trevor’s mom
asked him to be home by 4:00 because his grandparents were coming to visit. The ride
home would take about 15 minutes. Around 3:45, Trevor told his friends he needed to
leave. They didn’t want to. Trevor waited another 5 minutes thinking to himself, “Mom
won’t mind if I’m just 5 minutes late.” Now it was 3:55 and Trevor was still at the water
park. Finally, at 4:00 Trevor decided to go home without his friends. He hoped his mom
wouldn’t be too angry.
• What was Trevor’s problem? He didn’t leave in time and now he’s late.
• How could he have avoided being late? left without his friends
• Why do you think it was important to be home on time? so his mom wouldn’t worry,
so he’d have time to visit with his grandparents
• What could he say to his mom as soon as he gets home? apologize, explain what
happened
2. The Sullivan family has a mom, dad, and two young children. Mr. Sullivan’s parents are
old and want to come live with them. The Sullivans live in a one bedroom apartment
where all four of them sleep in two beds. The grandparents live in a small, two-bedroom
house just two blocks away. Both families want to live together.
• How could the Sullivans make a living arrangement work? move into the
grandparents’ house
• Would moving into the grandparents’ house be a problem? No Why? They live
close and they’d have more space than they would in the apartment.
• Why do older people want to live with their children? to feel secure, to have
someone there to help them
3. Maria Bowers is the mother of two teenagers. Anna is 14 and Anthony is 16. Both teens
want to drop out of school and hang out with gangs. Anna’s gang is involved in petty
theft so the members can pawn what they steal and buy drugs. Anthony’s gang seeks
out opposing gang members to threaten or hurt them. Ms. Bowers is anxious that her
teens will get in serious trouble or be seriously hurt.
• What do you think Ms. Bowers would like to have happen? kids leave their gangs
and stay in school
• How could Ms. Bowers make it happen? be stricter with her kids, have kids talk to a
counselor, move to a different neighborhood
• Why do you think Anna and Anthony are in gangs? peer pressure, they think it’s cool
• How could Anna and Anthony get out of their gangs if they decided that’s what they
wanted to do? ask for help from an adult, find new friends who aren’t in gangs
• If the teens get caught stealing, harming others, or buying drugs, what do you think
will happen to them? get arrested, get put in a juvenile detention center
Problem Solving
Riddles 1
Listen carefully to these clues about things in a kitchen. Then guess what I’m talking about.
1. This is something you eat soup with. 2. This holds water and dirty dishes.
It has a handle and a round part to It has a faucet and a drain.
hold food. What is it? sink
What is it? spoon
3. This is a big appliance. 4. This is a piece of furniture.

It keeps food cold. It has legs, a back, and a seat.
What is it? refrigerator You usually find it by the table.
What is it? chair
5. This is a small appliance. 6. This appliance cooks food very quickly.

It makes bread hot and crunchy. It beeps when the food is done.
You can usually cook two slices of bread What is it? microwave
at the same time.
What is it? toaster
7. This has a sharp edge and a handle. 8. You use this to get the dishes clean.
You use it to cut food. It comes in a bottle.
What is it? knife It makes a lot of bubbles.
What is it? dish soap
9. This is a large appliance. 10. This has a door and a handle.

It gets very hot. You use it to store dishes in.
You use it to cook or bake food. There are shelves inside.
What is it? oven What is it? cupboard, cabinet
Riddles
Riddles 2-4
Riddles 2
Listen to the clues I give you to find the picture I’m talking about. As you hear each clue,
cross out the pictures that don’t belong.
Clues:
1. You can wear these on your feet.
2. Your toes are covered when you wear these.
3. You can wear these outside.
4. These have higher heels than most shoes.
5. You might wear these if you worked on a ranch.
Which picture am I thinking of? Circle it. cowboy boots
Riddles 3
Clues:
1. I’m thinking of a kind of home.
2. You could find this kind of home in the city.
3. This home is for people.
4. This home has more than one family living in it.
5. This home has many floors.
Which picture am I thinking of? Circle it. apartment
Riddles 4
Clues:
1. I’m thinking of something that is round.
2. It isn’t part of a car.
3. You can’t kick it.
4. It’s something hot.
5. It rhymes with fun.
Which picture am I thinking of? Circle it. sun
Riddles
Riddles 2, continued Name __________________________
Listen carefully and follow the directions.
Riddles
Riddles
Riddles
Riddles 5
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 114 and ask students to name each picture
before you read the riddles.
Listen carefully as I give you clues about one of these animals. Then guess which one I’m
talking about.
1. I live on a farm. 2. I am a good swimmer.

I have four legs. I have webbed feet.
I have two ears and a snout. My neck is very long.
What am I? pig What am I? swan
3. I am a big animal. 4. I can be many different colors.

I have brown or black fur. I have fins.
My claws are long and sharp. I live in the water.
What am I? bear What am I? fish
5. I am covered with fur. 6. I am covered with fur.

I am small, but I have a long tail. I make a good pet.
I like to eat cheese. Sometimes I can do tricks.
What am I? mouse What am I? dog
7. I have four paws. 8. I live on a farm.

I am soft and furry. I am a big animal.
When people pet me, I purr. I have a mane on my neck.
What am I? cat What am I? horse
Riddles
Look at these pictures and listen carefully to your teacher.
Riddles
Riddles 6
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 116 and ask students to name each picture
before you read the riddles.
Listen carefully as I give you clues about one of these things. Then guess which one I’m
talking about.
1. This is clothing. 2. These are clothing.

It doesn’t have legs. They have a zipper.
It rhymes with shirt. They are made of denim.
What is it? skirt What are they? jeans
3. This is clothing. 4. You wear these on your feet.

You wear it around your neck. They often have fur inside.
It keeps you warm. They protect your feet from rain or snow.
What is it? scarf What are they? boots
5. This is clothing. 6. You wear these on your feet.

It doesn’t have legs. You usually don’t wear socks with them.
It keeps your arms warm. They help keep your feet cool.
What is it? sweater What are they? sandals
7. These are clothing. 8. You wear this around your neck.

You wear them on your legs. It can be many different colors.
They don’t cover your knees. Men wear it with a suit.
What are they? shorts What is it? tie
Riddles
Riddles
Riddles 7
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 118 and some crayons.
Listen to some rhyming riddles that tell what happened in art class. Then follow the
directions.
1. Grumpy Greg should have stayed in bed.

He spilled this on Mr. Shed.
What did Greg spill? paint
Color it red.
2. Silly Drew has something on his shoe.

Now he’s stuck and doesn’t know what to do.
What did Drew step in? glue
Color it purple.
3. Darling Danielle is proud of her work.

She’s jumping up and down and going berserk!
What did Danielle draw a picture of? fish
Color it green.
4. Tiny Tia smiles and draws

Dinosaurs with purple claws.
What does Tia use to draw her picture? crayons
Color them different colors.
5. This is the person in charge of the class.

He’s holding a picture of trees and grass.
Who is this person? Mr. Shed, teacher
Color Mr. Shed’s pants blue, his shoes brown, and his sweater yellow.
6. The poster on the wall says “Art is Fun!”

Yes, some kids think art is number one.
But there’s math and spelling and reading, too.

So many fun things to learn that are new!
We can learn a lot, and that’s real cool.

That’s why it’s important to go to _____! school
Riddles
Look at this picture. Listen carefully and follow the directions.

118
Riddles
Riddles 8
Listen carefully to what I say and guess where I am.
1. My gauge is on empty so I pull into the next one I see. I take the nozzle from the pump
and begin filling my tank. Where am I? gas station
2. I put my money here to keep it safe and to earn interest. I have a checking account here.
I can also get a loan from this place to buy a home or a car. Where am I? bank
3. My class is here on a tour. The officer shows us the jail. We meet the captain, and he
lets us take turns sitting in a squad car. Where am I? police station
4. The lines are long, but I don’t care. The log ride is my favorite! I ride it as many times as
I can. I also enjoy the Ferris wheel. You can see everything from the top of a Ferris
wheel. Where am I? amusement park
5. First we find a spot that’s level and surrounded by trees. Then I gather wood for the fire
while Dad sets up the tent. Where am I? woods, camping, campground
6. What a hot day! I’m glad our town has this place to cool off. I can’t swim very well, so I
need to stay in the shallow end. My brother can jump off the diving board. Where am I?
swimming pool
7. The stage curtains are closed. The audience members are in their seats. My best friend
has the lead role. My aunt made some of the costumes, and I helped with the set.
Where am I? play, auditorium, theater
8. The judge comes in and we all stand. The jury is in the jury box. The defendant, the
plaintiff, and the attorneys are ready. The first witness is called. Where am I?
courtroom, trial
Riddles
Riddles 9
1. Boy, am I tired! I pull the shades down and get undressed. I put on my pajamas, lie
down, and pull the covers up over me. It’s time to close my eyes. Where am I?
bedroom, in bed
2. Wow, look at those big jets! I love to watch them take off. Here comes the baggage cart
to load the suitcases onto the plane. I’d better hurry so I don’t miss my flight. Where am
I? airport
3. Dad and I come here every Friday night. We go up and down the aisles looking at
everything on the shelves. Sometimes I pick a movie about animals. Other times I like to
get something funny to watch. Where am I? video store
4. It’s so hot outside, we came here to get something cool to eat. There are 35 different
flavors to choose from. Aunt Sharon wants a cup of frozen yogurt. I’m going to get a
double-dip of strawberry on a sugar cone. Where am I? ice cream parlor
5. We climb the bleachers in the school gym and find our seats. The referee tosses the ball
into the air and two players jump for it to begin the game. One player dribbles the ball
down the court. She shoots, and she scores! Two points for the Tigers. Where am I?
basketball game
6. We don’t have much time for dinner, so we go here to eat. We step up to the counter to
order our food from the menu on the wall. The cashier rings up our order on the cash
register and gives us our food on a tray. Where am I? fast-food restaurant, cafeteria
7. Mmm, it smells like popcorn in here! I bought my ticket and found a great seat so I can
see the whole screen. The previews are starting. Shhh . . . no talking allowed! Where
am I? movie theater
8. Yeah, it’s time for recess! Some of my friends and I are playing kickball. Kevin likes to
see how high he can get on the swings. Ashley promised Danielle she’d jump rope with
her, but they’re going to play a game of four-square first. When the bell rings, we’ll all go
back inside. Where am I? playground
Riddles
Riddles 10
1. First we get a shopping cart. Then we go up and down the aisles looking for the items on
our shopping list. Let’s start in the produce section where we get our fresh fruits and
vegetables. Next we’ll go to the meat and dairy sections. Where am I? grocery store
2. I love coming here. Sometimes my sister and I build a castle in the sand. Other times
we collect shells to take home. I always have fun trying to jump over the waves as they
roll toward the shore. Where am I? beach
3. I have a bad earache, so my stepdad brought me here. We sit in chairs while we wait,
and I read a book and my stepdad looks at a magazine. There are several other people
waiting, too. Every once in awhile, a nurse opens a door and calls a person’s name.
Where am I? doctor’s office, medical clinic
4. Wow, there are so many different animals here! Let’s go to the reptile house to see the
lizards and snakes first. Then Mom wants to go to the jungle area to see the elephants,
lions, and zebras. The last place we’ll go is the arctic area where they keep the polar
bears and penguins. Where am I? zoo
5. It’s my grandfather’s birthday next week and I need to send him his present. When I get
to the counter, the person weighs my package and tells me how much postage I need. I
pay for the postage and leave my package there to be mailed. Where am I? post office
6. We brought our lawn chairs and some blankets to sit on. The floats are beautiful!
Everyone claps as the high school marching band goes by playing its school song. Hold
your ears — here comes the fire truck with its siren on. Look! There’s a clown walking
next to the fire truck throwing candy. Where am I? parade
7. I got into an argument with a friend on the playground and hit him. My mom got a phone
call from the school, and now she’s in here with me for the meeting. I make a promise to
be kinder to people. Where am I? principal’s office
8. Wow! I can’t believe how many different games there are here! Which one should I play
first? I find one with lots of funny space people on it and put my money in. BLEEP,
BLEEP, BLEEP. Yeah, I won! Some tickets come out of the machine, and I take them to
the counter to exchange them for a prize. Where am I? arcade
Riddles
Riddles 11
Listen to these riddles. I’ll give you two answers that could be right for each riddle. Tell me
the best answer for each one and why.
1. Which has eyes but can’t see, a potato or a flower? potato
2. Which has ears but can’t hear, slippers or corn? corn
3. Which goes to bed with its shoes on, a horse or a dog? horse
4. Which kind of band doesn’t make music, a marching band or a rubber band? rubber
band
5. Which has keys but can’t open doors, a guitar or a piano? piano
6. Which building has the most stories, a library or a grocery store? library
7. Which do you always answer even though it never asks a question, the phone or a
teacher? phone
8. Which has four legs and a back but no body, a table or a chair? chair
9. Which can you break even if you don’t drop it, a glass or a promise? promise
10. Where do cows go on vacation, Moo York or New York? Moo York
11. Where do sheep go to get their hair cut, the barber shop or the baa-baa shop? baa-baa
shop
12. Which belongs to you that other people use more than you do, your hand or your name?
your name
13. Where do cars get the most flat tires, on the highway or where there’s a fork in the road?
where there’s a fork in the road
14. Why are fish the smartest animals in the world, because they travel in schools or
because they can swim? because they travel in schools
15. Why did it get so hot after the basketball game, because the heat was on or because all
the fans left? because all the fans left
16. Why did Humpty Dumpty have a great fall, to make up for a lousy summer or because he
was an egg? to make up for a lousy summer
Riddles
Riddles 12
Use the riddles on pages 124-127 to expand your students’ vocabulary, language, and critical
thinking skills. Give the first clue. Then elicit and record as many guesses as possible that fit
that clue. For example:
Clue 1 — It is made of metal.
Guesses — scissors, ax, paper clip, safety pin, thumbtack, key, bracelet, ring, staple,
mailbox, spoon, knife, fork, pan, garbage can, magnet, bird cage, picture frame
As your students brainstorm their guesses, encourage discussion of any guesses that don’t fit
the clue. For example:
Guess — money
“Is all money made of metal? Could we use another word that means money, but only
money that’s made of metal? Yes, a coin or a quarter would fit the clue.”
Give the second clue. Ask your students to pick which guesses to the first clue are still in the
running. Make a new list of these items, or highlight them in the first list. Have your students
explain why or how each one fits both clues. Then ask if anyone can think of new guesses
that weren’t listed before. For example:
Clue 2 — It is used to fasten things together.
Guesses from Clue 1 — paper clip, safety pin, staple
Additional guesses — button, snap, zipper
Give the third clue. Ask your students to choose the best guess. Have them justify why it’s
the best guess.
Clue 3 — It has teeth.
Answer — zipper, because a zipper is made of metal, fastens things together, and has
teeth
Note: The riddles on pages 124-126 are about concrete items. They help students to apply
what they know about categories, functions, and attributes. The riddles on page 127 are
about abstract concepts, like friend or surprise. These riddles are more sophisticated, but just
as helpful to students as a way to expand their vocabularies and to encourage them to be
flexible thinkers.
Riddles
Concrete Riddles
1. It has a handle.
2. It has bristles.
3. You use it to keep your teeth clean. toothbrush
1. It holds water.
2. It has a drain.
3. It can be inside or outside.
4. People can dive into it. swimming pool
1. It is soft.
2. It is in the bathroom and in the kitchen.
3. You use it to dry things. towel
1. You put things in it.

2. It is shaped like a rectangle.
3. It has a handle.
4. It is part of a dresser. drawer
1. You eat it.

2. It is yellow.
3. You can spread it on bread. butter
1. It can fly.
2. It is an insect.
3. It doesn’t sting.
4. It starts out as a caterpillar. butterfly
1. It is a fruit.
2. It is yellow on the outside.
3. It is soft on the inside.
4. Monkeys like to eat it. banana
1. It is a woman.
2. She is a relative.
3. She has a niece or a nephew. aunt
1. It is a body part.
2. It doesn’t have any bones.
3. You use it to breathe.
4. It is on your face. nose
1. It is long and thin.

2. You can tie it.
3. It goes with shoes. shoelace
Riddles
Concrete Riddles, continued
1. It is at school.
2. It is a piece of furniture.
3. You put your books in it. desk
1. It is a kind of transportation.
2. Many people can ride in it.
3. It has wings. airplane
1. It is a kind of food.
2. It has a crust.
3. You put toppings on it.
4. One topping is pepperoni. pizza
1. It is sharp.
2. It is made of metal.
3. It has two handles.
4. You use it to cut paper. scissors
1. It is a building.
2. It has many rooms inside.
3. Sometimes it has a swimming pool.
4. People pay to sleep here. hotel, motel
1. It is white.
2. It comes in a bottle.
3. It is sticky.
4. You use it to hold papers together. glue
1. It is outside.
2. It grows.
3. It has leaves.
4. Sometimes you can climb it. tree
1. People wear them.

2. They have lenses.
3. They help people see better. glasses
1. It is a job.
2. The person who has this job wears a uniform.
3. This person might use a hose and an ax. firefighter
1. It smells bad.
2. It is something you no longer want.
3. You put it outside in a bag or can. garbage, trash
Riddles
Concrete Riddles, continued
1. It is a game.
2. You play it outside.
3. It doesn’t use a ball.
4. You draw numbers on the sidewalk to play it. hopscotch
1. It is part of a building.
2. You can open or shut it.
3. It can be big or small.
4. It is made of glass. window
1. Its shape changes.

2. You can’t touch it.
3. It is big.
4. It is usually white or gray.
5. It is in the sky. cloud
1. It is outside.
2. It is made of metal.
3. It is by a street or streets.
4. It tells cars when to stop or go. stoplight
1. It goes up.
2. It can be white, light gray, or very dark gray.
3. It can hurt your lungs.
4. It comes from a fire. smoke
1. It is an animal.
2. It is a pet.
3. It doesn’t have fur.
4. It lives in a bowl or an aquarium. fish
1. It is a loud noise.
2. It rumbles.
3. You hear it during a rainstorm. thunder
1. You put things in it.

2. It has a zipper.
3. You use it when you go on a trip. suitcase
1. It is in the city.
2. It is usually near the street.
3. It is made of cement.
4. You walk on it. sidewalk
Riddles
Abstract Riddles
1. Sometimes you feel this with your body.

2. It is easy to take care of.
3. It means you need something to eat. hunger
1. It is a group of people.
2. The people can be many different ages.
3. It means the same as relatives. family
1. You can hear it.

2. You can play it or sing it.
3. It has notes and rhythm. music, song
1. It is a way to feel inside.

2. It is an unhappy feeling.
3. You feel this way when you miss your family or friends. lonely
1. It is something you think.

2. It is something you want.
3. You make one when you see a falling star. wish
1. It is a sound you make with your voice.

2. It is not loud.
3. You talk this way when you don’t want anyone to hear you. whisper
1. It describes some animals.

2. It can be dangerous to go near animals that are like this.
3. It is the opposite of tame. wild
1. It is a person.
2. It is someone you know well.
3. It is someone you like a lot.
4. It is usually someone your age. friend
1. It is words.
2. It can tell a story.
3. It is usually short.
4. Sometimes the words rhyme. poetry, poem
1. It is a way to feel inside.

2. It is not a good feeling.
3. You feel this way when someone has something you want. jealous
Riddles
Following Directions 1-3
Following Directions 1
Directions tell us what to do. Listen carefully and follow my directions.
1. What color are your eyes? Color the eyes on this face that color.
2 Draw eyebrows over the eyes.
3. Draw a smile on the face if you feel happy today. Draw a frown on the face if you
feel sad.
4. What color is your hair? Put hair the same color as your hair on top of the head.
1. Draw stars on each monkey’s shirt.
2. Put a bow tie on each seal.
3. Draw a cage around each lion.
4. Draw some flowers on the clown’s baggy pants.
1. Draw a moustache on the magician.
2. Put a magic wand in the magician’s hand.
3. Draw two rabbit ears sticking out of the magician’s hat.
4. Color the magician’s hat orange.
5. There is an empty vase on the magician’s table. Draw two flowers in the vase. Color one
flower red. Color the other flower yellow.
Following Directions
Following Directions 1, continued Name __________________________
Listen carefully and follow your teacher’s directions.
1. Color the dog’s nose pink.
2. Draw a bone next to the dog.
3. Put a collar on the dog. Color it blue.
4. Draw four black spots on the dog. Make sure one of the spots is on the dog’s ear.
5. This dog’s name is Dot. Write Dot on her water dish.
1. Write your last name on the line.
2. Say the ABCs. Draw a smiley face in the box if you said them correctly.
3. Draw a circle around the stars.
4. Read the sentence with me. “Our class eats lunch first.” Underline the word first.
5. Tell your address and phone number. Draw a star in the circle if you did a good job.
6. Connect the dots in order.
7. Draw a picture of a flag on the flagpole.
8. Draw a box around the letter m.
9. Turn your paper over. Trace around your hand.
Listen and follow your teacher’s directions.

133
1 2
3 4
★ ★
Our class eats lunch first.
5 6
1
•
2 3
• •
7 • 8
m s r
Listen and follow these math directions.
1. Count the flowers and write the number on the line. 5
2. Write the numbers from one to ten on the line.

3
3. Add 3 + 3. + 3
6 4
4. Subtract 3 from 4. - 3
1 6
5. Add your answers from #3 and #4. + 1
7
6. Match the numbers.
7. Write the number that completes the pattern. 7
8. Write in the missing numbers. 15, 25
9. Write the numbers of your phone number. Answers will vary.
10. Write this number on the line: 131.
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 137 and a red crayon.
Listen and follow these directions.
1. First, count the circles. Next, color the middle circle red. Then, draw a line through the
first circle. Finally, draw a smiley face in the last circle.
2. Here are two triangles. Make the small triangle into an upside-down ice-cream cone.
Draw a circle around the other triangle.
3. First, count the lines. Next, write your teacher’s name on the first line. Then, write your
name on the line in the middle. Finally, write the name of your favorite food on the last
line.
4. Here are four apples. Draw a circle around the apple on the left. Now, skip two apples
and draw an X on the next apple.
1 2
3 4
5 6 0 3
3 9
5 0
6 5
9 6
7 8
1, 3, 5, 5, 10, , 20,
9 10
1.
2.
3.
4.
1. Raise your right hand.
2. Look at your feet.
3. Tap your pencil five times.
4. Fold your hands.
5. Fold your arms across your chest.
6. Stand up and push your chair in close to your desk.
7. Name five kids in your class.
8. Tell how to get to your home from school.
9. Go to the back of the room and name three things you see in the front of the room.
10. Take out a sheet of paper and a pencil.
11. Write your name, address, and age.
12. Draw three boxes in a row. Color in the first box. Then skip a box and color in the
last box.
13. Look up the word ocean in the dictionary and write the definition.
14. Draw a sun, a tree, and an apple. Color each one.
Listen to these directions. They tell you how to wash a dog. Write the number of the direction
under each picture you need to follow the direction. Sometimes you’ll use a picture for more
than one direction.
1. Put the wash tub outside.

2. Find lots of old towels to dry the dog.
3. Put the bottle of dog shampoo near the wash tub.
4. Find a brush so you can brush the dog’s fur after he’s clean.
5. Fill the wash tub with buckets of warm water.
6. Put the dog in the wash tub.
7. Soap up the dog with the dog shampoo.
8. Use the rag to gently wash the dog.
9. Pour a bucket of warm water over the dog to rinse out the shampoo.
10. Dry the dog with towels.
11. Carefully brush the dog’s fur until it shines.
Answers
wash tub: 1, 3, 5, 6 shampoo: 3, 7
bucket: 5, 9 towels: 2, 10
rag: 8 brush: 4, 11
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 141, some crayons, and a pencil.
1. If Carrie rhymes with Larry, draw a red check mark in the box and stand up.
2. Count to five and write your name in the box.
3. Say the days of the week and give yourself a blue ribbon.
4. If you’re wearing red, color the shirt red. If you’re not wearing red, underline the shirt
in blue.
5. Spell the name of your school and write it backwards on the line.
6. Tell the time you woke up today. Then use your pencil to draw the time on the clocks.
7. Describe the weather today. Then use your brown crayon to circle the symbol that
matches it. You may circle more than one symbol.
8. If you like to work on computers, draw a green circle around the picture. If you don’t like
to work on computers, draw a purple X on the picture.
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
Teacher note: Answers are italicized.
Listen to these directions. They tell you when to do something. Tell me the words in each
direction that tell when.
1. Take out your crayons now.
2. Be ready for bed by nine o’ clock.
3. First, read the words on your spelling list.
4. Bring your permission slip for the field trip tomorrow.
5. Meet on the field at two o’clock for soccer practice.
6. Please set your alarm for seven o’clock.
7. We will go to the library every Friday. You may check out up to five books.
8. After reading class, we’ll go to the music room.
9. Call me after school today so we can talk about our science experiment.
10. Before we eat, you need to pick up your room.
11. Reread the story you wrote yesterday to check for spelling and punctuation errors.
12. I’d like you to clean out your desk this afternoon.
13. You’ll need to collect leaves over the weekend for your art assignment next week.
14. After you finish your math assignment, you can read your library book until it’s time
for spelling.
15. My dentist says to brush your teeth after every meal. It’s also a good idea to brush
right before going to bed.
Sometimes directions tell you where to do something. Listen to these directions. Tell me the
words in each direction that tell where.
1. Draw a line around the picture.
2. Go to the corner to wait for the bus.
3. Hang your coat in the closet.
4. Put this bandage on the cut.
5. Meet me in the library after school to work on our report.
6. Please put the book back on the bookshelf when you’re done reading it.
7. Read the story about polar bears on page 20 and write a summary.
8. Turn left on Holly Road to get to my house.
9. Chain your bike to the bike rack when you go to the park so it doesn’t get stolen.
10. Walk around the track two times after running a long race to cool down.
11. After school, look on the refrigerator door for your list of chores to do before Mom
gets home.
12. Be sure to wear pads on your elbows and knees when in-line skating. You should also
wear a helmet.
13. Find the numbers in the phone book and call the people on this list.
14. Look in the hall closet for your shoes. If you can’t find them, look under your bed.
15. Your assignment is to write in your journal about your ideal pet. Draw a picture of your
pet at the bottom of the page.
Listen to these directions. They tell you how to do something. Tell me the words in each
direction that tell how.
1. Line up in order.
2. Write your name in capital letters.
3. Fold the paper in half.
4. Wash your hands with soap.
5. Wipe the counter with paper towels.
6. Run as fast as you can.
7. Squeeze the tube of toothpaste from the bottom.
8. Trace around the picture with your blue crayon.
9. To plant a flower, first dig a hole five inches deep.
10. Drink your milk shake through a straw.
11. Carry your lunch tray with both hands so you won’t drop it.
12. Decorate your bike with streamers for the holiday parade next Saturday.
13. Stir the batter with a big spoon to make sure the ingredients mix well.
14. Hop on one foot across the room, then sit on the floor with your legs crossed.
15. To play Hide and Seek, count to 10 without looking, then look carefully to find
your friends.
Sometimes directions are hard to follow. Listen to each direction and tell why it is hard to
follow.
1. Write your answer here.

I don’t know where “here” is.
2. Draw a trat near the foop.

What is a “trat” and “foop”?
3. Please cut my hair.

You didn’t say how to cut it.
4. Go to the corner and walk.

How far should I walk and in what direction?
5. Teach me how.
How to do what?
6. Open your books.

Which books and to what page?
7. To get to school, turn on Second Street.

Which way do I turn?
8. Go to the gym to pick up the equipment we need.

What equipment do we need?
9. Do some math problems for homework tonight.

Which math problems?
10. Read a chapter by tomorrow.

Which chapter?
11. Bring your money for class pictures tomorrow.

How much are the pictures?
12. Submit your entries to the Science Fair by next Monday.

Who do I submit my entry to?
Listen to these directions. What do they give directions for?
1. Draw a circle on your paper. Make two eyes, a nose in the middle of the circle, and a
mouth below the nose. Then draw hair around the outside of the circle. making a face
2. Get a sheet of paper and a pencil. Write the date in the top right-hand corner. Write
“Dear Grandma” on the left side of the paper, three lines below the date. Write about
what you’ve been up to. Sign your name at the bottom. writing a letter
3. I take off my pajamas. Then I put on my underwear. Next I put on my socks, shirt, and
pants. After that, I put on my shoes. Finally, I comb my hair, wash my face, and brush
my teeth. getting dressed
4. Take two slices of bread and put them on a plate. Put a slice of ham on one piece of
bread. Put a slice of cheese on top of the ham. Spread some mustard on the other slice
of bread. Put the two slices of bread together. making a sandwich
5. Get a small bowl and a spoon. Pour cereal into the bowl. Pour milk over the cereal.
fixing breakfast
6. Smooth out the sheets and blankets. Put the pillow near the top of the bed. Pull the
bedspread over the blanket and pillow. making the bed
7. Fill a big pot with water. Put the pot on the stove and put a lid on the pot. Turn the burner
on high. Wait for the water to boil. Put noodles in the boiling water and stir. Keep stirring
and cooking until the noodles are soft. Drain the water off the noodles and serve with
tomato sauce. making spaghetti
8. Sort the clothes into piles — darks, whites, and colors. Put a pile in the washer and turn
the washer on. Add detergent and fabric softener. When the clothes are clean, put them
in the dryer and turn the dryer on. After the clothes are dry, fold them and put them away.
doing laundry
Follow my directions to see what you can make with the shapes.
1. Pick up one of the big rectangles. Lay it down in front of you so that it’s tall.
2. Pick up the other big rectangle. Lay it down to the right of the tall rectangle so that it’s
long. Make sure the bottoms of the two rectangles are even.
3. Pick up one of the small rectangles. Put it inside the tall rectangle, in the top right hand
corner.
4. Pick up the other small rectangle. Put it above the long rectangle so it touches the top.
5. Pick up the large circle. Put it on the bottom of the tall rectangle. Make sure half of the
circle is on the rectangle and half is below the rectangle.
6. Pick up the small circle. Put it on the bottom of the long rectangle near the right side.
Make sure half of the circle is on the rectangle and half is below the rectangle.
Cut out these shapes. Listen carefully and follow your teacher’s directions to make something
with them.
Listen as I give you some directions for calling your friend on the phone. For each direction,
I’m going to ask you to choose a word that best completes it.
1. Open the telephone book to the white/yellow pages. white
2. Look for your friend’s last name. The names are listed in alphabetical/numerical order.
alphabetical
3. If there’s more than one person with your friend’s last name, look at the last/first names of
the people. first These will be in numerical/alphabetical order, too. alphabetical
4. If you can’t find your friend’s number in the phone/library book, you can call directory
assistance. phone
5. Have paper and a scissors/pencil handy so you can write down the telephone number.
pencil
6. When/Where you find your friend’s number, pick up the phone and give your friend a call!
When
Now choose the best words to complete these directions for making a model airplane.
1. Buy a model airplane kit, glue, small boxes/jars of model paint, and a paintbrush. jars
2. Cover a table with newspaper/books so you can glue and paint without getting anything
on the table. newspaper
3. Open the kit and read/write all the directions. read
4. Carefully tape/glue the pieces together the way the directions show you to. glue
5. Let the glue/paint dry. glue
6. Decide which colors to use to color/paint the airplane. paint
7. Then let the glue/paint dry. paint
Exclusion 1 Name __________________________
Listen to what I say. Say yes if it makes sense. Say no if it doesn’t make sense.
1. You don’t eat with a pencil. yes
2. A dog doesn’t bark. no
3. Moms don’t have children. no
4. Paper isn’t for writing on. no
5. Tigers don’t live in apartments. yes
6. A saw isn’t for cutting boards. no
7. You don’t drink gasoline. yes
8. Monkeys don’t read books. yes
9. Schools aren’t for learning. no
10. A camera isn’t for taking pictures. no
11. You don’t cut paper with scissors. no
12. People don’t drive cars. no
13. Grapes aren’t for sliding on. yes
14. A hair dryer doesn’t use electricity. no
15. You don’t use a calendar to see what time it is. yes
16. A freezer isn’t for keeping food warm. yes
17. A police officer doesn’t work in a bakery. yes
18. You don’t look up information on the Internet. no
19. A President doesn’t lead a country. no
20. An evergreen doesn’t lose its needles in cold weather. yes
21. Boots don’t keep your feet warm and dry. no
22. You don’t use a toothbrush to comb your hair. yes
Exclusion
Exclusion 2
Teacher note: The correct statements are italicized.
Which statement is correct?
1. A cat is an animal. A cat isn’t an animal.
2. Pizza is a drink. Pizza isn’t a drink.
3. A necklace is food. A necklace isn’t food.
4. A bus is a vehicle. A bus isn’t a vehicle.
5. Pants and shirts are clothing. Pants and shirts aren’t clothing.
6. Roses are flowers. Roses aren’t flowers.
7. Navy is a color. Navy isn’t a color.
8. A saw is a plant. A saw isn’t a plant.
9. A jar is a container. A jar isn’t a container.
10. The library is a place. The library isn’t a place.
11. A guitar is a building. A guitar isn’t a building.
12. A wrench is a tool. A wrench isn’t a tool.
13. A house is a building. A house isn’t a building.
14. Cold tablets are medicine. Cold tablets aren’t medicine.
15. The Pacific is a country. The Pacific isn’t a country.
16. A dictionary is a reference book. A dictionary isn’t a reference book.
17. Hawaii is an island. Hawaii isn’t an island.
18. Firefighting is a career. Firefighting isn’t a career.
19. A blender is a toy. A blender isn’t a toy.
20. Saturn is a planet. Saturn isn’t a planet.
21. A skateboard is clothing. A skateboard isn’t clothing.
22. A tornado is a natural disaster. A tornado isn’t a natural disaster.
Exclusion
Exclusion 3
1. Which one isn’t dark, night or day? day
2. Which one isn’t small, a marble or a beach ball? beach ball
3. Which one isn’t cold, a rock or an ice cube? rock
4. Which one isn’t tall, a telephone pole or a stop sign? stop sign
5. Which one isn’t sharp, a knife or a spoon? spoon
6. Which one isn’t soft, a pillow or a brick? brick
7. Which one isn’t fast, a turtle or a cheetah? turtle
8. Which one isn’t wet, rain or sand? sand
9. Which one isn’t hot, snow or a volcano? snow
10. Which one isn’t round, a ball or a box? box
11. Which one isn’t long, a snake or a ladybug? ladybug
12. Which one isn’t rough, sandpaper or ice? ice
13. Which one isn’t hard, a blanket or a diamond? blanket
14. Which one isn’t light, a feather or a bowling ball? bowling ball
15. Which one isn’t living, a boulder or a plant? boulder
16. Which one isn’t solid, water or cement? water
17. Which one isn’t shiny, a mirror or a chalkboard? chalkboard
18. Which one isn’t stinky, a skunk or perfume? perfume
19. Which one isn’t flexible, a board or a watchband? board
20. Which one isn’t expensive, emeralds or glass? glass
21. Which one isn’t bigger than you, a bus or a tricycle? tricycle
22. Which one doesn’t have spots, a ladybug or a zebra? zebra
Exclusion
Exclusion 4
Teacher note: The correct answers are italicized.
1. Which of these doesn’t sleep?

rock baby teacher
2. Which of these things isn’t red?
tomato celery apple
3. Which of these isn’t an animal?
elephant bird tree
4. Which of these doesn’t grow?
hair sidewalk child
5. Which of these things isn’t a musical instrument?
piano guitar tennis racquet
6. Which of these things doesn’t help you stay clean?
shampoo toothpaste towel
7. Which of these doesn’t hop?
snake rabbit toad
8. Which of these isn’t short?
duck cat giraffe
9. Which of these things isn’t smooth?
mirror bark desktop
10. Which of these things isn’t a tool?
pliers screwdriver calendar
11. Which of these things isn’t a fruit?
` milk shake strawberry banana
12. Which of these isn’t a sport?
football baseball reading
13. Which of these things doesn’t run on electricity?
skateboard refrigerator television
14. Which of these isn’t a country?
Russia Atlanta Japan
Exclusion
Exclusion 5
Teacher note: The correct answers are italicized.
1. Which of these is an animal that doesn’t have legs?

horse snake dog
2. Which of these is a vegetable that isn’t green?
peas onion celery
3. Which of these is a fruit that isn’t yellow?
banana watermelon apple
4. Which of these is a food that you don’t eat warm?
spaghetti soup ice cream
5. Which of these is a tool that doesn’t use electricity?
wrench drill chain saw
6. Which of these animals has spots but not a long neck?
camel ladybug giraffe
7. Which of these things do you ride that isn’t big?
skateboard roller coaster bus
8. Which of these clothes might have a zipper but no legs?
jeans jacket shorts
9. Which of these is jewelry you don’t wear around your wrist?
watch bracelet necklace
10. Which of these animals might you see in the zoo but not in the jungle?
penguin monkey tiger
11. Which of these ingredients that isn’t meat would you put on a sandwich?
turkey ham Swiss cheese
12. Which of these is a liquid that you wouldn’t pour in a glass?
gasoline milk tea
13. Which of these is an island but not a country?
Hawaii Great Britain Cuba
14. Which of these is an emergency vehicle you wouldn’t see at a fire?
ambulance tow truck fire truck
Exclusion
Exclusion 6
Name something that . . .
1. you don’t use to brush your teeth.
2. you don’t use to write with.
3. you don’t wear on your feet.
4. you don’t use to get dry.
5. you don’t read.
6. you would never eat.

7. you shouldn’t drink.
8. you don’t need for measuring.
9. you don’t eat with.
10. you don’t wash with.
11. doesn’t purr.
12. doesn’t help you see at night.
13. doesn’t live in the zoo.
14. doesn’t ever grow.
15. you wouldn’t use to cook with.
16. doesn’t help you fix things.
17. doesn’t help you get places.
18. you wouldn’t use to slice.
19. doesn’t keep bugs away.
20. isn’t fun to watch.
21. doesn’t keep you warm.
22. you would never see on a playground.
23. you don’t need to play soccer.
24. you can’t pour.
Exclusion
Exclusion 7
Name something that isn’t . . .
1. a color.
2. an animal.
3. a toy.
4. a kind of transportation.
5. summer clothing.
6. furniture.
7. a school subject.
8. a type of weather.
9. a vegetable.
10. an appliance.
11. a tool.
12. a kitchen utensil.
13. a type of tree.
14. a safety rule.
15. a pet.
16. a place to visit.
17. a musical instrument.
18. a container.
19. an insect.
20. a cartoon character.
21. a planet.
22. a cleaning supply.
23. a fastener.
24. a continent.
Exclusion
Exclusion 8
1. isn’t warm.
2. doesn’t have feathers.
3. isn’t soft.
4. isn’t red.
5. doesn’t have legs.
6. isn’t made of wood.

7. isn’t light.
8. you don’t find outside.
9. isn’t large.
10. isn’t made of plastic.
11. doesn’t have windows.
12. isn’t colorful.
13. isn’t made of glass.
14. isn’t flexible.
15. isn’t rough.
16. doesn’t have drawers.
17. isn’t sharp.
18. isn’t bright.
19. you can’t climb.
20. isn’t loud.
21. isn’t crunchy.
22. doesn’t grow.
23. isn’t long and narrow.
24. isn’t wet and slippery.
Exclusion
Exclusion 9
1. you use to brush your teeth that isn’t a toothbrush. toothpaste
2. you drink that isn’t milk. juice, water, soda pop
3. you wear that isn’t jeans. shorts, shirt, sweater, dress
4. is black that you don’t draw with. tire, sky at night, dirt
5. is yellow that isn’t in the sky. lemon, crayon, school bus
6. is red that isn’t an apple. strawberry, cherry, STOP sign
7. is purple that isn’t a flower. grape, plum, eggplant
8. you eat that isn’t warm. ice cream, cereal, salad
9. you read that isn’t a book. magazine, road sign, newspaper
10. is soft that isn’t a marshmallow. pillow, cat, baby
11. you ride that isn’t a bike. skateboard, moped, horse
12. you study that isn’t math. spelling, social studies, science
13. you see in the sky that isn’t a planet. sun, moon, stars
14. a teacher does that isn’t teach. supervise the playground, read, tell stories
15. you watch that isn’t a movie. parade, soccer game, play
16. is sharp that isn’t a knife. pencil, pin, shark’s tooth
17. has drawers that isn’t a dresser. desk, kitchen, entertainment center
18. you do before going to bed that isn’t brush your teeth. get undressed, put on
pajamas, read a story
19. is clear that isn’t air. water, glass, plastic
20. police officers do that isn’t arrest people. protect people, talk to children about
staying off drugs, control traffic
Exclusion
Exclusion 10
1. Tell me an animal with stripes that isn’t a tiger. zebra, some cats
2. Name a color of the rainbow that isn’t red. blue, orange, yellow
3. Name a jungle animal that doesn’t swing from trees. giraffe, lion, hippopotamus
4. Tell me a fruit that is round but not orange. apple, grape, grapefruit
5. Tell me a game you play outside that isn’t “Tag.” baseball, soccer, football
6. Name a food that is crunchy that isn’t a potato chip. carrot, popcorn, crackers
7. Name a vegetable that is long that isn’t a cucumber. corn, celery, carrot
8. Name a toy that you throw that isn’t a ball. Frisbee®, paper airplane, boomerang
9. Tell me a dish you eat from that isn’t a bowl. plate
10. Tell me a tool with sharp edges that isn’t a pair of scissors. screwdriver, hammer, saw
11. Tell me a kind of transportation for a lot of people that isn’t a bus. airplane, subway, train
12. Name a type of weather that is windy that isn’t a hurricane. tornado, thunderstorm
13. Name a piece of clothing that has sleeves that isn’t a shirt. sweater, jacket
14. Name a sport that a team plays that isn’t baseball. soccer, basketball, hockey
15. Tell me a season when it rains that isn’t spring. summer, winter, fall
16. Tell me a coin that is larger than a dime that isn’t a quarter. nickel, penny
17. Name a fastener that is round that isn’t a button. snap
18. Name a job that helps people get better that isn’t a doctor. nurse, pharmacist
19. Name a country that never gets snow that isn’t Mexico. Fiji, Jamaica, Brazil
20. Tell me a liquid you pour in lawn mowers that isn’t oil. gasoline
Exclusion
Exclusion 11
1. What is something you wouldn’t wear in the winter?
2. What wouldn’t you do with a baseball?
3. What wouldn’t you do to your pet?
4. What is something you wouldn’t drink?
5. What is something a child shouldn’t do?
6. What is something you wouldn’t say to a friend?
7. What wouldn’t you eat if you were hungry?
8. What is something you wouldn’t wear to bed?
9. What wouldn’t you do if there were a fire in your home?
10. What wouldn’t you do if you were alone and the phone rang?
11. What is something you can’t buy at a grocery store?
12. What is something you don’t ask an adult?
13. What wouldn’t you do if you got lost at the mall?
14. What wouldn’t you do at the movies?
15. What wouldn’t you do if you crossed a busy street?
16. What wouldn’t you wear while you were riding a bike?
17. What wouldn’t you do while you were taking a test?
18. What is something you wouldn’t say to an unhappy friend?
19. What wouldn’t you see at a band concert?
20. What is something teens shouldn’t do?
Exclusion
Exclusion 12
1. When wouldn’t you wear shorts?
2. Where wouldn’t you go to see a movie?
3. Who wouldn’t you get in a car with?
4. Where wouldn’t you cross the street?
5. What wouldn’t you put on a sandwich?
6. When wouldn’t you go barefoot?
7. How wouldn’t you walk down the hall?
8. How wouldn’t you talk in a library?
9. When wouldn’t you go to school?
10. What couldn’t you buy in a music store?
11. What kind of animal wouldn’t make a good pet?
12. Where wouldn’t be a good place to play?
13. When wouldn’t you wear sunglasses?
14. How wouldn’t you talk to a teacher?
15. How wouldn’t you write a report?
16. How wouldn’t you make a speech?
17. Where wouldn’t you take a test?
18. Where wouldn’t you ride a skateboard?
19. When wouldn’t you listen to music?
20. Where wouldn’t you go with a friend?
Exclusion
Exclusion 13
I’ll tell you some information. Then I’ll ask you a question.
1. Lauri turned five on Saturday. For her birthday she got a bike and a video game. Which
thing won’t she ride? video game
2. Shanna lost her front tooth yesterday. She put it under her pillow and in the morning she
found a note and two quarters. Which thing couldn’t she spend? note
3. Jason went to the library. He found two books and a video that he wanted to check out.
Which thing couldn’t he read? video
4. The first grade class was having a bake sale to raise money for a field trip. The students
sold brownies, cakes, and cookies. Which thing would be too big for one person to eat?
cakes
5. Chloe bumped into another student in the hall. She dropped two pencils, a notebook,
and a pen. Which thing doesn’t she write with? notebook
6. The music store at the mall is having a big sale. You can buy CDs, tapes, posters, or
videos. What’s on sale that isn’t something you can hear? posters
7. Sam was helping his stepmom unload the shopping bags. In the first bag he saw a can
of green beans, a package of cheese, deodorant, and a bag of potatoes. Which thing
wouldn’t he put in the kitchen? deodorant
8. Our dentist always gives us rewards for being good patients. Last time we could choose
from stickers, sugarless gum, and rings. What did our dentist have that you wouldn’t
wear? sugarless gum
9. Kevin went to the grocery store to get a few things. In his cart, he put some cereal, a few
bananas, a box of tissues, and a jar of peanut butter. Which thing wouldn’t he eat?
box of tissues
10. The lights went out in our apartment during the storm. When we lost electricity, Dad was
cutting up a salad, my brother was watching TV, I was reading a book, and my dog was
chewing on a bone. Which of these activities couldn’t we do without electricity? watch TV
Exclusion
Exclusion 14
1. Ethan’s little brother is a picky eater. He only likes baloney and cheese sandwiches.
What does he eat on his sandwiches that isn’t meat? cheese
2. Jesse stayed at his grandma’s last weekend. They played a lot of games. Jesse’s
favorites were “Go Fish®” and “Duck Duck Goose.” What did they play that wasn’t a card
game? “Duck Duck Goose”
3. Yoshi is getting dressed for school. He’s wearing jeans, a watch, and a T-shirt. What is
he wearing that isn’t clothing? watch
4. We went for a long walk yesterday. We saw daisies, prairie dogs, and wild roses. What
did we see that isn’t a flower? prairie dogs
5. Mrs. Juarez is a good teacher but she gives a lot of homework. She assigns homework
on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. On which day doesn’t Mrs. Juarez assign
any homework? Tuesday
6. Jennifer went out to eat with her boyfriend. The two specials were fried chicken with
broccoli and rice and beans. If Jennifer doesn’t eat meat, which special did she order?
rice and beans
7. The Lee family went to the zoo during summer vacation. They saw monkeys, llamas,
toucans, and snakes. Which animal wouldn’t you find in a jungle? llamas
8. Ahmed won the lottery. He’s having a great time buying things for his aunt, uncle, sister,
mother, and grandma. Which one of his relatives that he’s buying things for isn’t a
woman? brother
9. Harding School is having a Career Day. Many adults from the community will be
speaking to the students about their careers. The program lists a firefighter, a paramedic,
a musician, and a police officer. Which career wouldn’t be involved in a traffic accident?
musician
10. Janie won the award at her school for the best all-around athlete. She broke the record
for the cross-country run, scored the most points for the basketball team, had the highest
batting average on the softball team, and was a key player on the soccer team. Which of
these sports did Janie participate in that doesn’t use a ball? cross-country
Exclusion
Exclusion 15
1. Mia is coloring a picture for her grandpa. The picture has several apples and lemons in
it. Which of these things aren’t red? lemons
2. Sean went to the grocery store for his mom. He bought breakfast cereal and pudding.
Which of these foods isn’t crunchy? pudding
3. The first grade class at Monroe School is collecting cans and bottles to raise money for
new computers. Which of the things they’re collecting aren’t made of glass? cans
4. Last weekend we went to my uncle’s farm. We helped feed the chickens, the pigs, and
the cows. Which of these animals don’t walk on four legs? chickens
5. Lauren needs to buy some fruit. The oranges, the bananas, and the strawberries are on
sale. Which fruit doesn’t have a peel? strawberries
6. Mr. Lopez wrote a list of words on the chalkboard. He asked his students to put the
words in alphabetical order. The words were purple, peach, apricot, and poppy. Which of
these words doesn’t start with the letter p? apricot
7. Things made of glass aren’t allowed at the community pool. Nick has a bottle of juice, a
towel, and a beach ball in his backpack. Which of these things won’t he take to the pool?
bottle of juice
8. Matt’s grandma is moving next week. He’s helping her move all the heavy things. In her
living room is a television, a sofa, and a lamp. Which of these things isn’t heavy? lamp
9. Our next door neighbor hangs his clothes on the line to dry. Yesterday he hung out his
jeans, shorts, shirts, and dress slacks. What clothing did he hang to dry that doesn’t
have legs? shirts
10. For Kim’s science project, she needs to find things that bend easily. She looked in the
junk drawer at home and found a straw, a pipe cleaner, a pair of scissors, and a silk
flower. Which of these things isn’t flexible? scissors
Exclusion
Exclusion 16
1. Sharlene wants the toy her little brother is playing with. He’s been playing with it for a
long time. What shouldn’t Sharlene do? take the toy away from her brother, hit him
2. Enrico is walking home from school alone. A man Enrico doesn’t know stops his car
beside him. The man says he’s lost. What shouldn’t Enrico do? talk to the man, get in
the man’s car
3. The fire alarm is ringing. The teacher asks her students to line up and get ready to walk
outside the building. What won’t they do? put on their coats, put their books away
4. You hear a terrible noise. You look outside and see your next door neighbor’s cat fighting
with your dog. What wouldn’t you do? watch the animals fight, try to break up the fight
5. Felicia gets dressed for school and then goes down to breakfast. While she’s drinking
her orange juice, she spills some on her shorts. As she gets up, Felicia hears the bus
honk. What wouldn’t she do? change her shorts
6. Joji is packing his bag for an overnight stay at his best friend’s apartment. He has been
looking forward to this night for a long time. Just before he’s ready to leave, his mother
calls. She’s running late and asks him to start supper. What wouldn’t Joji say to his
mother? “No! Do it yourself when you get home.”
7. Your dad and stepmom went to the movies. You’re baby-sitting your little sister while
they’re gone. Your sister falls down the stairs while you’re on the phone. What won’t you
do? keep talking on the phone
8. Hakeem is studying for a math test. He needs to get a good grade or he’ll have to take
the class over. Hakeem wants to watch a movie at 8:00 in the evening. At 6:00 his best
friend calls to invite him to a baseball game. What shouldn’t Hakeem say to his friend?
“I’d love to go; I’ll be right over!”
9. Your best friend gets caught stealing. She tells her mom that you were with her, but you
weren’t. You were baby-sitting. What wouldn’t you say to your friend? “You did the right
thing.” “I’ll cover for you.”
10. Mrs. Jackson finds out that her daughter has been smoking. Her daughter is in 8th
grade. What shouldn’t Mrs. Jackson do? tell her daughter it’s okay, buy her daughter
cigarettes
Exclusion
Exclusion 17
I’ll give you some clues. Try to guess what I’m talking about.
1. Melissa was looking for a birthday present for her friend. She bought something that her
friend didn’t have to put together. Did Melissa buy a puzzle or a doll? doll
2. Tamara is hungry, but her teeth hurt. She wants something that isn’t hard to chew.
Should she eat an apple or a bowl of soup? soup
3. Today is “Show and Tell” at school. Nathan brought something he can’t play with inside
the house. Did he bring a computer game or a bike? bike
4. Kelly is bored and doesn’t know what to do. Her dad suggests they do something they
wouldn’t need to pay for. Does Kelly’s dad suggest they go to the miniature golf course,
for a walk, or to the movies? for a walk
5. The kindergarten class drew pictures of their favorite animals from their trip to the zoo.
They didn’t draw an animal you can ride. Was their favorite animal a camel, an elephant,
or a parrot? parrot
6. School starts next Monday. You look at your supply list and notice you still need
something that you use to hold papers together that isn’t sticky. Do you need paper clips,
a calculator, or a bottle of glue? paper clips
7. In music class, the students got to choose the instrument they wanted to play. Devon
wanted to play something that he didn’t have to blow into. Did Devon choose a trumpet,
a violin, or a clarinet? violin
8. Jaime is playing inside today. Her stepdad is sleeping. She needs to play with
something that doesn’t make a noise. Should she play with her toy piano, CD player,
stuffed bear, or train set? stuffed bear
9. Your brother is helping make muffins for breakfast. He needs something that you don’t
put food inside. Does he need a bowl, a measuring spoon, a recipe, or a muffin pan?
recipe
10. Franklin is going out for sports this year. He wants a sport that won’t require him to run.
Will he go out for track, swimming, football, or soccer? swimming
Exclusion
Exclusion 18
1. Amy is getting dressed for school. She’s looking for something to wear that isn’t clothing.
Could she be looking for her watch or her socks? watch
2. It’s Father’s Day and George is wrapping his dad’s present. When his sister asks George
what it is, he tells her it’s not a tool. Do you think George bought his dad a wrench or a
tie? tie
3. Mr. and Mrs. Keane are going to have a baby girl. They’re trying to think of names that
aren’t boys’ names. Which of these names would be a good name for their baby?
Rachel, Brendan, or Justin? Rachel
4. Tanner fell off his bike yesterday. He scratched something but it wasn’t a body part. Did
Tanner scratch his knee, his elbow, or his handlebar? handlebar
5. Mr. Truman is planning a birthday party for Jason and his friends. Jason wants to play
games, but no running games. Should they play “Musical Chairs,” “Tag,” or “Hide and
Seek?” “Musical Chairs”
6. Ellen’s grandmother works at a greenhouse. She brought something home that wasn’t a
plant. Did Ellen’s grandmother bring home a rose bush, potting soil, or a lilac?
potting soil
7. Jumbo Sports is having a sale on some of their merchandise. Their ad says,

“Everything’s on sale that isn’t football equipment.” Which of these things is on sale:
football, tennis shoes, shoulder pads, or a helmet? tennis shoes
8. Dance More is a club for adults who like to dance. Only adults are allowed on the dance
floor. Anyone who isn’t an adult can play in the playroom. Which of these might you see
in the playroom: a grandma, a teacher, a mechanic, or a child? child
9. Paco came home from work early. When he unlocked the door to his apartment, he
noticed something that wasn’t a sound. Did he notice a phone ringing, someone
sneezing, a bad odor, or a baby crying? bad odor
10. Career Day is next Tuesday at McKinley Middle School. When the secretary was
checking the list of topics, she saw a topic that wasn’t a job. Which one did she see:
salesperson, speller, mechanic, or cashier? speller
Exclusion
Exclusion 19
1. Kareem’s mom took him to a store. She bought him something to wear, but it didn’t have
sleeves or legs. Did she buy him a pair of jeans or shoes? shoes
2. Casey’s teacher told the students in her class to bring in things that weren’t hard. Casey
found a rock and a tissue at home. Which thing should she choose? tissue
3. Eva likes foods that aren’t soft. Her mother asked her if she wanted a banana or popcorn
for a snack. Which one will Eva choose? popcorn
4. Jared is choosing a name for his club. He wants a name that isn’t long. Should he
choose The Fantastic Friends’ Club or The Cool Club?
5. The Warner family rented the apartment next door. As they were moving in, Mrs. Warner
found a mouse in one of the rooms that doesn’t have a sink. Did she find a mouse in the
living room, the kitchen, or the bathroom? living room
6. The Garcia family is trying to decide where to go on vacation. They want to go

somewhere that isn’t hot. Should they choose Florida, Alaska, or Mexico? Alaska
7. Sabrena’s family is going to have a picnic. It’s very hot outside so they’re packing foods
that won’t melt. Which of these things should they leave home: ice cream, ham
sandwiches, carrot sticks, peaches? ice cream
8. The pet store is having a special sale on pets that don’t have fur. If you want a pet for a
good price, would you buy a guinea pig, a cat, a frog, or a collie? frog
9. Dr. Jimenez is examining a patient. He’s using something that doesn’t have numbers. Is
he using a blood pressure cuff, a stethoscope, a scale, or a watch? stethoscope
10. The weather forecaster gave a lively report on the news last night. She told all about a
kind of weather that isn’t wet. Was she talking about snow, a thunderstorm, sleet, or a
tornado? tornado
Exclusion
Exclusion 20
1. Andrew is always getting into trouble. Today his baby-sitter found him outside. He was
playing with an animal that isn’t a pet. What do you suppose he could have been playing
with? squirrel, raccoon, chipmunk
2. Our hamster got out of his cage last night. We looked all over for him. Finally we found
him in one of the small rooms in our apartment, but it wasn’t a bedroom. Where do you
think we found him? bathroom, kitchen
3. Nick was helping his dad fix his motorcycle. His dad asked for a tool that has a handle
but isn’t sharp. What tool did Nick bring him? wrench, hammer, pliers
4. Tameeka is studying for a test. Her test is tomorrow in a subject that doesn’t teach about
numbers, weather, or wars. What subject might she be studying for? spelling, reading,
English
5. My younger brother is learning to tell time. He knows how to tell time with a watch that
doesn’t have hands. What kind of watch does he use to tell time? digital
6. Doctors usually recommend that people eat a balanced, healthy diet. If foods that aren’t
high in fat are healthy for you, what are some foods you should eat? fruits, vegetables,
grains
7. When I was washing dishes last night, I dropped a bowl. It wasn’t made of glass so it
didn’t break. If the dish wasn’t glass, what other material could it be? plastic, metal,
wood
8. Sophia always helps clean the apartment on Saturdays. Her job is to dust the furniture,
but not dust anything electrical. What furniture do you think Sophia dusts? dresser,
table, entertainment center
9. We do several projects each year in art class. We learn how to use different materials for
each project. For our next one, we can use anything to draw with that doesn’t use ink.
What things do you think we’ll be drawing with? chalk, charcoal, pencils
10. We went to the movies last weekend. We saw a movie that wasn’t a romance, a western,
or an adventure. What other kind of movie do you think we watched? comedy, mystery,
drama
Exclusion
Details 1-3
Details 1
Listen to this story about an alien named Weka. Then color your picture to look like Weka.
Greetings! My name is Weka. I live on a faraway planet. I came to Earth to look for
a friend.
I have green skin and beautiful purple hair. I wear a yellow space suit. My gloves and
boots are black.
Would you be my friend?
Details 2
Listen as I tell you about this picture. Then follow my directions.
Keesha is getting ready for bed. She uses the washcloth and soap to wash her face.
Then she puts toothpaste on her toothbrush and brushes her teeth.
Circle the two things Keesha used first. circle washcloth and soap
Draw squares around the two things Keesha used second. square around toothpaste
and toothbrush
Put an X through the things Keesha didn’t use at all. X on comb and brush
Details 3
Listen as I describe this picture. Circle each thing I describe wrong.
Ellie is holding a pot filled with flowers. circle pot
Nick is waving a flag. His shirt has the number 8 on it. circle 7
Mrs. Voss is wearing glasses. She is holding a book. circle Mrs. Voss’s eyes
Zach is carrying a basket of oranges. circle basket of apples
Maria is holding a box of paints. She has blond hair. circle Maria’s hair
Details
Details 1, continued Name __________________________
Details

172
Details

173
Details
Details 4
Teacher note: The actions you should do are listed in italics on the right. Do these actions as
you read the actions listed on the left to your students.
Let’s play a game. Listen carefully. Then do what I say, NOT what I do.
1. Touch your toes. Touch your nose.
2. Spin around. Sit down.
3. Shake your head “no.” Shake your head “yes.”
4. Hop on one foot. Hop on two feet.
5. Sit down on the floor. Stand on your tiptoes.
6. Touch one of your knees. Touch one of your elbows.
7. Put your hands on your hips. Put your hands on your head.
8. Hop up and down. Stand still.
9. Cover your eyes. Cover your ears.
10. March in place. March around the room.
11. Stamp your feet. Clap your hands.
12. Put your arms above your head Put your arms out to your sides
and stretch. and stretch.
13. Wave to me. Snap your fingers.
14. Point to the chalkboard. Point to the floor.
15. Hold up two fingers. Hold up three fingers.
16. Touch your ear with your thumb. Touch your mouth with your thumb.
17. Pretend to brush your teeth. Pretend to brush your hair.
18. Shake hands with someone next to you. Shake your hands.
Details
Details 5-7
Details 5
Listen to these rhymes. Then draw a circle around the person I’m describing.
1. Wanda grabs a ball from her locker

And heads outside to play some soccer.
Draw a circle around Wanda.
2. Jon can’t believe his favorite shirt

Is wet and wrinkled and covered with dirt.
Draw a circle around Jon.
3. When Ms. Min said, “Ready - set - start!”

Alex took off in a shopping cart.
Draw a circle around Alex.
Details 6
Listen as I read each group of words. Then put an X on the picture I don’t name.
1. banana, apple, orange X on grapes

2. doll, ball, blocks X on truck
3. paper, eraser, pencil X on crayon
4. hat, scarf, coat X on mittens
5. puppy, kitten, bunny X on chick
6. eye, mouth, ear X on nose
Details 7
Listen carefully and circle the picture that matches the clues.
Row 1: This is a cat. It’s wild. It has a mane. circle lion

Row 2: This is a fruit. It comes in bunches. It’s yellow and has a peel. circle bananas
Row 3: This holds clothes. You can shut it. You would use this when you go on a trip.
circle suitcase
Row 4: This is a letter. It’s a vowel. It’s the first letter of the alphabet. circle A
Row 5: This is an insect. It flies. It has beautifully colored wings. circle butterfly
Row 6: This holds liquids. It’s recyclable. It’s made of plastic. circle gallon milk container
Details
Circle each person your teacher describes.
1 2 3
176
Details
Put an X on each picture your teacher does not name.
1 2
3 4
5 6
Details
Details 7 Name __________________________
Listen carefully to the clues. Circle the picture that matches the clues.
Details
Details 8
Listen to these clues and tell me the story I’m talking about.
1. a house made of straw

a house made of sticks Story: The Three Little Pigs
a house made of bricks
2. a prince
two wicked stepsisters Story: Cinderella
a glass slipper
3. a princess
a poisoned apple Story: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
seven dwarfs
4. ruby slippers
yellow brick road Story: The Wizard of Oz
Munchkins
5. a wooden puppet
a nose that grows when you lie Story: Pinocchio
a real boy
6. pirates
The Lost Boys Story: Peter Pan
Never-Never Land
7. a blond-haired girl
three bears Story: Goldilocks and the Three Bears
porridge that’s just right
8. a wicked witch
a spinning wheel Story: Sleeping Beauty
a sleeping princess
9. magic beans
a goose that lays golden eggs Story: Jack and the Beanstalk
a harp that sings
10. a white rabbit

the Cheshire Cat Story: Alice in Wonderland
TweedleDee and TweedleDum
Details
Details 9
Listen carefully to what I say. Then answer my questions.
1. I had a terrible day today.

What kind of day did I have today? terrible
2. I forgot to set my alarm so I was late getting up.

Why was I late getting up? You forgot to set your alarm.
3. I got toothpaste on my favorite shirt.

What did I get on my favorite shirt? toothpaste
4. My brother ate the last of my favorite cereal.

Who ate the last of my favorite cereal? your brother
5. As I walked to school, it started to rain.

When did it start to rain? as you walked to school
6. I slipped and fell in a big puddle. I was soaked.

Why was I soaked? because you fell in a big puddle
7. When I got to school, I remembered that I left my homework on the kitchen table.
Where did I leave my homework? on the kitchen table
8. I got two late slips — one in math and one in reading.

How many late slips did I get? two
10. My class was supposed to go on a field trip, but it was cancelled because of the rain.
Why was our field trip cancelled? because of the rain
11. The class gerbil bit me when I tried to clean its cage.
What bit me? the class gerbil
12. I started to cough and sneeze after lunch.

What did I do after lunch? started to cough and sneeze
13. By the time I got home from school, I was really sick.
How did I feel when I got home from school? really sick
14. My dad said I should stay home from school tomorrow.

What did my dad say? You should stay home from school tomorrow.
15. I think tomorrow’s going to be a much better day!

What do I think tomorrow will be? a much better day
Details
Details 10
Teacher note: Numbers behind sentences indicate correct sentence order. To increase the
difficulty of this task, ask students to repeat the incorrect stories back to you in the right order.
Listen to these short stories. Tell me if you think they’re in the right order.
1. Jake put on his shoes. 2

Then he put on his socks. 1
2. Kelly sneezed. 1
Then she blew her nose. 2
3. Alex took some library books home. 2

Then he gave the librarian his library card. 1
4. I filled the tub with water. 1

Then I took a bath. 2
5. Tim dried his clothes in the dryer. 2

Then he put them in the washing machine. 1
6. Jenna ate a hamburger. 2

Then she put ketchup and mustard on it. 1
7. Chris put a stamp on the envelope. 1

Then she put the envelope in the mailbox. 2
8. Spencer had a cavity filled. 2

Then he went to the dentist. 1
9. The school’s fire alarm went off. 1

Next the teachers and students left the building. 2
Then the firefighters came and put out the fire. 3
10. Jeff smiled. 2

Then Karen took his picture. 3
Karen put film in the camera. 1
11. Maria answered the telephone. 3

I dialed Maria’s number. 1
Then the phone rang. 2
12. Paul cut his finger. 1

Next he put a bandage on it. 3
Then he washed the cut and put medicine on it. 2
Details
Details 11
Listen to each clue and tell me what I’m describing.
1. This is the color of a lime or a dollar bill. green
2. This is the part of your body where you’d find your eyes, ears, and nose. head, face
3. This is the number of inches in a foot. twelve
4. This month follows September. October
5. An angry dog makes this sound. growl
6. This is what you have when you cough and sneeze. cold, allergies
7. This is the number of minutes in an hour. sixty
8. This is what you do with a needle and thread. sew
9. This color on a stoplight means “caution.” yellow
10. This person takes your order at a restaurant. waitress, waiter
11. This shape has three sides. triangle
12. This smelly animal is black with a white stripe down its back. skunk
13. You wear this jewelry on your finger. ring
14. This part of your body helps you think. brain
15. This is frozen water. ice
16. This is the name of the planet we live on. Earth
17. This vehicle races sick people to the hospital. ambulance
18. This piece of silverware goes with a fork and spoon. knife
19. You need a pitcher and a batter to play this sport. baseball
20. You go trick or treating on this day. Halloween
Details
Details 12
Listen to these short paragraphs. Then answer my questions.
1. Neal’s hands were shaking. He took some slow, deep breaths and tried to ignore the
butterflies in his stomach.
How does Neal feel? nervous
How do you know? See underlined words.
2. Stacy held her arms out at her sides and whirled around and around. When she stopped
the room seemed to be spinning.
How does Stacy feel? dizzy
3. Luis yawned and stretched his arms above his head. He rubbed his eyes and tried to
concentrate on his homework.
How does Luis feel? tired
4. Jennifer held her head high and smiled at the cheering crowd. She felt her heart swell
as the judge placed the gold medal around her neck and the band began to play her
national anthem.
How does Jennifer feel? proud
5. Yolanda’s eyes blazed as she clenched and unclenched her hands. She slammed the
door behind her and stomped down the stairs.
How does Yolanda feel? angry
6. Hiroshi’s hands trembled as he turned the doorknob of the old, deserted house. His
heart was pounding so hard, it felt like it might pop out of his chest. As the door swung
open, Hiroshi’s eyes grew wide and he started to breathe in short, little gasps.
How does Hiroshi feel? frightened
7. Luisa’s face was bright red. She’d been daydreaming again. The teacher was standing
right next to her and all her classmates were laughing. Luisa felt like crawling under her
desk to hide.
How does Luisa feel? embarrassed
8. Sergei sighed and slumped down in his chair. He looked at the clock again. The hands
had barely moved, but Sergei felt like he’d been waiting forever. He wished he’d brought
a book to read to help pass the time.
How does Sergei feel? bored
Details
Details 13
Listen to the clues in these short stories. Then answer my questions.
1. The bell rang. As the teacher dismissed her class, she said, “Remember — you have a
math test tomorrow.”
What is the setting? classroom/school
2. The waitress led Ali and Mike to an empty table. “I’m starving!” said Ali as the waitress
handed her a menu.
Where are Ali and Mike? restaurant
3. The knight crept across the drawbridge and pushed the heavy wooden door open slowly.
He was careful not to let his armor clank against the stone walls. If he was discovered,
he would be thrown in the dungeon.
What is the setting? castle
4. Kanesha found her seat and fastened her seat belt. As they taxied down the runway, she
listened closely to the emergency instructions the flight attendant was giving the
passengers.
Where is Kanesha? airplane
5. The paramedics quickly pulled the stretcher holding the injured man out of the
ambulance. They raced through the emergency entrance. A doctor met them just inside
the door. She took one look at the injured man and said, “We have to get this man to an
operating room!”
What is the setting? hospital
6. Ryan followed the guide through the huge building. He was amazed at all the different
things on display. Over his head an old airplane hung from the ceiling. When they
entered the next room, Ryan found himself in the middle of a huge dinosaur exhibit.
Where is Ryan? museum
7. Wes checked his shopping list again. He pushed his cart down the last aisle and
searched the shelves. No luck. “Excuse me,” Wes said to a clerk. “Can you help me find
the sardines?”
Where is Wes? grocery store
Details
Details 14
Listen to how these kids spend their free time. Then answer the questions.
1. Lisa spends her free time taking care of other people’s children. She likes to baby-sit
because she loves children and she likes to make money. During the summer, she
watches the Bobbsey twins. She stays with them every Monday through Friday from 9:00
until 4:00. By the end of the summer, Lisa will have made $800.
• Why does Lisa like to take care of children? loves children, likes to make money
• Who does Lisa baby-sit in the summer? the Bobbsey twins
• What is her work schedule? Monday-Friday, 9:00-4:00
• How much will Lisa make by the end of the summer? $800
2. Although Greg is just 10-years-old, he’s already a very good mechanic. He has helped his
uncle fix things since he was four. They have fixed lawn mowers, motorcycles, cars, and
trucks. They’ve even fixed a refrigerator. But the thing Greg liked fixing the best was a
television. He got to keep it once he got it working!
• What is Greg good at? mechanics

• What things have he and his uncle fixed? lawn mowers, motorcycles, cars,
trucks, refrigerator
• What was Greg’s favorite thing to fix? Why? television, because he got to keep it
3. Faith loves to go in-line skating. This is a very difficult activity for Faith because she has
just one leg. To in-line skate, she wears a skate on her right foot and pushes herself along
with a rubber-tipped pole. Her biggest challenge is keeping her balance.
• What is Faith’s favorite activity? in-line skating

• Why is this activity difficult for her? she has one leg
• How does Faith in-line skate? skate on right foot, pushes herself along with
rubber-tipped pole
• What is her biggest challenge? keeping her balance
4. Adam’s favorite activities are singing and acting. He has auditioned for parts in several
musicals. Last year he was chosen to play the role of Winthrop in the Music Man. Adam
had to rehearse his part every night for several months. It took most of his free time, but
he didn’t care. Adam wants to be in a musical on Broadway some day!
• What are Adam’s favorite activities? singing and acting

• What part was Adam chosen for? Winthrop in Music Man
• How often did he have to rehearse? every night for several months
• What does Adam want to do some day? be in a Broadway musical
Details
Details 15
Listen carefully to what I say. Then answer my questions.
1. Marta’s favorite months are December and July.

• Which summer month does Marta like best? July
2. Each week, Hannah has soccer practice on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
• How many days a week does Hannah have soccer practice? three
3. I gave the cafeteria worker two dimes for a carton of milk.

• How much did the milk cost? 20 cents
4. Today for lunch I ate a turkey sandwich, some pretzels, and a can of apple juice.
• What did I recycle? a can
5. Brooke puts on her suit and some sandals. Then she grabs a towel, some sunscreen,
and a pair of goggles.
• What is Brooke going to do? go swimming
6. Jason wanted to go jogging, play some baseball, and watch a movie today. But, it’s
thunderstorming and he can’t do everything he planned.
• What thing can Jason still do? watch a movie
7. On Monday I ate an apple for a snack. I ate popcorn for a snack on Tuesday.
• When did I eat fruit for a snack? Monday
8. Nate is going to bake some cookies. He needs flour, butter, eggs, and sugar.
• Which ingredients would Nate find in the refrigerator? butter, eggs
9. Trae used crayons, scissors, glue, and construction paper in art class today.
• Which art supply made Trae’s hands sticky? glue
• Which art supply did Trae use to cut the construction paper? scissors
10. Mr. Witt ran some errands today. He went to the post office, the bank, and the library.
• Where did Mr. Witt go to mail a package? post office
• Where did he pay a fine for overdue books? library
Details
Details 16
Teacher note: Give your students a copy of the map on page 189. Then ask them to listen to
the following story and answer the questions. The map actually has nothing to do with the
story; it’s purpose is to serve as a distraction.
Blackbeard was one of the most famous British pirates of all time. The people called
him Blackbeard because he braided his long, black beard and tied ribbons on the braids.
• What country was Blackbeard from? Great Britain

• How did Blackbeard get his name? his long, black beard
Blackbeard looked and acted very fierce. He loved to make trouble and start fights.
Sometimes he stirred things up by setting off explosions on his own ship. Many times
he entertained himself by inviting friends to his cabin for a meal and then firing his
pistols at them beneath the table.
• How did Blackbeard look and act? very fierce

• What did he do to stir things up? set off explosions
• How did he entertain himself? inviting friends to eat with him and firing his pistols
at them
In 1717 and 1718 Blackbeard terrorized the Carolina and Virginia coasts. He captured
ships and held their passengers for ransom. Sometimes he demanded money, but often
he asked for chests of medicine. His crew was frequently sick or wounded, and so,
medicine was needed more than money. Once the ransoms were paid, Blackbeard
sailed away only to find other ships to raid.
• Why did Blackbeard take prisoners? for ransom

• What did he demand for ransom? money, medicine
• Why did he want medicine instead of money? his crew was frequently sick or
wounded
• What did Blackbeard do after the ransoms were paid? sailed away and found
other ships to raid
Because Blackbeard stole so much of their property, the Carolina and Virginia plantation
owners banded together to capture him. He was caught on November 21, 1718.
Blackbeard fought desperately with his sword and pistols but he finally fell with 25
wounds in his body.
• Who banded together to catch Blackbeard? Carolina and Virginia plantation

owners
• How did Blackbeard die? from 25 wounds
Details
Details 17
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of page 189. Feel free to use your best pirate’s
voice as you read these directions!
Look at your map of Eagle Island while you listen to these messages from famous pirates.
Find the spots on your map that the pirates describe. Then follow their directions.
1. Long John Silver here. I buried a treasure chest filled with gold coins at the spot where
Soaring Lake and Hunter River meet. Find this spot on your map and circle it in red.
2. My name’s Mary Read. I buried my treasure on the east side of Pirate’s Lagoon. Find this
spot and put a red square around it.
3. I’m the ferocious pirate, Blackbeard. I buried me booty on a small island just south of
Carrion Strait. Find this spot and circle it in blue. But, don’t touch me treasure or I’ll make
you walk the plank!
4. Shiver me timbers! My name’s William, but you can call me Captain Kidd. I buried my
treasure on the south side of Baldwood Forest. Find this spot and circle it in purple.
5. Land ahoy! I spy the northern-most tip of Eagle Island. That’s the spot where I, Calico
Jack, buried me treasure. Find this spot on your map and put a blue square around it.
6. My name’s Ali Pasha. I stashed my treasure at the foot of Buzzard Peak. Find this spot
on your map and put a purple triangle around it.
7. Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me. I’m Anne Bonny. I buried a chest filled with jewels near
the capital city of Eagle Island. Find this spot on your map and put a green triangle
around it.
8. Dragut’s me name. I buried me treasure at the southern-most tip of Trapper Point. Find
this spot and put a green square around it.
Details
Look at this map. Listen carefully and follow the directions.

189
Details
Main Idea 1-2
Main Idea 1
Telling the main idea about something means you listen to everything and tell the one most
important thing about what you heard. Let’s try some.
1. It’s recess time at Hoover School for the 4th graders. Some kids are playing basketball,
some are playing catch, and some are sitting around talking.
Main Idea: The 4th graders are having recess.
2. It’s the community talent show in La Habre, California. This group is “ The Spotlights”
and they perform by singing, dancing, and playing several different instruments.
Main Idea: The Spotlights dance, sing, and play instruments.
3. There are so many fun things to do this year at the County Fair! We can watch a puppet
show, play Frisbee®, enter the rope-jumping contest, and eat lots of treats.
Main Idea: The fair has lots of fun things to do.
4. This farm has more animals than a zoo! Actually, what you can’t see is all the corn
growing out in the fields. That’s the farmer’s main crop.
Main Idea: The farmer grows corn and has lots of animals.
Main Idea 2
Telling the main idea about something means you listen to everything and tell the one most
important thing about what you heard. Let’s try some.
1. This is Delila Rose who is a singer in a jazz band. She is 20 years old now, but she’s
been singing since she was four.
Main Idea: She’s a jazz singer.
2. Max Morgan teaches third grade. His favorite subject to teach is math although he
coaches basketball, too.
Main Idea: He’s a third grade teacher.
3. Wanda’s favorite people to work with are children. However, she cuts and styles hair for
adult men and women, too. Wanda learned to be a hairdresser by going to school.
Main Idea: She’s a hairdresser.
4. Animals need doctors, too! That’s why we have veterinarians, or vets for short. These
doctors treat all kinds of animals, from zoo animals to our household pets.
Main Idea: Vets are animal doctors.
5. Vicki is a plumber who especially likes doing repairs in old buildings. She fixes or
replaces old sink and toilet pipes and drains.
Main Idea: Plumbers fix drains and pipes.
6. Without farmers, we wouldn’t have much food to eat! That’s right — farmers raise just
about everything we eat, from hamburger to zucchini.
Main Idea: Farmers raise the food we eat.
Main Idea
Main Idea 1, continued Name __________________________
Look at each picture and listen carefully to what your teacher says. Then tell the most important part of each passage you
hear.
1 2
191
3 4
Main Idea
Main Idea 2, continued Name __________________________
Look at each picture and listen carefully to what your teacher says. Then tell the most important part of each passage
you hear.
1 2 3
192
4 5 6
Main Idea
Main Idea 3
Tell me the main idea for each group of words I say.
1. football, baseball, soccer, basketball.

Main Idea: balls to play sports with
2. Venus, Mars, Pluto, Jupiter

Main Idea: planets
3. liver, onions, skunk, dirty socks

Main Idea: things that smell bad
4. title, theme, characters, plot

Main Idea: parts of a story
5. front page, sports section, want-ads, comics

Main Idea: parts of a newspaper
6. fullback, halfback, center, guard

Main Idea: football player positions
7. movie, TV program, concert, video

Main Idea: things to watch
8. Tigger, Wizard of Oz, Pinocchio, The Three Bears

Main Idea: storybook (fictional) characters
9. shark, octopus, stingray, whale

Main Idea: sea animals
10. door, window, book, box

Main Idea: things you can open and close
11. lawyer, plumber, electrician, chef

Main Idea: occupations (jobs, careers)
12. Mrs., Mr., Ms., Sir

Main Idea: titles
13. Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota

Main Idea: states (midwestern states)
14. scuba dive, swim, canoe, ski

Main Idea: things you can do in the water
Main Idea
Main Idea 4
Details are pieces of information that tell about the main idea. Listen to these details and tell
me the main idea.
1. vanilla, chocolate, pumpkin, strawberry

Main Idea: flavors, pies, yogurt
2. bee, moth, mosquito, ladybug

Main Idea: small insects
3. hit, kick, catch, throw

Main Idea: verbs, actions
4. field trip to a museum, visit to a zoo, day at an amusement park, bike riding
Main Idea: interesting/fun things to do
5. hearing, sight, taste, touch

Main Idea: senses
6. mouse, monitor, software, CD-ROM

Main Idea: words related to computers
7. 911, ambulance, emergency room, fire truck

Main Idea: things related to an emergency
8. Popsicle®, ice-cream cone, pudding, taffy apple

Main Idea: things to eat that are sweet
9. The White House, The Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon
Main Idea: famous/historical places to visit in the U.S.A.
10. type, knit, clap, snap

Main Idea: things you do with your fingers (hands)
11. dictionary, thesaurus, encyclopedia, telephone directory

Main Idea: books for finding information
12. lens, film, tripod, snapshot

Main Idea: words related to cameras
13. abacus, calculator, computer, cash register

Main Idea: things to do number problems on
14. E-mail, telephone, fax, letter

Main Idea: ways to communicate with others
Main Idea
Main Idea 5
Remember, the main idea is the most important part. Tell the most important part of each
message I read.
Message 1: Our class is going on a field trip. You need to bring a note from your parents
that says you can go. If you forget to bring the note by Friday, you won’t be able to go and
you’ll have to sit in the library all day.
Main Idea: Bring a note from my parents to go on the field trip.
Message 2: Although you didn’t have any homework last night, you’ll have math homework
tonight. I’ll assign you the pages to do before the end of school and collect your homework
first thing tomorrow morning.
Main Idea: I’ll have math homework tonight.
Message 3: Your stepmom called the school secretary. You left your lunch at home. The
secretary said you could borrow money from her until tomorrow to eat hot lunch today.
Main Idea: Borrow money from the school secretary to eat hot lunch today.
Message 4: Our class will have a party on Friday to celebrate finishing our book-selling
contest. Please bring treats. There are 15 students in our class.
Main Idea: Bring treats for 15 people on Friday.
Message 5: Dad got a flat tire on the way to the grocery store. He was going there to pick
up some diapers and formula for the baby. He needs Mom to pick him up at Midland Foods
right away.
Main Idea: Mom needs to pick up Dad at Midland Foods right away.
Message 6: This is United Way week. Every student who brings a quarter to give to United
Way will help people in need. If every student gives at least 25 cents, we’ll celebrate by
having 15 extra minutes of recess next Monday.
Main Idea: Bring 25 cents next Monday for United Way.
Message 7: Parent-teacher-student conferences are a good way to improve your

communication with your teacher. So bring your parents to school next Thursday night
between 5:00 and 7:00 to visit with your teacher. Refreshments will be served.
Main Idea: Parent-teacher-student conferences are next Thursday between 5:00 and 7:00.
Main Idea
Main Idea 6
Every paragraph of a story has a main idea. Let’s see if you can find the main idea in each
paragraph I read.
All About Race Cars
Race cars are super fast! These cool machines can go up to 200 miles per hour.
Main Idea: Race cars are fast.
It takes a good driver to win a race. The driver practices driving the race car safely at
high speeds.
Main Idea: Race car drivers must drive well at high speeds.
Fire! Fire!
Last night there was a fire in our apartment building. The smoke alarms didn’t go off
because the batteries were dead. Luckily, no one was hurt.
Main Idea: There was a fire in our apartment building last night, but no one
was hurt.
Investigators arrived at the scene of the fire about 1:00 a.m.. Results of the
investigation showed that Mr. Yenson, in apartment 13, left his iron plugged in and
turned on. That’s what started the fire.
Main Idea: An iron that was left plugged in started the fire.
Dear Journal
Writing in a journal or diary is like writing your autobiography. You can keep track of
things that happened or things you thought about so that later you can remember.
Main Idea: Keeping a journal or diary is like writing your autobiography.
Entries in a journal are in calendar order so you know what happened on a certain day.
Sometimes it’s interesting to go back to read how you have changed or what you
thought about when you were younger.
Main Idea: It’s interesting to look back at past journal entries.
Main Idea
Main Idea 7
Here are some interesting facts. Tell me the main idea about each one.
1. People don’t get goose bumps on their faces, but other animals do. This is because
humans don’t have fur or much hair on their faces. The muscles attached to the hair pull
together in the cold and cause goose bumps!
Main Idea: People don’t get goose bumps on their faces.
2. Have you ever wondered why dogs walk around in circles before lying down? The
answer isn’t known for sure. Some dog experts believe it was a way for wild dogs to pack
down any branches, leaves, or rocks before getting comfortable. Others believe it is a
way for dogs to mark their territory with their scent.
Main Idea: People aren’t sure why dogs walk around in circles before lying down.
3. Who put the hole in the donut? A sea captain named Hanson Gregory, that’s who! While
eating a fried cake one stormy night at sea, Captain Gregory needed BOTH hands at the
helm of his ship. He rammed the cake over one of the spokes of the helm, and from then
on he asked the baker aboard the ship to make donuts with holes in them.
Main Idea: A sea captain named Captain Gregory invented the donut.
4. Do you know who the most famous groundhog is? Legend says it’s Punxsutawney Phil.
Each year on February 2nd, Phil comes out of his burrow to check the weather. If he
doesn’t see his shadow, it means that spring is just around the corner. But if he sees his
shadow, he goes back into his burrow because that means there’s six more weeks of
winter!
Main Idea: Legend says that Punxsutawney Phil can predict how long winter will last.
5. In December, 1997, the first living septuplets were born. These seven babies, four boys
and three girls, were born in Des Moines, Iowa, to Mr. and Mrs. McCaughey. The entire
community helped the family by donating diapers, a van big enough to hold the whole
family, and several cribs. The babies’ parents say they are tired but happy. “I never knew
we could be so busy,” said the young mother.
Main Idea: Having one baby can really change your life, but imagine having seven
at once!
Main Idea
Main Idea 8
Here are some interesting facts. Tell me the main idea about each one.
1. Sailors have always worn bell-bottom pants. No one knows why for sure, but it seems to
make sailors’ lives easier. Bell-bottoms are easy to get on over boots, they roll up easily
so they don’t get wet, and if a sailor falls overboard, he can quickly take off his boots so
he won’t drown!
Main Idea: Sailors have good reasons for wearing bell-bottom pants.
2. Many people think that girls’ bikes are built differently from boys’ bikes to make it easier to
get on and off them. This isn’t true! The crossbar on a boy’s bike is straight across to
make it stronger because boys and men usually weigh more than girls and women.
Main Idea: Boys’ bikes are built with a crossbar to make them stronger.
3. Have you always thought that snakes stick out their tongues because they’re ready to
bite? Well, snakes don’t use their tongues as weapons. Instead, snakes use their
tongues to find food, to feel their way along the ground, and to sense the vibrations of
bigger animals.
Main Idea: Snakes use their tongues to sense where things are.
4. You can laugh your way to good health! Scientists have found that laughter releases an
important chemical in your body that causes you to feel better than you did before you
laughed. Some people with serious illnesses, like cancer, have watched comedies,
listened to jokes, and read funny books instead of taking medicine, and have been cured!
Main Idea: Laughter is healthy for you; it can make you feel better.
5. Have you ever had unsweetened chocolate? If not, don’t try it plain! It doesn’t taste
sweet like a candy bar. Instead, it has a very bitter taste. That’s why you might be
surprised at foods that contain unsweetened chocolate . . . things like gravy, bread, and
spice mixes.
Main Idea: Chocolate doesn’t always taste sweet.
Main Idea
Main Idea 9
Listen while I read some paragraphs. After each one I’ll stop and ask you about the main
idea and one detail.
Swimming — A Healthy Sport
Swimming is a great way to exercise. Your heart and lungs work hard when you swim.
Your leg and arm muscles get a lot of exercise, too. Swimming is a fun way to keep
healthy and strong.
Main Idea: Swimming is good for you.

Detail: Swimming makes your heart work hard.
It’s a good idea to swim where a lifeguard is watching. A lifeguard is trained to perform
many rescue techniques and to administer first aid should you have any problems while
swimming.
Main idea: Swim where there’s a lifeguard.

Detail: Lifeguards are trained to perform rescue techniques and administer first aid.
If You Think You’re Thoughtless, Think Again
Even before you were born, you were using your brain to think. You heard voices and
music, you felt with your skin, and you changed positions when you were uncomfortable.
Main Idea: You were thinking before you were born.

Detail: You could hear voices.
After you were born, and as you grew, you learned to talk and walk. Both of those things
need super brain power! If you didn’t think, you wouldn’t be able to climb stairs or say
your ABCs.
Main idea: Your brain keeps working after you’re born.

Detail: Thinking helps you talk/walk.
Now that you’re older, you’re using your brain to solve problems. You can solve little
problems, like when to sharpen your pencil. You can solve big problems, like how to win
a computer game.
Main Idea: Your brain helps you solve problems.

Detail: You can solve little or big problems.
Main Idea
Main Idea 10
I’ll read you some newspaper advertisements. You tell me the main idea and some details of
each.
1. Top and Bottoms, a new store at the mall, is having a Grand Opening Sale! Everything
in the store is at least 50% off the original price. Store hours are 10:00-9:00 Monday
through Friday.
Main Idea: Tops and Bottoms is having a Grand Opening Sale.

Detail: The discount is at least 50% off.
Detail: The store is open 10:00-9:00, Monday-Friday.
2. Need a loan? Can’t pay your bills? Need cash fast? Call 1-800-555-CASH for a quick,
convenient loan that’s easy to get. You’ll have an answer five minutes after calling!
Main Idea: You can get a loan.

Detail: The phone number is 1-800-555-CASH.
Detail: You’ll know the answer in five minutes.
3. Veronica’s Muffler Boutique has two locations. They specialize in muffler installation on
all car and truck makes and models. No appointment is necessary.
Main Idea: You can get any muffler you need at Veronica’s Muffler Boutique.
Detail: There are two locations.
Detail: You don’t need an appointment.
4. Get in shape at Rockport Life Center! Use the indoor track and tennis courts or join an
aerobics class. Try our new weight room, too. And remember, child care is available
from 9:00 a.m. until noon.
Main Idea: Rockport Life Center will help you get in shape.
Detail: You can walk, run, play tennis, do aerobics or lift weights.
Detail: Child care is available.
5. Come see the Festival of Trees! It begins Thanksgiving Day and is over the day after
Christmas. You’ll see trees decorated from around the world and hear music from the
Festival of Trees Orchestra. Bring the entire family. Admission is free.
Main Idea: Visit the Festival of Trees.

Detail: It’s open from Thanksgiving Day until the day after Christmas.
Detail: The trees are decorated from different countries.
Detail: The Festival of Trees Orchestra will be playing.
Main Idea
Main Idea 11
Listen to this newspaper article and answer some questions.
Technology Saves Life
• What do you think this article is about? Why? Answers will vary.
The West Liberty Police Department has installed a new computer system to help senior
citizens and people with disabilities who live alone. Every day, the computer automatically
calls each designated home. If no one answers or if the resident pushes a special button
on the phone, the computer sounds an alarm at the police station.
• What is the main idea of this article? There’s a new emergency computer system
that helps seniors and the disabled.
• What detail do you know about the special phones? There’s a button to press in
an emergency.
• What detail do you know about the alarm? The computer sounds the alarm at the
police station.
• What detail do you know about how often the computer calls each home? It calls
every day.
Backed by local doctors and social service agencies, this service has already saved
hundreds of lives across the country. Seventy-year-old Mary Wilson is one example.
Crippled by arthritis, Wilson fell one night and broke her hip. The computer-generated
phone call to her home the next day went unanswered, alerting the police. They arrived at
her home within minutes and took her to the hospital. “I never thought I’d owe my life to a
computer,” said Mary.
• What is the main idea of this paragraph? The computer service has saved
many lives.
• What is the most important detail? The story of how Mary Wilson’s life was saved.
• What is another detail? Doctors and social service agencies back the service.
Main Idea
Main Idea 12
Teacher note: Student suggestions for solutions will vary.
Have you ever asked a friend for advice? Have you ever helped a friend solve a problem?
Listen to these “Letters to Lou” and tell the main idea. Then suggest a solution.
Dear Lou,
I’ve seen my older sister, who’s in 8th grade, smoking cigarettes with her friends. She
warned me not to tell our parents. I don’t want to tattle, but I think our parents should
know. What should I do?
Main Idea: whether to tell parents about sister’s smoking
Dear Lou,
My best friend and I like to skateboard. My parents don’t care if I don’t wear protective
equipment, but my friend’s parents freak out if he doesn’t. My friend says that if I were a
REALLY good friend, I’d wear protection, too, so he wouldn’t feel so different. What do
you think?
Main Idea: whether to support his friend by wearing protective equipment, too
Dear Lou,
I’m nine years old. My stepdad said I could get a dog for my birthday. He thinks I should
get a puppy, but I want an adult dog from the Humane Society so I know I’ve given at
least one unwanted dog a good home. How do you think my stepdad and I can solve our
differences?
Main Idea: whether to get a puppy or an adult dog
Dear Lou,
My mom and I have always been very close, up until lately, that is! Last month she
started dating a new guy she met while at a hockey game. The guy’s nice enough, but
he’s always around. I don’t feel like I have any privacy, and Mom and I never do anything
alone together anymore. My mom seems so happy, but I’m miserable. What should I do?
Main Idea: how to deal with Mom dating/Mom’s new boyfriend
Main Idea
Main Idea 13
Some newspapers have a section that congratulates or criticizes things that have happened
during the past week. Listen to this “Cheers” and “Jeers” column and tell the main idea for
each paragraph. Then tell at least two details.
CHEERS to the students at Deere Junior High. Every student in 7th and 8th grade gave
25 cents or more to the Share Joy fund. The money will be used to bring holiday cheer to
children who are critically ill at Children’s Hospital and University Hospital.
Main Idea: Junior high students donated money.

Detail: The money will go to sick children.
Detail: Each student donated at least 25 cents.
JEERS to University Hospital’s administrators who said they couldn’t accept donations raised
by minors (children under the age of 18). They declined the donation with a sincere apology.
As a result, Children’s Hospital received the entire donation.
Main Idea: University Hospital couldn’t accept money raised by children.

Detail: Administrators apologized.
Detail: The entire donation went to Children’s Hospital.
CHEERS to Alma Maters who, at the age of 89, graduated from Blackhawk College with a
degree in computer science. She’s been working on her degree since she was 78. It’s taken
her a while to graduate due to hip surgery and severe arthritis. Says Alma, “Thank goodness
I can use a mouse. I’d never be able to use my fingers fast enough for the keyboard.”
Main Idea: A woman in her 80s graduates from college.

Detail: Due to illness, it took her a long time to graduate.
Detail: Her degree is in computer science.
JEERS to Cobra Industries who wouldn’t hire Alma Maters because of her age and health.
“She just wouldn’t fit in with all our younger employees,” said Cobra owner Snakeintha Grass.
“She learns too slowly and can’t get around well enough.” The American Civil Liberties Union
became aware of Alma’s problem and stepped in. “We told Cobra that unless they give Alma
a chance at the job, we’ll take them to court.”
Main Idea: Alma was discriminated against because of her age and health.
Detail: Cobra Industries was the name of the business who wouldn’t hire her.
Detail: They said she learned too slowly and couldn’t get around well enough.
Main Idea
Main Idea 14
Have you ever watched the Home Shopping Network? You can buy almost anything from this
cable TV program. Here are just a few examples. Tell the main idea of each ad and two
supporting details.
Hey, Movie Buffs! Here’s your chance to buy all your favorite movies at great discounts!
Choose from any of these five sets: Disney® Delights, Nature Flicks, Ride ‘Em Cowboys,
Goofy Greats, and SciFi Thrillers. Each set has 12 movies for only $24.95. That’s just a
little over $2.00 per movie!
Main Idea: Get a great deal on video movies.

Detail: There are lots of titles to choose from.
Detail: Get 12 movies for only $24.95.
Love to draw? Hate the hassle of carrying all your art supplies around? Then you’ll love
Electric Sketch! This little computer gem is no bigger than a notebook and weighs under two
pounds. It has an attached paintbrush and pencil simulators so you can sketch, paint, draw,
and color your own ideas. Hit PRINT and your artwork is ready to frame. Only $1500 if you
order today!
Main Idea: Buy Electric Sketch.

Detail: It’s a computer that lets you draw, paint, sketch, and color.
Detail: It’s $1500 if you order today.
Hair-So-Green is the new hair color of the century! Just wash it in and your limey locks are
there to stay until your next washing. Also try Furple, the purplest hair color this side of Mars!
Try both at the same time and really get reactions from your friends and family. Just $34.95
per bottle. Each bottle contains about 10 applications.
Main Idea: the hottest new colors in hair dyes

Detail: Hair-So-Green
Detail: Furple
Popper Chopper, Popper Chopper — cooking ease for that busy shopper.
Just put an onion down the shoot and press the button, give a hoot.
All your veggies are chopped real fine. Just call us now, don’t wait in line.
Main Idea: Buy the Popper Chopper.

Detail: It chops vegetables.
Detail: You can call to order it.
Main Idea
Main Idea 15
Listen to these fun food facts and healthy recipes. Then answer the questions.
1. Eating a healthy diet is important for everyone. Many people have invented recipes that
are delicious, low in fat and calories, and are just plain fun to make.
What is the main idea? Everyone should eat a healthy diet.

What is one detail? People have invented low-fat recipes.
What is another detail? The recipes are delicious and fun to make.
2. Here’s a healthy recipe for Pizza Pizazz. Overlap 10 wheat tortillas on a pizza pan for
the crust. Spread the tortillas with mild or hot salsa. Put sliced vegetables such as
peppers, mushrooms, olives, onions, and zucchini on top of the salsa. Top the whole
pizza with no-fat mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for one half hour.
What is this a recipe for? Pizza Pizazz

What is one ingredient? tortillas, salsa, vegetables, cheese
What is the cooking time and temp? 350 degrees for 30 minutes
3. Smack-A-Roo Smoothie is a healthy shake to try with Pizza Pizazz. Try this. Pour 1 cup
of skim milk in a blender. Add any kind of fruit you like and a dash of vanilla or almond
extract. Mix in the blender for about 30 seconds. This is also delicious made with no-fat
frozen yogurt.
What is a Smack-A-Roo Smoothie? a healthy shake

What is one ingredient? skim milk, fruit, flavoring (vanilla or almond extract)
What process do you use to make it? mix in blender for 30 seconds
4. Mello Jell-O® is fat-free, sugar-free, and boring-free! To make Mello Jell-O®, mix any
flavor sugar-free gelatin with fat-free whipped topping and small pieces of strawberry
licorice. Refrigerate for several hours and serve with extra topping. Kids will love
it — kids from 1 to 99, that is!
What is this a recipe for? Mello Jell-O®

What is one ingredient? fat-free whipped topping, gelatin, strawberry string candy
What should you do before serving Mello Jell-O®? refrigerate for several hours
Main Idea
Main Idea 16
Teacher note: There are numerous details to choose from as appropriate responses. Ask
your students to explain any details that don’t seem logical at first.
Some kids really like to baby-sit or help with day care. Here are some things to remember
about young children at different ages. After I describe each age, tell me the main idea and
as many details as you can.
A one-year-old may or may not be walking, but he will probably be crawling. He

may or may not be saying a few little words, but he will be babbling and making
lots of funny noises. One-year-olds love to put little blocks inside boxes or pans
and they hold onto toys so tightly, it’s hard to get them to let go! These little
folks also like to eat finger food, like Cheerios®.
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical one-year-old
Have you ever heard of the “terrible twos?” Why are two-year-olds so hard to
manage? They’re discovering how independent they can be! They’re walking,
running, and climbing. They can feed themselves, put on some of their clothing
by themselves, and have definite ideas about what they like and don’t like. Most
of all, two-year-olds constantly challenge authority. They don’t want to follow
rules they’ve followed before, and they want to do whatever comes to their little
minds!
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical two-year-old
Thank goodness for three-year-olds! At this age, boys and girls like to play
together and are always seeking their parents’ approval. These children are
usually active because they can do so many things for themselves, such as use
the toilet, ride a tricycle, and do puzzles. They are little chatterboxes, too!
What’s the thing that a three-year-old has the most trouble with? Sharing!
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical three-year-old
Main Idea
Main Idea 17
Teacher note: There are numerous details to choose from as appropriate responses. Ask
your students to explain any details that don’t seem logical at first.
Let’s continue talking about kids, but let’s change the focus to older, school-aged kids. After I
describe each age, tell me the main idea and as many details as you can.
Nine-year-olds are funny because they want to be! Their senses of humor tend
to be slapstick and they love knock-knock jokes more than anything else. These
kids love adventure and science fiction movies and also like the independence
of spending most of the day on their own with their friends. Try to get a nine-
year-old to come home for lunch! No way!
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical nine-year-old
“But Dad, why can’t I?” is the constant question of an eleven-year-old because
these kids want to be adults. After all, they think like adults (sometimes) and
have lots of responsibilities at school and at home such as sports, chores, and
helping younger brothers and sisters. Eleven-year-olds are on the brink of adult
physical development and are always hungry because they’re growing so fast!
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical eleven-year-old
Finally, there are the “thrilling thirteens!” Girls and boys in their first year of
teen-hood are entering the most exciting time of life . . . high school, dating,
driving, academic challenges. Most kids like to become involved in high school
activities, such as sports, music, drama, or journalism. Family ties become less
important during the teen years as friends are the center of these kids’ worlds.
Main Idea: what to expect from a typical teenager
Main Idea
Main Idea 18
Teacher note: Student paraphrasing responses will vary.
I’m going to tell you some details. You try to figure out the main idea. Then retell or
paraphrase the whole thing.
1. It’s good to have at least one of these. If you have one, you’re hardly ever lonely.
Although it may not be there all the time, you can think about it, write to it, or call it on
the phone. It’s fun to have more than one, but you have to make sure you give each
one your attention.
Main Idea: friends
2. You may never know when it’s going to happen. It can happen in Illinois, Ohio, or Texas.
It can be high or low, loud or soft. It can cause great damage or just travel right through
town without ever being noticed. It always has a recognizable shape, however. Some
people say it looks like a funnel.
Main Idea: funnel cloud or tornado
3. In the 1970s and 1990s, it was tie-dyed shirts. In the late ‘70s and middle ‘90s, it was
platform heels. In the ‘80s it was three-piece suits and jeans, jeans, jeans. Then, Levi-
Strauss introduced Dockers and the ‘90s went khaki. What will it be in the year 2007?
Main Idea: fashion trends
4. They can be twisted or straight, thin or thick. Sometimes they’re sold by vendors who
heat them and serve them with mustard. Sometimes you can buy them unsalted,
although most people really like the salt. You’ll have to decide if you like them soft or
crunchy or broken and flavored when you get to the store.
Main Idea: pretzels
5. These used to be very popular in the ‘70s in places where people gathered to have fun.
Back then they were full of 45s, and the music would keep on playing as long as you put
in 25 cents for three selections. In total, there were probably about 200 choices. The few
around today are usually full of CDs and cost around $1.00 for three selections.
Main Idea: jukeboxes
Main Idea
News Comprehension 1
Teacher Note: Give each student a copy of page 210.
Listen as I describe some different ways to find out about the news. Then follow my
directions.
1. If you like competition, you’ll love this magazine. It tells you everything you need to know
about your favorite teams and players. And the pictures are incredible! Draw a circle
around this magazine. circle around sports magazine
2. A new one of these is usually put out every day with the most up-to-date news. You’ll find
pictures and stories about people in your community and around the world. There are
also comics, TV listings, and classified ads. Put an X on the picture of what I’m talking
about. X on newspaper
3. You can use this machine to look on the Internet to find out all kinds of information. You
operate it by using a keyboard or a mouse. Draw a wavy line under the picture of what
I’m talking about. wavy line under computer
4. You can watch this to find out about the news. The news is usually on in the morning, at
noon, and in the evening. But if you have cable, you can watch a news program on this
just about any time of day! Draw a circle around the picture of what I’m talking about.
circle around TV
5. You can read about the world’s most incredible creatures every month in this colorful
magazine. You learn about everything from aardvarks to zebras. Draw a triangle around
this magazine. triangle around animal magazine
6. Most of the time you can hear music being played on this. But, several times during the
day, a DJ or news person will tell you about sports, weather, and the news. Draw a
smiley face below the picture of what I’m talking about. smiley face below radio
News Comprehension
News Comprehension 1, continued Name __________________________
News Comprehension
News Comprehension 2-3
Introducing Locker Hour — a chance for you to find out what famous athletes keep in their
lockers. Look at the pictures of the lockers. Listen to my descriptions and follow my
directions.
1. Amanda Beard is a competitive swimmer. Draw a circle around Amanda’s locker. She
likes to keep a teddy bear in her locker. I guess you could say it’s a bear for a Beard!
Draw a teddy bear in Amanda’s locker. Locker 2
2. Penny Hardaway is a guard for the Orlando Magic. Find Penny’s locker and draw a line
under it. Penny keeps a picture of his grandma taped to his locker. Grandma Louise
gives Penny inspiration before every game. Draw a picture frame with a picture of
Penny’s grandma in it on the locker door. Locker 3
3. Eric Mobley of the Vancouver Grizzlies says if his mom saw his locker, she’d make him
clean it up before each game! Make an X on Eric’s locker. Then draw something you
could use to clean up Eric’s locker. Locker 1
I’m going to read you a sports story. Look at the pictures, listen carefully, and follow my
directions.
The Stars and Cougars played a close game Saturday. In the first half, the Stars’ goalie made
a diving stop to keep the Cougars from scoring. Put a line under the picture that matches this
part of the story. line under picture 2
A few minutes later a Cougar player just missed a goal. Her kick went just over the top of the
net. Draw a circle around the picture that matches this part of the story. circle picture 3
At halftime, there was no score. In the opening minute of the second half, a Star player
kicked a goal to the right-hand side of the net. Find picture 4. Draw the soccer ball in the net
where the Star player kicked it. draw ball in the right side of the net in picture 4
After the Stars scored the first goal of the game, the Cougars scored two more. The final
score was Cougars 2, Stars 1. Write the final score of the game on the scoreboard in
picture 1. Cougars 2, Stars 1 in picture 1
News Comprehension
Listen carefully to the descriptions your teacher reads you. Then follow the directions.
212
News Comprehension
Listen to the sports stories your teacher reads you. Then follow the directions.
1 2
3 4
News Comprehension
I’ll tell you about homes people live in around the world. Listen closely and follow my
directions.
1. In big cities, people live in apartments. Apartments are often in tall buildings. Circle an
apartment building. circle picture 4
2. Many Asian countries are wet and marshy. People who live in these areas build their
houses on stilts to keep them dry. Draw a star above the house on stilts. star above
picture 2
3. In Hong Kong, there are many people and few places to live. Many people live on boats
in the harbor. Draw a triangle around a Hong Kong houseboat. triangle around picture 1
4. In one African country, people live in houses made entirely of mud. These houses are
round and shaped like a cone. Make an X on the African mud house. X on picture 6
5. Some people move their homes often. In the Sahara desert, some people live in tents
that they move from place to place. Draw a box around the tent home. box around
picture 3
6. Some Arctic Indians build their homes with blocks of snow. These houses, called igloos,
are only used for short periods of time. Draw a wavy line under the igloo. wavy line
under picture 5
How well do you know the flags of the world? Listen to my description of flags. Then follow
my directions.
1. This flag is made up of three stripes. The stripes run up and down. Point to this flag.
France
2. This flag has many stripes on it. It also has stars in one corner. Point to this flag. United
States
3. This flag is made up of three stripes. The stripes run side to side. Point to this flag.
Austria
4. This flag has many stripes. It has a moon and a star in one corner. Point to this flag.
Malaysia
5. This flag is not a rectangle. It is made up of two triangles. Point to this flag. Nepal
6. This flag has many stripes on it. It also has a cross in one corner. Point to this flag.
Greece
7. This flag has a circle in the middle. Inside the circle is a torch. Point to this flag. Zaire
8. This flag also has a circle in the middle. There is nothing else on this flag. Point to this
flag. Japan
News Comprehension
Listen as your teacher describes some different homes. Then follow the directions.
1 2
3 4
5 6
News Comprehension
News Comprehension 5 Name __________________________
Listen as your teacher describes some different flags. Then follow the directions.
Greece Nepal
United States Malaysia
Austria France
Japan Zaire
News Comprehension
Listen to these bits of news. See if you can guess what each story is about.
1. Hardaway’s 38 points leads all scorers here in the fourth quarter. He dribbles inside,
then back, and pulls up for a three-pointer. It’s good! Hardaway now has 41 points.
What is happening? basketball game

How do you know? see underlined words
2. Five departments have been called to the scene. Tons of water have already been used,
but it doesn’t seem to be doing any good. This building could come down any second.
What is happening? a building is on fire

How do you know that? see underlined words
3. Warnings have been issued up and down the coast but some people won’t leave their
homes. Weather watchers say the eye is now 30 miles from this spot and moving toward
us. We’ll know in a few hours how much damage will be done.
What is happening? a hurricane is coming

4. The running backs were really the stars for Michigan today. Three different backs carried
the ball 75 times for over 250 yards. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough, as Michigan lost.
What happened? football game

5. People in neighborhoods around the zoo are urged to stay in their homes until the animal
is caught. Trainers are telling everyone to keep their eyes open. The black panther likes
to climb and could be hiding high up in a tree in any neighborhood. Zoo officials don’t
think the animal will harm people, but they can’t be sure.
What is happening? a panther escaped from the zoo

6. The racers all slow as the yellow flag comes out. Everyone stays in position as the roar
of the engines whines down slightly. With only ten laps left to go, it’s still a tight race.
The season championship will be decided when the checkered flag drops.
What is happening? car race

News Comprehension
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of the TV listings at the bottom of the page. Discuss
the listings to make sure your students understand how to read the chart.
Do you ever use the newspaper to find out what’s on TV? Use the TV listings to follow my
directions and answer my questions. Listen carefully.
1. Find the box for Channel 5 at 7:00. This is the time the show Pals is on. Write Pals in
the box.
2. Evening Magazine is on right after Dino’s Diner. Both shows are on Channel 7. Write
Evening Magazine in the correct box. What time does that show start? 8:00
3. Look at Channel 10. Music videos are shown for an hour in between Music Tonight and
Great Concerts. Write Music Videos in the correct place. What time do the music videos
end? 8:00
4. What show is on Channel 3 at 7:30? That’s Life
5. What show is on right before the Rocky Williams Show ? Wheel!
6. How long is Emergency Squad ? 1 hour
7. Tell me three other shows that are an hour long. Chicago Force, Music Tonight,
Great Concerts
8. What show is on between Pals and Emergency Squad ? Super Family
9. How many stations run the news at 6:00? 3
10. What is the longest show on the schedule? Starworld 3
TV Listings for Monday Night
6:00 6:30 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30
3 News Wheel! Rocky Williams That’s Life Chicago Force
5 News Lottery Super Family Emergency Squad
7 News First Edition Marvin Avenue Dino’s Diner
10 Music Tonight Great Concerts
12 Stock Report Financial News Movie: Starworld 3 (2 hours)
News Comprehension
The Humane Society features Pets of the Week in the newspaper. Here are the entries for
this week. Listen closely as I describe each one. Then answer my questions.
1. BOBBY is a 6-month-old dalmatian. He likes children older than 12. He doesn’t mind
staying alone during the day.
What kind of dog is Bobby? dalmatian
Would Bobby make a good pet for someone who works? Why? Yes, because he doesn’t
mind staying alone.
2. MISHCA is a 3-year-old German shepherd. She is very smart and knows how to sit and
shake hands.
What kind of dog is Mishca? German shepherd
What tricks can Mishca do? sit and shake hands
3. BOOTS is a 7-month-old male kitten who loves to cuddle. He is good with young
children.
What kind of animal is Boots? kitten
Is he a male or female? male
Tell me two things about Boots that a family would like. Answers will vary.
4. MIMI is a 7-year-old female cat. She is white with black spots. Mimi is missing half of
her tail and one ear was bitten off in a fight.
What kind of animal is Mimi? cat
What colors is she? white with black spots
What are two unusual things about her? half a tail, one ear bitten off
Which of these pets would you choose to adopt? Why? Answers will vary.
This newspaper also has ads for clubs to join. Listen as I describe each one. Then answer
my questions.
1. The COMPUTER CLUB is taking new members. Come to the library Monday night to
talk about computers.
What club is this ad for? computer club
What night does the club meet? Monday
Where does the club meet? library
2. A new MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB is forming. Bring your bike to our first meeting in the high
school parking lot. We’ll talk about organizing a club ride for this weekend.
What kind of club is forming? mountain bike club
What should you bring to the first meeting? your bike
What will you talk about at the first meeting? organizing a club ride for this weekend
Which club would you like to join? Why? Answers will vary.
News Comprehension
I’ll tell you some news from school newspapers. Then I’ll ask you some questions.
1. Last night, vandals broke into Washington Middle School. The troublemakers smashed a
bunch of computers and monitors. They also smeared many of the books in the library
with grease. No one knows how much it will cost to fix the damage, but it will probably be
thousands of dollars.
When did the break-in happen? last night

What were smashed? computers and monitors
What happened to the library books? They were smeared with grease.
Will it cost more or less than a hundred dollars to fix the damage? more
2. We’re proud of our Panthers! Last week our basketball team won the conference
tournament for the second straight year. The Panthers still haven’t lost a game all
season. There are two more games left, and if we win both of them, we’ll have our first
undefeated season in school history. Go Panthers!
What is the nickname of the team? Panthers

What sport do the Panthers play? basketball
How many games have the Panthers lost? none
What will the Panthers have done if they win their next two games? have their first
undefeated season in school history
3. A very special guest visited our junior high last week. Our guest was a computer game
designer who has worked on some of the hottest games on the market. He said his
favorite part of his job is getting to test all the new games. He still can’t believe he gets
paid for playing games all day.
Where did the special guest visit? junior high

What is the guest’s occupation? computer game designer
What does the game designer say is his favorite part of the job? testing the new games
What does he do that he can’t believe he gets paid for? playing games
4. Our new recreation building is finally ready. After 10 months of construction our new gym
and swimming pool will open next Monday morning. All gym classes will be held in the
new recreation building starting on that day. The new gym has four full-size basketball
courts. That’s a big improvement over our old gym which only had one court.
What kind of building is finally ready? recreation

Was the construction more or less than two years? less
What’s in the new building besides a gym? swimming pool
How many basketball courts are in the new gym? 4
How many courts were there in the old gym? 1
News Comprehension
Welcome to the newsroom! Have you ever wondered how a newspaper gets put together?
Follow my directions to help put this paper together.
1. This is the top half of the front page of a newspaper. The part of the paper that tells you
its name is called the masthead. You’ll find the masthead at the very top of the front
page. Make U.S.A. Times the masthead of this paper.
2. An important part of the newspaper is its price. A newspaper’s price is printed near the
masthead. Draw a box around this newspaper’s price.
3. The next part of the paper most people notice is the headline. The headline is the title for
a newspaper story. The story on this front page is about someone who has been stealing
bicycles. Write a short headline for this story.
4. Pictures are important to a newspaper. To the left of the story about bicycles being
stolen is a big box. Draw a picture of a bicycle here to go with the story.
5. A caption is a part of a newspaper that goes with a picture. A caption tells something
about a picture, like who is in it or what happened. A caption is found underneath a
picture. Write a caption under the picture you drew.
Listen to this story about the Earth. Follow my directions to complete the picture of the Earth
to go with the story.
I bet you thought the Earth was solid — like a big chunk of rock. You’re partly right. The
part of the Earth that we live on is solid. It’s called the crust. Label this part of the earth.
The other part of the Earth that is solid is the center. This is called the inner core. The
inner core is like a giant ball made up of iron and other materials. Label the inner core of
the Earth.
The rest of the Earth is made of liquids. The mantle is the layer of Earth that lies just
below the crust. The mantle is made up of many different kinds of melted rock. Label the
mantle of the Earth.
When a volcano erupts, the lava comes from the mantle. Draw a volcano on the surface
of the Earth with lava coming out of it.
The last part of the Earth is the outer core. It is a mixture of hot liquid metals. The outer
core lies between the mantle and the inner core. Label the outer core.
News Comprehension

222
News Comprehension
News Comprehension
Teacher note: Correct answers are italicized.
Listen to these short news stories. Then choose the headline you think is best. Remember, a
good headline gives you a clear idea of what the story is about.
1. A zoo is raising baby eagles and releasing them into the wild. By keeping the babies in a
zoo, they will stay safe until they are ready to take care of themselves. This program will
help increase the wild eagle population.
Which headline is best for this story: “Ducks in Danger” or “Zoo Watches Over Baby
Eagles” ?
2. A 12-year-old-girl has a successful business. Two years ago she started designing her
own greeting cards and now sells them in about five gift shops in the city. She hopes to
make enough money from her business to help pay for her college education.
Which headline is best for this story: “Kid’s Greeting Card Company Is a Success” or
“Money for College”?
3. The race is on to find a new way to fuel vehicles. Some scientists say the world’s supply
of oil will run out in less than a hundred years. Experts are finding new ways to make
gasoline last longer and of using the wind, the sun, and electricity to keep cars and
trucks running when all the oil is gone.
Which headline is best for this story: “No More Oil” or “Exploring New Ways to
Power Vehicles” ?
4. The Annual Ride the River Fun Ride is this Sunday morning. It’s a time for families to get
on their bikes and ride miles of trails along the river. Last year over 5,000 families rode
the river and more are expected this year. The event is free and open to anyone with a
bicycle.
Which headline is best for this story: “Families Ride the River for Fun” or “Get on
Your Bike”?
5. A permanent space station may happen in the near future. Several countries are working
together to build a station. The countries will pool their money and people to make a
station better than any one country could build on its own. The only space station
working right now is the Russian Mir, and it needs to be replaced. The new space station
will be larger and more modern.
Which headline is best for this story: “Mir Station No Good” or “Countries Cooperate to
Build Space Station” ?
6. A few years ago people thought books would soon be replaced by computers. That
hasn’t happened. In fact, there are more books being printed and bought now than ever
before. It’s kind of funny, but many books today are about how to operate computers.
Computers have actually helped sell more books than replace them.
Which headline is best for this story: “Books Are Alive and Well — Thanks to
Computers” or “Computers Less Important Than Books?”
News Comprehension
Teacher note: Give each student a copy of the puzzle at the bottom of this page.
Lots of newspapers have a puzzle page. Listen to these clues to complete this puzzle and
find the hidden weather word.
1. This is the kind of liquid that makes up rain. water
2. If you live in a northern area, you might get lots of this in the winter. snow
3. This falls from the clouds and helps things grow. rain
4. This is weather you can’t see, but you can feel it. It blows things around. wind
5. This is round, frozen rain that falls during a heavy thunderstorm. hail
6. Rain, hail, and snow all fall from these gray things in the sky. clouds
7. Too much rain will cause this. It can damage homes and farmland. flood
What is the hidden weather word? tornado
News Comprehension
People send you messages every day through newspapers, magazines, books, and
textbooks. You can send a lot of important messages of your own. Listen to these stories
about fun ways to send messages and answer the questions.
1. Did you know you can send an E-mail message to the President of the United States?
All you need to do is visit the White House website on the Internet. Then push the button
that says, “Send E-mail to the President.” It’s that easy. Of course, the President can’t
answer every message, but someone at the White House will read your E-mail.
Who does this article suggest you send E-mail to? President of the United States
What website do you visit to send the President E-mail? White House
Why do you think the President doesn’t answer all his E-mail? He doesn’t have time; he
receives too many.
2. One way to get your message heard is to write to the newspaper. A Letter to the Editor
is a letter you write to have printed in your local newspaper. It’s called a Letter to the
Editor because the person in charge of a newspaper is called an editor. Newspapers
print letters from all kinds of people, even kids. As long as you have something important
to say about your city, your newspaper might be interested in hearing from you.
What is a Letter to the Editor? a letter written to the person in charge of a newspaper
Do newspapers ever print letters from kids? yes
What’s one thing happening in your city you could write a Letter to the Editor about?
Answers will vary.
3. A kind of message we often forget about is a thank-you note. It’s nice to write a thank-
you note to anyone who gives you a gift or does something special for you. You can even
write thank-you notes to businesses or workers who have helped you with a problem.
Lots of people write thank-you notes to firefighters and police officers for their help.
What kind of note is this article about? thank-you note

When should you send someone a thank-you note? when someone gives you a gift or
does something special for you
Why would someone write a thank-you note to a firefighter? Answers will vary.
Who’s someone you could write a thank-you note to? What would you thank that person
for? Answers will vary.
News Comprehension
Most newspapers have a Letters to the Editor page. People write to the newspaper’s editor to
express their opinions. Listen carefully to these letters from a school newspaper. I’ll ask you
some questions about what you heard.
Dear Editor,
I don’t think we should have to wear school uniforms for two reasons. The first reason is that
everyone will look the same. We’re all different people, and we shouldn’t all have to look the
same. The second reason is that school uniforms are expensive. Our parents would have to
buy all new clothes for us. I think you’ll agree that school uniforms aren’t a good idea
because they’re expensive and we’d all look the same.
Darla Hood, 4th grade
What issue is Darla writing about? school uniforms

Does Darla think school uniforms are a good idea? no
What are Darla’s two reasons for opposing school uniforms? Everyone will look the
same; uniforms are expensive.
Dear Editor,
I’m tired of everyone making jokes about the food in our cafeteria. Kids are always saying
that the cafeteria lunches are gross. I don’t agree. I think the food in our cafeteria tastes
great — especially the pizza. Everyone should stop putting down cafeteria food. I’ll bet the
people who complain about the food most probably haven’t even tried it!
Arnold Drummond, 5th grade
What is this writer upset about? kids complaining about school lunches
How does this person feel about cafeteria food? He likes it.
What food served in the cafeteria does this person especially like? pizza
Dear Editor,
I wish more boys would let girls play on their teams during recess. Every day it’s the same
thing — the boys choose sides to play soccer or basketball, but they won’t let any girls play.
It’s not fair! I know for a fact that a lot of girls are better than some boys in both basketball
and soccer. Besides, we should just be playing for fun. It shouldn’t matter who’s on a team.
From now on I want the boys to let the girls play on their teams during recess. Or are they
afraid they’ll get beat by a bunch of girls?
Maureen Paulson, 6th grade
What sports is this person talking about? basketball and soccer

What is this writer complaining about? boys not allowing girls to play soccer and
basketball with them during recess
What is one reason this writer thinks the boys should let the girls play on their teams?
A lot of girls are better than some boys; they should just be playing for fun.
What does this writer think the boys are really afraid of? The girls will beat them.
Do boys and girls play on the same teams at recess in your school? Answers will vary.
News Comprehension
New Comprehension 16
Lots of newspapers have “Ask the Expert” columns. People write in and ask the expert
questions. Fuzzy Fun Fact is our expert, and she has some great questions and interesting
answers to share!
Listen closely as I read to you. Afterwards I’ll ask you some questions about what you heard.
Dear Fuzzy Fun Fact:

I asked my brother why pizza bubbles up and down in the microwave. He says the pepperoni
is trying to escape. I don’t think that’s true. Do you? Sincerely, Curious in Cleveland
1. Who is Curious in Cleveland writing to? Fuzzy Fun Fact

2. What is he curious about? why pizza bubbles up in the microwave
3. What reason did his brother give him? The pepperoni is trying to escape.
Dear Curious:
Good thing you didn’t believe your brother. Actually, lots of things bubble up and down in the
microwave . . . anything that has water or cheese in it. The motion happens when water
molecules heat up and bump into each other because there just isn’t enough room for all of
them!
1. What ingredients cause pizza to bubble up and down when it’s hot? water and cheese
2. What else might bubble when it’s hot? Answers will vary.
Dear Fuzzy Fun Fact:

A friend of mine says there are trees and bushes that glow in the dark. I don’t believe him,
and I told him he probably just needs to get his eyes checked. What do you think about
glowing bushes? Yours Truly, Dark in Denver
1. What is this person asking about? trees and bushes that glow in the dark
2. What did this person tell her friend to have done to his eyes? get them checked
3. What city does this person live in? Denver
Dear Dark:
Your friend is almost right about glowing trees and bushes. A California scientist is trying to
grow bushes that will glow in the dark. He thinks glowing bushes planted alongside roads will
help cut down on auto accidents because drivers will be able to better see where they’re
going. The scientist’s bushes don’t glow very brightly yet, but it’s possible that someday you’ll
have to wear sunglasses at night.
1. Who is trying to grow glowing bushes? a scientist

2. Why is the scientist trying to grow glowing bushes? to plant alongside roads so drivers
will be able to better see where they’re going
3. Do you think glowing bushes will help cut down on auto accidents? Why?
Answers will vary.
News Comprehension
These newspaper stories contain lots of detail. I’ll tell you what to listen for as I read the
stories to you. Then you can answer the questions.
1. Listen for exactly how the man in this story was rescued.
Headline: Dramatic Rescue Saves Man’s Life

A cable on a window washer’s scaffold broke yesterday morning. That left the window
washer dangling 38 stories in midair until rescuers arrived. Two firefighters were lowered on
cables to the man who was very happy to see them. They were all then pulled to safety.
How was the man rescued? Rescuers used a cable to lower firefighters to the man who
was then pulled to safety.
2. Listen for the kind of prize the boy in this story won.
Headline: Eighth Grader Is Youngest to Win Writing Contest

An eighth grader has taken top prize in a National Poetry Society poetry contest. A young
man from Montana wrote the poem “Autumn Springs,” which was selected for first place.
This young writer was competing against adult poets from across the nation. His award was
$200 in cash. As part of his prize, his winning poem will be published in the society’s
newsletter.
What prize did the boy win? $200, getting his poem published
3. Listen for two kinds of music this story is talking about.
Headline: Music Can Make You Smarter

Researchers have proved that some kinds of music can actually make you more intelligent.
Classical music especially makes many parts of your brain come alive. When some people
listen to the classics they actually do better on tests than people who aren’t listening to
classical music. The same can’t be said for rock and roll. There is no research that rock
music affects your brain in the same way as classical music.
What two types of music does this story mention? classical, rock and roll
4. Listen for where and how the dinosaur in this story will be displayed.
Headline: Giant T-Rex Makes His Home in Chicago

The Field Museum in Chicago is now home to one of the largest, most complete dinosaur
skeletons in the world. The museum recently paid a big price for the tyrannosaurus rex
skeleton. It will take two years to display the skeleton. Scientists won’t put the bones
together with wire, which has been done in the past. Instead, the bones will be placed
together and will sit on a custom-made platform.
Where will the dinosaur be displayed? The Field Museum in Chicago

How will it be displayed? on a custom-made platform
News Comprehension
Here are some interesting facts from around the globe. Listen and answer my questions.
The Ant People
How would you like to live underground? Thousands of years ago, people in Turkey built
entire cities underground. The rock in this region was soft, so it was easy to carve rooms
underground. People lived in these cities to stay safe in wars. The cities contained many
levels of buildings. There were places to live, churches, and shops. Almost everything you
could get above ground was included in the underground cities.
1. Why do you think this story is called “The Ant People”? It’s about people who lived
underground.
2. What kind of building project is this story about? underground cities
3. Why were people able to build cities underground in this area? The rock was soft.
4. Why did people live underground? to stay safe in wars
Fire in the Hole!
Some fires are easy to put out. Others, like underground fires, are nearly impossible to
extinguish. That’s because an underground fire can keep going as long as it gets air. It pulls
in air from hundreds of miles away through underground tunnels which are hard to plug up. In
China, a coal deposit once burned for more than a hundred years before being put out.
Firefighters finally stopped the fire by drilling holes above it. Then they dropped lots of sand,
water, and rocks on the fire to smother it.
1. What kinds of fires are hard to put out? underground fires

2. About how long did the fire in China burn? 100 years
3. Why is it hard to put out an underground fire? You must plug up the air holes that fuel it.
4. How did firefighters finally put out the fire in China? They drilled holes above it and
dropped sand, water, and rocks on it.
Quackers in Bali
Every fall, there are duck parades in Bali, a country that grows rice as its main crop. After the
rice is picked, hundreds of ducks, walking in straight lines, follow a boy with a flag until they
reach the rice paddies. Once they’re in the paddies, which are muddy and full of insects, the
ducks spend several weeks eating the bugs. When all the bugs are eaten, the ducks are fat
and the farmers are happy. The ducks have helped make healthy fields for next year’s crop.
1. Why do the ducks look like they’re having a parade? They walk in straight lines behind a
boy carrying a flag.
2. What two things do the ducks follow? boy, flag
3. What important job do the ducks in Bali do? eat bugs in the rice paddies
4. Do the ducks spend more or less than a week eating the insects? more
News Comprehension
Listen to these classified ads from the newspaper. Then answer the questions.
HAVE CRYSTAL-CLEAR WINDOWS. When I’m done with your windows, you won’t believe
your eyes. The world will be clearer and the sun will be brighter. My special window cleaning
formula is the best around. I guarantee your windows will be the cleanest they’ve ever been
or I’ll give you your money back. Call me today before all your neighbors do.
1. What service is this person advertising? window cleaning

2. What will this person do if you aren’t happy with the job he did? return your money
MUST SELL! Nintendo 64 video game system. Many game cartridges included, as well as
two game controllers. Just like new — hardly ever played.
1. What kind of game system is this? Nintendo 64

2. What do you get besides the game system and game cartridges? two game controllers
3. What kind of shape do you think this game is in? How can you tell? good shape, hardly
ever played
GET READY FOR COLD DAYS AND NIGHTS with high-quality firewood delivered to your
door. Full pickup truck load split and ready to be burned. We’ll even unload it and stack it for
you. Call for the best prices in town.
1. What is this ad selling? firewood

2. What do these people do in addition to delivering the firewood to your home? unload
and stack it
3. How would you find out how much the firewood costs? call
FREE KITTENS! Once you see these adorable kittens, you won’t be able to resist them.
Three orange females and one black male. These cute kitties will go fast, so call first to make
sure we still have some left.
1. What is this ad about? kittens

2. How much do the kittens cost? They’re free.
3. What color are the females? orange
4. Why should you call first? to make sure there are some left
SPACE-SAVING BUNK BEDS. Make your bedroom look bigger with this high-quality bunk
bed set. These beds are solid wood and have many nicks and scratches. A good coat of
stain will have them looking like new. Mattresses not included.
1. What is this ad selling? bunk beds

2. What are the beds made of? wood
3. What kind of shape are the beds in? They have lots of nicks and scratches.
4. What isn’t included with the bunk bed set? mattresses
News Comprehension
Listen to these classified ads from the newspaper. Then answer the questions.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED to clean up city parks. Kids Crew is forming to clean up our parks.
If you’re in fourth, fifth, or sixth grade, you can join Kids Crew. We’ll spend two hours every
Saturday morning cleaning up our parks. Give me a call or come to our next meeting.
1. What is the name of the group that is forming? Kids Crew

2. What will this group clean up? parks
3. Are you the right age to join Kids Crew? Answers will vary.
4. Does this job pay anything? How do you know? No. It asks for volunteers.
5. How do you join Kids Crew? call, come to meeting
FREE DINOSAUR SWEATSHIRT for anyone who joins my book club today. Marty’s Dinosaur
Book Club sends you a new book about dinosaurs every month. Each book is only $10.00.
Join today and you get a dinosaur sweatshirt absolutely FREE! Your first book and your
sweatshirt will be in your hands next week, but only if you call Marty today!
1. What kind of club is this for? book club

2. What kind of sweatshirt can you get for free? dinosaur
3. How often will you receive a new book? every month
4. How much is each book? ten dollars
5. When will you get your sweatshirt and first book? by next week
WRITING CONTEST ACCEPTING ENTRIES through the end of the month. This writing
contest is open to any high school student in the state. Categories include poetry, short story,
children’s story, and newspaper writing. Winners in each category will receive cash prizes.
The overall winner will meet with Governor Adams at the capitol building. Call today for
details.
1. What kind of contest is being advertised? writing

2. Who can enter the contest? high school students in the state
3. Tell me one category of writing which will be judged. poetry, short story, children’s story,
newspaper writing
4. What will the category winners win? cash prizes
5. Who will the overall winner get to meet? Governor Adams
FREE GUITAR LESSONS this weekend only. Bring your guitar to Don’s Music Store on
Saturday and Sunday afternoons for free group lessons. Don’s Music sponsors these special
two-hour lessons every year for new guitar players. After your lesson you can check out the
low prices on guitars at Don’s Music. Come join us for free lessons and fun!
1. What is being offered for free? guitar lessons

2. What store is offering the lessons? Don’s Music Store
3. How often does Don’s Music sponsor these lessons? once a year
4. How long are the lessons? two hours
5. Will you be by yourself or in a group at these lessons? in a group
News Comprehension
Welcome to Professor Toad’s Amazing Animal Column. Listen as I read about these amazing
animals. Then answer the questions.
1. A frog is more than twice the size of a snake’s mouth. Still, a snake can easily swallow a
frog, which would be about the same as you or me trying to swallow a telephone.
Snakes can swallow animals larger than their bodies because their jaw bones open so
wide, kind of like a door. But once a frog has stepped through that door, he won’t come
out!
Is a frog bigger or smaller than a snake’s mouth? bigger

A snake swallowing a frog is about the same as you or me trying to swallow a ____.
telephone
What’s something else that opens like a frog’s mouth? door
2. Have you ever seen a flamingo? They are beautiful pink and white birds with long, pink
legs. If you ever saw a baby flamingo, though, you wouldn’t think it would grow up to look
like its mother. Baby flamingoes are gray with stubby black legs. When they are hungry,
they bark like puppies. It’s hard to believe these scruffy little birds will grow up to be
graceful flamingoes.
What kind of bird is this story about? flamingo

Does a baby flamingo look like its mother? no How is it different? It’s gray with stubby
black legs.
What sound does a baby flamingo make? barking
3. Everyone thinks the male lion is the king of the jungle. That may be true, but it’s the
female lion who does most of the work. Female lions give birth to and raise the young
lions. They also do most of the hunting for a group of lions. Male lions spend most of
their time lying in the sun and napping. About the only time male lions aren’t lazy is
when it’s time to eat!
Who does more work, the male lion or the female lion? female lion
Female lions give birth to and raise the young. What else do they do? hunt for a group
of lions
Tell me a time when male lions aren’t lazy. when it’s time to eat
4. Elephants have some incredible eating habits. They eat more than any land animal!
They eat so much, they forget to sleep. In fact, an elephant spends 23 hours a day
eating about 300 pounds of food. They have to eat that much to keep their huge bodies
going.
What animal was this story about? elephants

Why don’t elephants sleep much? They’re always eating.
Why do elephants have to eat so much? to keep their huge bodies going
How many pounds of food do elephants eat every day? 300
News Comprehension
Listen to these stories about amazing young athletes. Then answer my questions.
1. In 1997 Martina Hingis was only 16 years old. She was also the number one ranked
woman tennis player in the world. She played in her first tournament when she was only
five. Besides playing tennis, Martina likes to shop for black clothes, play basketball, and
spend time with her mom.
How old was Martina Hingis in 1997? 16

In what sport was she ranked number one in the world? tennis
When did she play in her first tournament? when she was five
What is one thing she likes to do when she’s not playing tennis? shop, play basketball,
spend time with her mom
2. Amber is a champion mountain biker. She’s also only 10 years old. Amber has won
tournaments against women who are 18 years old. She says she doesn’t worry about
getting nervous before a big race. In fact, the worst thing about racing isn’t nerves, Amber
says. It’s having to listen to her dad’s music on the radio when they drive to a race.
How old is Amber? 10

How old are the women Amber competes against? 18
Does Amber get nervous before a race? no
What does Amber say is the worst thing about racing? listening to her dad’s music on
the way to a race
3. Manuel’s nickname is Turbo because he runs so fast. He’s in the fifth grade and has won
three national track titles. He started running after watching a video about a famous
Olympic sprinter. Manuel dreams of someday being in the Olympics, too. When this fifth-
grader isn’t turning on his turbo-charged power on the track, Manuel likes to read about
sports.
What is Manuel’s nickname? Turbo

What grade is Manuel in? fifth grade
What sport does Manuel participate in? track
What does Manuel dream of participating in? the Olympics
What does Manuel like to do besides run? read about sports
4. Andrew is in the ninth grade. His sport is one that most people don’t know much about.
He’s a luge racer. A luge is a special type of sled that goes down a curvy, icy track. A
luge can go as fast as a car. Andrew is training for the Junior Winter Olympics. He trains
on the luge for several weeks each winter. He has also trained in Europe. When he isn’t
riding the luge, Andrew plays on his school’s soccer team. He also plays the guitar.
What sport does Andrew participate in? luge

How fast can a luge go? as fast as a car
Why does Andrew only train for the luge in the winter? It needs to be cold outside.
Where has Andrew trained? in Europe
What does Andrew do besides ride the luge? play soccer, play the guitar
News Comprehension
Radio/TV Information 1-2
Radio/TV Information 1
Look at the TV pictures as I read parts of four TV commercials. Then follow my directions.
1. “Six Banners Theme Park is now open for the season. Test your courage against some
of the biggest, fastest, meanest roller coasters and rides in the world.” Put an X on the
picture that goes with this commercial. X on roller coaster
2. “Kids love Crunchy O’s cereal. They love it because it tastes great and has the loudest
crunch of any cereal.” Draw a circle around the picture that goes with this commercial.
circle cereal
3. “The Museum of Natural Science is a great place to spend a Saturday. Not only is it free,
it’s the only place in town you can touch a dinosaur!” Draw a line under the picture that
goes with this commercial. line under dinosaur skeleton
4. “The Clark County Animal Shelter is a great place to find that special dog or cat. Come
visit us and meet the next member of your family.” Draw a box around the picture that
goes with this commercial. box dog and cat
People on TV and radio always seem to be talking about the weather. That’s because the
weather affects almost everything we do.
Listen to each weather report and look at the two pictures in each TV. Circle the picture that
goes with each weather report.
1. “It’ll be a pleasant afternoon with lots of sunshine and comfortable temperatures.” circle
girl wearing sunglasses
2. “Look out for thunderstorms this morning. These storms could bring lots of rain, lightning,
and wind.” circle tree and rain
3. “We’re in for an uncomfortable afternoon today. It will be very hot and humid with
temperatures near 100 degrees.” circle boy fanning himself
4. “Looks like winter is finally here. We could wake up to several inches of snow on the
ground by tomorrow morning.” circle girl sledding
Radio/TV Information
Radio/TV Information 1, continued Name __________________________
Look at the TV pictures as I read. Then answer the questions.
1. “The pass is in the air and Jackson is open. It’s a touchdown!” What game is being
played? football Did the team score? yes
2. “JP Lenney’s big winter sale is going on all weekend. Everything in the store will be priced
to sell!” What kind of sale is JP Lenney’s having? winter When is the sale? all weekend
3. “Let’s practice saying the alphabet. Sing this along with me. A, B, C, D, E, F, G.” What
does the bird want you to say? the alphabet What letter did he stop on? G
4. “Let’s take a look at the weather for the east coast. Looks like lots of sun and warm
temperatures.” What is this person’s job? meteorologist, weather forecaster Is she
talking about good weather or bad weather? good weather
Look at the TV pictures as I read. Then answer the questions.
1. “Kids love King Krunch cereal. It’s packed with vitamin-filled crunchy corn pops. Not only
does it taste great, but it’s also good for you.” Who loves King Krunch cereal? kids
Is King Krunch good for you? yes
2. “No one stays dry when the Squirtblast is in town. Get the new Squirtblast 2000. It’s 10
gallons of squirting fun!” What is the name of this squirt gun? Squirtblast 2000
How much water does the Squirtblast 2000 hold? 10 gallons
3. “He’s no farm dog. He doesn’t like the suburbs. He’s a dog who loves the action of the
city. And the only thing he’ll eat is Downtown Dog dog food.” What is one place this dog
doesn’t live? farm, suburbs What’s the name of this dog food? Downtown Dog
Why is that a good name? because it’s for dogs who live in the city
4. “Space Meteor is the hottest new computer game on the market. Not only is it fun, but
kids will also learn the names of all the planets while playing.” What kind of game is
Space Meteor? computer What will kids learn by playing this game? all the planet
names
Look at the TV pictures and listen carefully. Then answer some questions.
Look at the TV pictures and listen to some commercials. Then answer the questions.
Look at the picture of a TV show as I read what’s happening. Then answer the questions.
“On the next Troubles with Max, Max gets in trouble again. This time, he decides to give his
friend Cal a sand bath. Max’s dad doesn’t think giving Cal a sand bath is such a good idea.
That’s Troubles with Max, this afternoon at 4:00.”
1. What is the name of this show? Troubles with Max.

2. Why do you think it’s called that? Max always gets in trouble.
3. Max’s friend is Cal. What does Max do to Cal? gives him a sand bath
4. Max dumps sand on Cal’s head. Besides Cal, who else is upset? Max’s dad
“This week on Dino-pet, Monica and her pet take a wild ride. Monica’s dinosaur begs for a
bicycle ride. Monica knows this isn’t a good idea because Dino-pet is huge, but she tries
anyway. Tune in to Dino-pet to find out what happens next.”
1. The name of this show is Dino-pet. Why do you think that’s a good name for the
show? because it’s about a pet dinosaur
2. What is the name of the girl on the show? Monica
3. Why doesn’t Monica think it’s a good idea to give her dinosaur a ride on her bicycle?
because it’s too big
“On the next episode of The Substitute, Mr. Porter fills in for a teacher who has four sets of
identical twins in her class. The twins delight in switching places and continuously confusing
Mr. Porter. The rest of the students decide to join in the fun, and by lunchtime, Mr. Porter has
lost control of the class! Tune in to The Substitute Thursday at 4:30 to find out how Mr. Porter
handles this day’s crisis.”
1. Why do you think this show is called The Substitute? It’s about a substitute teacher.
2. What is the name of the substitute teacher? Mr. Porter
3. What is special about the students in this class? There are four sets of
identical twins.
4. What could Mr. Porter do to help him learn the differences between the twins?
Answers will vary.
Look at the TV pictures and listen carefully. Then answer some questions.
I’m going to ask you some questions and read some things you might hear on the radio.
Listen carefully.
1. Is this about music or the weather? “That was the latest by LeAnn Medley called ‘Bring
the Night.’” music
2. Is this about sports or the weather? “Watch for heavy fog tomorrow morning.” weather
3. Is this about sports or music? “Tonight’s game between the Bears and the Oilers will
start in just a few seconds.” sports
4. Is this a commercial or is it talking about music? “So stop on down to Smiley’s Car Wash
for two dollars off tomorrow only!” commercial
5. Is this about music or the news? “A cow got loose on the Ryan Expressway today
blocking traffic for over two hours until police caught it.” news
6. Is this about weather or is it a commercial? “Grab your umbrella because there’s a good
chance of storms all day today.” weather
7. Is this about music or sports? “Tickets are still available to see our next group in concert
Saturday night. Stick around for their latest song.” music
8. Is this about sports or the weather? “Morris takes the pass; he dribbles to the top of the
key. His shot goes up, and it’s good for two points!” sports
9. Is this about news or music? “Hang in there for a song from last year’s most popular
singer.” music
10. Is this a commercial or is it about the news? “The mayor said today that crime has been
going down for the last four months.” news
11. Is this about music or sports? “Last night’s Mallards game wasn’t even close. They beat
Flint 6 to 2.” sports
12. Is this news or is it a commercial? “Before you buy that video game cartridge, check our
prices first. Come on down to Video City for the best games at the best prices.”
commercial
Listen to the radio announcer and answer the questions.
1. “It’s 75 degrees and sunny outside.”

Is it a nice day? yes
2. “Next up is this week’s number 1 hit.”

Is the next song an unpopular one? no How do you know? It’s number 1.
3. “It’s 6:38. Thanks for listening to Country 101.”

What time is it? 6:38
4. “Good news, kids. Thanks to last night’s blizzard, all schools in the metro area are
closed today!”
Why are the schools closed? last night’s blizzard
5. “A brand new song is up next after this commercial.”

What will be played before the new song? commercial
6. “That was ‘Breaking Us Apart’ by 14-year-old singer Brandon.”

How old is the singer? 14
7. “Expect rain and cold temperatures tomorrow.”

What kinds of activities wouldn’t you plan to do tomorrow? Answers will vary.
8. “Tune in for the Cowboys game live at 2:00 tomorrow.”

What team will be playing in the game? the Cowboys
9. “We’ll have 10 songs in a row next with no commercials.”

How many songs will be played in a row? 10
10. “Come see me, J.J. Day, broadcasting live from the Computer Junction store on
Saturday afternoon.”
What kind of store will J.J. Day be broadcasting from? computer store
11. “The seventh caller at 312-ROCK wins a pair of tickets to River Jam.”
Which number caller wins the tickets? seventh
12. “Stay off Market Street. Looks like a truck full of oranges tipped over in the middle
of the street.”
What was the truck that tipped over carrying? oranges
13. “Well the Cubs did it again last night. They beat the Braves 13 to 4.”
Who did the Cubs beat? the Braves
Listen to the announcer. Answer the questions.
1. “Sorry, folks, all the tickets for the Rock Fest Concert have been sold out.”
Can you still buy tickets for the concert? no
2. “America’s Funniest Home Videos will be back to announce the winners after this
commercial.”
What will happen before the winners are announced? A commercial will be played.
3. “Whitney Houston’s new CD will be available on November 3rd.”

In what month will Whitney Houston’s CD be available? November
4. “It’s almost certain we’ll have rain and a few thunderstorms tomorrow.”
What’s one activity you wouldn’t be able to do tomorrow? Answers will vary.
5. “The quarterback was the hero again yesterday as the Packers beat the Lions.”
What team did the Packers beat? the Lions
6. “The mayor announced that more people now have jobs in the city than at any time in
its history.”
Who made the announcement about the jobs? the mayor
7. “Come on down to Smiling Al’s for the best deals on wheels. We have the best new and
used selection in the state.”
What does Smiling Al sell? cars
8. “Tuesday is double day at the Burger Barn. You’ll get one free cheeseburger for every
one you buy.”
What do you need to do to get a free cheeseburger? buy one cheeseburger
9. “After the break, I’ll play two songs in a row from today’s most popular female singer.”
How many songs in a row will be played by the same singer? 2
10. “The New York Knicks are in one of the worst losing streaks of their history. The team
has dropped ten straight games but will try to rebound tonight.”
How many games have the Knicks lost? 10
11. “Get out there and enjoy the day today. After some morning showers, the skies will be
clear and blue.”
When might it rain? in the morning
12. “Today only, get $5 off any CD you buy at Music Monster.”
How long does the sale last? today only
Listen to these TV promotions. Then answer the questions.
1. “Don’t miss the new Saturday morning cartoon lineup. The morning starts off with The
Fantastic Five followed by The Rug Brats.”
Which show comes on first? The Fantastic Five

What day of the week are these shows on? Saturday
What kind of shows are these? cartoons
2. “Next on News Channel 9, we’ll look at today’s news. Then we’ll check out our stormy
weather forecast.”
What happens after today’s news? the weather forecast

What do you think the weather is going to be like? stormy
What channel is this show on? 9
3. “Don’t miss any of the action this Saturday. First off, it’s college football followed by
women’s tennis from Australia.”
What event is on first? football

What is on next? women’s tennis
Where is the tennis match being held? Australia
4. “After our interview with the President, we’ll visit a dairy farm. That’s all coming up next
on News Eye.”
Who is being interviewed on the show? the President

What happens after the interview? visit a dairy farm
What is the name of the show? News Eye
5. “You’re watching the Music Channel. Here’s the top rock video in the nation. Then we’ll
show you the number one country video.”
Which video is second? country

Which video will be played before that one? rock
What channel are the videos being shown on? the Music Channel
6. “We’ve got a great show for you tonight on Late Time. Our first guest tonight is Canada’s
most popular actor, and then we’ll introduce you to a man who can put his entire fist into
his mouth. That’s all next on Late Time.”
What is the name of this show? Late Time

What does the first guest do for a living? actor
What interesting thing does the second guest do? puts his entire fist into his mouth
Sometimes people on the radio don’t seem to mean exactly what they say. They often use
figurative language to get their messages across.
Listen to each radio message. Then answer the question about what was said.
1. “Our college football coverage kicks off Saturday afternoon at 1:00.”

What does “kicks off” mean? begins, starts
2. “That was Rita Dee’s big hit ‘March in Time.’”

What does “big hit” mean? popular song
3. “Coming up next is the news and today’s top story.”

What does “top story” mean? most important story
4. “And now for sports: last night the Braves crushed the Astros 10 to 2.”
What does “crushed” mean? beat, defeated
5. “Keep it right here for the hottest new music in the metro area.”
What does “keep it right here” mean? Don’t change radio stations.
What does “the hottest music” mean? the most popular music
6. “The Buccaneers led the Cowboys for three quarters before folding in the final minutes
and losing 14 to 10.”
What does “folding” mean? giving up
7. “Even though his last CD was a dud, Maxwell hopes to strike it big with his next release.”
What does “dud” mean? unpopular, not a money-maker
What does “strike it big” mean? make a lot of money
8. “You won’t believe our prices on video game cartridges. We’re practically giving the
stuff away.”
Do you think the prices on these video games are low? Why? yes, because they’re
practically giving them away
9. “Forget those other stations. If you’re looking for the best sounds in the valley, K-WOOF
is the leader of the pack.”
What does “the leader of the pack” mean? number 1
10. “Stick with Z-RAP as we go back in time for some tunes from the early days of hip-hop.”
Do you think Z-RAP will be playing new or old music next? Why? old, because the DJ
said we’ll be going back in time
Sometimes people on the radio don’t seem to mean exactly what they say. They often use
figurative language to get their messages across.
Listen to each radio message. Then answer the question about what was said.
1. “Stay away from King Boulevard this afternoon. The parade will have traffic backed up
for blocks.”
What does it mean when traffic is “backed up”? Cars are waiting to move.
What is causing the traffic back up? parade
2. “Last night the Hawks smothered the New Jersey Nets 118 to 80.”
What does “smothered” mean? beat, defeated
Name one team involved in the game. Hawks/Nets
3. “Our new mayor said his win in the election was no big surprise. He said he could smell
victory this afternoon after talking to voters.”
What does it mean to “smell victory”? sense it
What did the mayor do that made him think he would win? talked to voters
4. “Stick around for the latest dance single from Whitney Dallas. Her new song, ‘I Will
Always Know You,’ is lighting up the nation.”
What does “lighting up the nation” mean? becoming popular across the country
What kind of music do you think is being played? Why? dance, because Whitney
Dallas’s song is dance music.
5. “Don’t worry about delays heading out of the city today. Traffic is moving smooth as silk
on all expressways and surface streets.”
What does it mean for traffic to move as “smooth as silk”? flowing well
How are expressways and city streets alike and different? Traffic moves quickly on
expressways with no stops; city streets have lower speed limits and STOP signs and
stoplights.
6. “As you heard this afternoon, the Arizona Cardinals won over the Jets in a squeaker.
Arizona kicked a field goal with no time on the clock to win.”
What kind of a game is a “squeaker”? close
What did Arizona kick in order to win? field goal
7. “The city council is under attack by citizens today. People are criticizing the council for
cutting funds to the summer youth program. Members of the council are defending
themselves, saying money for youth programs is simply drying up.”
Are citizens really attacking city council members and hurting them? no
How are people attacking the council? verbally
What does it mean to “cut” funds? take them away
What does it mean when the council says the money is “drying up”? running out
Lots of companies choose to advertise their products on radio. They like the way radio lets
listeners picture what’s happening in their minds.
Close your eyes, concentrate on the words you hear, and answer the questions.
(Speak in a very slow, soothing voice.)

“Springtime. Gentle raindrops on April afternoons. The grays of winter pushed aside
by the greens of a new season. It’s a beautiful time, and everyone seems happy and
ready for summer. But something’s not quite right.”
What do you “see” in your mind when you think about springtime? Answers will vary.
What product do you think this commercial is about? Why? Answers will vary.
(Reread first portion, then make your voice a little more animated for the following part.)
“Don’t forget it’s been a long winter for your car, too. It’s probably spotted, streaked,
and covered with road grime. Help your car become a part of the beauty of spring.
Bring it to Squeaky Clean Car Wash today and make spring a little more beautiful for
everyone.”
Were you surprised when you found out what this commercial was about? Answers
will vary.
What was the name of the car wash? Squeaky Clean Car Wash
* * * * * * *
(Use your voice to reflect the musical styles in this commercial.)
“Music is all around us. From the sophisticated sounds of a symphony orchestra to
the twang of down-home country and western, music touches us every day. We hear
the laid-back energy of hip-hop on TV commercials and the bite of rock almost
everywhere. Music isn’t just a language of its own, it’s a world of languages, and
everyone has favorites.”
Can you “hear” these types of music in your head? Answers will vary.
Tell me some of your favorite songs. What kinds of music are they? Answers will vary.
(Reread the first portion, then continue with a high-energy voice for the next part.)
“That’s where Music Universe comes in. We speak every language of music and
probably some you haven’t even heard of. Check out today’s hottest CDs, cassettes,
and videos, along with posters, magazines, and T-shirts of your favorite bands. If you
can’t find it at Music Universe, it probably doesn’t exist.”
What kind of place is Music Universe? music store

Tell me two things you can buy at Music Universe besides CDs. cassettes, videos,
posters, magazines, T-shirts
Look at the map and listen carefully to this weather report.
“We have all kinds of weather going on around the nation today. In the west it’s
sunny and warm. Things aren’t going too well in the northeast, though, where snow
is falling all along the coast. The middle of the country is getting drenched with lots of
rain. But across the southern section of the country, it’s hot.”
Now listen to my weather report again and follow the directions.
1. “We have all kinds of weather going on around the nation today. In the west, it’s sunny
and warm.” Draw a big sun in the western part of the nation.
2. “Things aren’t going too well in the northeast, though, where snow is falling all along the
coast.” Find the northeastern part of the country. Draw snowflakes along the coast there.
3. “The middle of the country is getting drenched with lots of rain.” Draw dark clouds and
raindrops on the middle of the map.
4. “But across the southern section of the country, it’s hot.” Find the southern part of the
country. Draw some little suns across the south to show that it’s hot.
Look at the map as you listen to this traffic report.
“Traffic is a real mess out there today. Construction has nearly stopped traffic on I-44
near Webster Groves. But things are moving better into the city by the time you hit
the I-44 and I-55 Interchange. An accident on the Interstate 64 bridge over the
Mississippi River has things really moving slowly. Traffic is still backed up on I-64 all
the way out to the zoo. After that backup, I-64 is smooth sailing past Richmond
Heights all the way to the 270 bypass.”
Now listen to the traffic report again and follow my directions.
1. “Traffic is a real mess out there today. Construction has nearly stopped traffic on I-44
near Webster Groves.” Circle Webster Groves on the map.
Radio/TV Information 14, continued
2. “But things are moving better into the city by the time you hit the I-44 and I-55
Interchange.” Make an X at the place where I-44 and I-55 meet.
3. “An accident on the Interstate 64 bridge over the Mississippi River has things really
moving slowly.” Draw a box around the Interstate 64 bridge over the Mississippi River.
4. “Traffic is still backed up on I-64 all the way out to the zoo.” Circle the zoo.
5. “After that backup, I-64 is smooth sailing past Richmond Heights all the way to the 270
bypass.” Make an X on Richmond Heights. Then draw a circle around the place where
I-64 meets I-270.
Look at the map as you listen to this news report.
“Employees at the See-Thru Glass Company got a big surprise today. The President
of the United States was at the front door to greet them. Afterwards, he took a tour of
the factory and spoke to the company in the cafeteria. The President was on hand to
congratulate the glass company on the opening of its new West Plant. He also
helped plant a tree at the company’s front gate. After the visit, the company held a
big picnic under a giant tent in the parking lot.”
Now listen to the news report again and follow my directions.
1. “Employees at the See-Thru Glass Company got a big surprise today. The President of
the United States was at the front door to greet them.” Draw the President standing at
the front door.
2. “Afterwards, he took a tour of the factory and spoke to the company in the cafeteria.”
Circle the cafeteria.
3. “The President was on hand to congratulate the glass company on the opening of its new
West Plant.” Put an X on the West Plant. Draw a box where you think the company
might build an East Plant.
4. “He also helped plant a tree at the company’s front gate.” Draw a tree at the company’s
front gate.
5. “After the visit, the company held a big picnic under a giant tent in the parking lot.” Draw
a big tent in the parking lot.
Look at the map and listen carefully to the weather report your teacher reads you.
252
Look at the map and listen carefully to the traffic report your teacher reads you.
253
Look at the map and listen carefully to the news report your teacher reads you.
254
Sometimes radio announcers give you a lot of information at one time, even though you just
want to hear a specific piece of information.
I’ll tell you what information to listen for. Then I’ll read the radio announcement. When I’m
done, I’ll ask you some questions about what you were supposed to listen for.
1. Listen for information about the big fire downtown.

“Topping our news headlines, the mayor approves spending for ten new city parks,
and a fire in a downtown office building rages on as firefighters try to move 400
workers to safety.”
Is the fire still burning? yes

What is on fire? office building
How many workers need to get out of the building? 400
2. Listen for news about whether schools will stay open.

“The blizzard continues to dump snow on us. Over 13 inches have been reported in
some areas. All city schools and many businesses will be closed tomorrow while
crews try to clear the streets. The mayor is urging everyone to stay home until the
streets have been cleared.”
Will there be school tomorrow? no

Why will school be closed? The streets aren’t clear.
Besides schools, what else will be closed due to the blizzard? many businesses
3. Listen for news about how computers are changing our lives.
“In technology news, there’s now a new way to shop for groceries from home. A
company called Banana Peel will now let you order groceries from your computer and
have them delivered to your door.”
What’s something we can use computers for? shop for groceries

What is the name of the company offering this service? Banana Peel
4. Listen for news about an incredible animal story.

Our top story: a blind dog rescued a three-year-old girl from a backyard swimming pool
this morning. The dog heard the girl thrashing in the water from next door, jumped the
fence, and pulled the girl to safety. Both the dog and the girl are doing fine.”
What kind of dog was the hero? blind

How old was the girl? three
How did the dog know the girl was in trouble? It heard the girl thrashing in the water.
Sometimes radio announcers give you a lot of information at one time, even though you just
want to hear a specific piece of information.
I’ll tell you what information to listen for. Then I’ll read the radio announcement. When I’m
done, I’ll ask you some questions about what you were supposed to listen for.
1. Listen for tomorrow’s weather.

“It’s 1:15 and time to check traffic and weather. I hope you’re not in a hurry to get out
of the city this afternoon. A two-car accident has the 284 crawling, and all other
roads are slow because of construction. The news is a little better in terms of
weather. Expect sunny skies and a high of 85 this afternoon. For tomorrow, look for
sunny skies in the morning with a chance of rain by afternoon. Temperatures should
stay warm.”
What will the weather be like tomorrow morning? sunny

How might the weather change by tomorrow afternoon? chance of rain
Will it be a cool day or a warm day? warm
2. Listen for information about the Monster Truck Show.

“Let’s take a look at what’s going on around the area this weekend. Six new movies
will be opening in the city Friday night. If you’re not in the mood for a movie, Kemper
Arena will be filled with dirt for the Monster Truck Show which begins at 8:00. For the
grand finale a motorcycle rider will jump 15 monster trucks. Saturday night brings the
Rolling Stones to town once again to play Arrowhead Stadium.”
What time does the Monster Truck Show begin? 8:00

Where is the show? Kemper Arena
What’s one other thing going on during the weekend? Rolling Stones concert
What’s going to happen during the grand finale? a motorcycle rider will jump 15
monster trucks
3. Listen for information about the Fun Run.

“Summer is here, and it’s time to get out and enjoy the weather. Join some of your
favorite celebrities at the 10th Annual Summer Fun Run. This one-mile run starts at
noon on Saturday. And if you don’t want to run, you can just walk the one-mile
course. All money raised goes to the County Animal Shelter. Join us for the Summer
Fun Run on Saturday.”
What time of year is the Fun Run held? summer

How long is the race? 1 mile
What time does the Fun Run start? noon
What does the Fun Run raise money for? County Animal Shelter
Listen carefully to these programs. I’m going to ask you some questions about the things you
heard. You can take some notes if you’d like.
“Tonight on the six o’clock news, we’re following two big stories. First we’ll have pictures from
a spectacular fire at an oil refinery. People six miles away are able to see the smoke. Then
we’ll take a look at bicycle safety. Our reporter will talk to kids about how they feel about
wearing helmets and pads when they ride. That’s all tonight on the six o’clock news.”
1. What time does the news start? 6:00

2. How many news stories were mentioned? 2
3. What was the first story about? a fire
4. What was the second story about? bicycle safety
5. Who was going to be interviewed about wearing helmets and pads? kids
“Today’s NBA Notes show is brought to you by Lenny’s Pizza. The next time you get together
to watch a game, make sure you’re eating a Lenny’s Pizza. And now, here are your NBA
Notes. Everyone is wondering who will step up as the team to beat in the NBA. For the first
time in many years, most of the teams are pretty even. I’ll make a prediction right now,
though. Next June, look for the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers to meet in the NBA
finals. I think you’ll see the Lakers take the trophy. Thanks for listening to NBA Notes.”
1. What sport is this show about? basketball

2. What is the name of the show? NBA Notes
3. What kind of food is advertised on the show? pizza
4. Does this sportscaster know who will win the NBA Finals? no
5. What team does she think will win the title? Los Angeles Lakers
“Welcome to Cooking for Kids — thirty seconds of kitchen tips for young cooks. Kitchens are
full of things that can burn you and cut you, but they’re also full of things that can make you
sick, like germs. The most important safety rule for the kitchen is to keep your hands,
utensils, and counters clean. Use hot water and soap, and wash anything after it’s touched
food. So don’t be afraid of soap — it can keep you from getting sick. Thanks for listening to
Cooking for Kids.”
1. Who is this show for? kids

2. What is the name of this show? Cooking for Kids
3. What are three ways you can get hurt in a kitchen? burn, cut, germs that make you sick
4. How do you prevent germs from spreading in the kitchen? keep hands, utensils, and
counters clean
5. When should you wash your hands in the kitchen? after they touch any food
Listen carefully to these programs. I’m going to ask you some questions about the things you
heard. You can take some notes if you’d like.
“Welcome back to All About Us — the only show about kids and for kids. Today on All About
Us we have a great lineup of guests and features. First, we’ll visit with members of the
Canadian figure skating team. Canada has won many medals over the years, and they look
to take more in the next Olympic Games. After visiting the Canadian figure skating team,
we’ll head south to hear from a unique musician. He’s a 12-year-old blues guitarist from
Louisiana who has played with some of the greatest musicians of all time. He’ll even give us
a quick guitar lesson. After that musical adventure, we’ll check out the latest music videos
from some of your favorite bands. So don’t go away — All About Us will be back after these
messages.”
1. Is this a radio program or a TV program? TV program How can you tell? Music videos
aren’t on the radio.
2. What’s the name of the show? All About Us
3. What country is the figure skating team featured on the show from? Canada
4. What instrument does the musician from Louisiana play? guitar
5. What will be on the show after the 12-year-old guitarist? music videos
“Thanks for joining us on Strange Stuff — sixty seconds of the weirdest radio you’ve ever
heard. At Strange Stuff we’re proud to bring you amazing facts from around the world. Here’s
an odd one. Lots of people have aquariums in their homes, but would you spend a night in
an aquarium? In Florida you can do just that! For about $200 you can spend the night in the
world’s only underwater hotel. And the only way you can get there is by scuba diving. Hope
they have lots of towels on hand. But if you really want an interesting place to stay, try the Ice
Hotel. It’s located above the Arctic Circle and is totally constructed of ice. Even the beds are
blocks of ice! I wonder if they charge you extra for blankets? That wraps up our weekly one
minute of weirdness. Join us next time on Strange Stuff when I’ll tell you about a house that’s
built to look like a UFO.”
1. Is this a radio show or a TV show? radio show How can you tell? The announcer said so.
2. What’s the name of this show? Strange Stuff
3. How long is the show? 60 seconds, 1 minute
4. What’s strange about the first hotel? It’s underwater.
5. Where is it located? Florida
6. About how much does it cost to spend a night there? $200
7. What’s strange about the second hotel? It’s made of ice.
8. Describe the beds in that hotel to me. They’re blocks of ice.
9. What kind of house will you learn about on the next edition of Strange Stuff ? one that’s
built to look like a UFO
10. Which one of the hotels on the show would you rather stay at? Why? Answers will vary.
A radio newscast gives you a lot of information in a short amount of time. A newscast often
consists of these things: top news stories, sports stories, weather, and traffic.
Listen to this newscast carefully and answer the questions.
“The time is 3:00 in the city, and here are your news headlines: A teenager breaks up a
robbery attempt at a convenience store. Businesses downtown get ready for the Memorial
Day Parade. And the Brookfield Zoo welcomes a new arrival; Congo, a baby giraffe, was born
at 6:15 this morning.”
1. What time did this newscast start? 3:00

2. What holiday is approaching? Memorial Day
3. What was the name of the baby giraffe? Congo
“Taking a look at sports, the Bulls won again last night. They easily took care of the
Cleveland Cavaliers in Cleveland. The story wasn’t so good for the Blackhawks, though.
They dropped another close one on the ice to the Boston Bruins. The Blackhawks look to
have their worst year in club history.”
1. Who did the Bulls beat? Cleveland Cavaliers

2. Where was the game held? Cleveland
3. Did the Blackhawks win? no
4. Are the Blackhawks having a winning or a losing season? losing
“And now let’s take a look at traffic. Most of the expressways are clear at this time, but the
rush hour is starting to heat up. Expect the Eisenhower Expressway to back up in the next
hour as people start heading home from work. Remember, roadwork continues on the
Eisenhower for the next six weeks, so you might want to find a different way home.”
1. Is traffic moving slowly or normally right now? normally

2. Why will the Eisenhower Expressway be backed up soon? People will be heading home.
3. Will the roadwork on the Eisenhower Expressway be over soon? no, not for six weeks
“Finally, in weather; it’s been a beautiful fall day in Chicago. Sunny, breezy, and 62 degrees
right now. Tonight it will be chilly with lows in the 40s, then 65 tomorrow with a good chance
of rain in the afternoon. The rest of the week looks cold and cloudy.”
1. What season is it? fall

2. What city are we in? Chicago
3. How will the weather change tomorrow? It will be rainy.
4. Will the weather be nice for the rest of the week? no
Everyday Messages 1
Look carefully at the picture. Listen to the messages and answer the questions.
1. Hannah and her brother Jared need to cross the busy street. What do Hannah and Jared
need to do? cross the busy street
2. They will wait for the "walk" sign to cross the street safely. What will they wait for? Why?
the "walk" sign, so they don't get hit by a car
3. It's important to look both ways before crossing the street. What is it important to do
before crossing a street? look both ways
4. Hannah will hold Jared's hand when they cross the street so they will stay together. What
will Hannah do when she crosses the street? Why? hold Jared's hand, so they stay
together
5. The woman on the bicycle is wearing a helmet. This will protect her head if she falls.
Why is the woman on the bicycle wearing a helmet? to protect her head if she falls
6. The woman is riding her bicycle on the right-hand side of the street to move with traffic.
Where should you ride your bike? on the right-hand side of the street
7. The man who is running can't hear the cars because he is listening to music. What is the
man who is running listening to? music Can he hear the cars? no
8. Hannah and Jared's mom told them not to talk to strangers. Will Hannah and Jared talk
to the people they’ve never seen before? Why? no, because Hannah and Jared don't
know these people
9. Hannah and Jared's mom told them to walk straight home after they get off the bus.
What should Hannah and Jared do now that they've stepped off the bus? walk straight
home
10. Hannah and Jared know their address in case they get lost. Their address is 1025 Main
Street, Apartment 12. What is Hannah and Jared's address? 1025 Main Street,
Apartment 12 Why is it important for them to know their address? in case they get lost
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 1, continued Name __________________________

261
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 2
Listen to each of these classroom job descriptions. Then answer the questions.
1. The zoologist takes care of our hamster. This person must feed the hamster every
morning and make sure it has fresh water.
What does the zoologist do? take care of the hamster
2. The messenger takes and delivers messages to and from the office. This person also
takes attendance each morning.
What does the messenger do? takes and delivers messages to and from the office,
takes attendance each morning
3. The line leader walks in the front of the line when we go to recess and lunch. The line
leader has to wait for everyone to be quiet before we go.
What does the line leader do? waits for everyone to be quiet before leading the class
to recess and lunch
4. The plant monitor waters all the plants on Monday and Friday mornings. This person
also can pull any yellow or brown leaves off the plants.
When does the plant monitor water the plants? Monday and Friday mornings
What else does the plant monitor do? pull any yellow or brown leaves off the plants
5. The equipment manager checks out and collects the balls and jump ropes for recess.
This person needs to check the equipment box each day before school.
What does the equipment manager do? checks out and collects balls and jump ropes
for recess
When does the equipment box need to be checked? every day before school
6. The supplies monitor will hand out any papers that need to go home. This person will
also hand out the crayons and other supplies during art time.
What does the supplies monitor hand out to students? papers that need to go home,
crayons and other supplies during art time
7. The librarian is in charge of our classroom library. This person will check out books and
remind students when books are due back to the classroom.
What two things does the classroom librarian do? check out books and remind
students when books are due back
8. The calendar helper will change the date on the calendar each morning. This person will
lead us in our calendar activities and read the daily schedule.
What does the calendar helper do? change the date on the calendar each morning
What does the calendar helper read? the daily schedule
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 2, continued Name __________________________
Zoologist Messenger Line Leader Plant Monitor

263
Equipment Manager Supplies Monitor Librarian Calendar Helper
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 3
Listen to these phone messages. Listen for who called and who needs the message.
1. Tell Steven his mom called.

Who called? Steven's mom
Who needs the message? Steven
2. Tell Tracy that LaMont called.

Who called? LaMont
Who needs the message? Tracy
3. Mr. Nelson called to talk with Jacob.

Who called? Mr. Nelson
Who needs the message? Jacob
4. Coach Perkins called for Vanessa.

Who called? Coach Perkins
Who needs the message? Vanessa
5. Tell your sister David called.

Who called? David
Who needs the message? your sister
6. Mrs. Hernandez called to tell Mom her package is ready.

Who called? Mrs. Hernandez
Who needs the message? Mom
7. Tell Dad the dentist's office called.

Who called? the dentist's office
Who needs the message? Dad
8. Steven called to tell Ryan basketball practice is cancelled.

Who called? Steven
Who needs the message? Ryan
9. Tell Inez her friend Taylor called to say happy birthday.

Who called? Taylor
Who needs the message? Inez
10. Miranda called for Karen this morning.

Who called? Miranda
Who needs the message? Karen
11. The post office called for Mrs. White.

Who called? the post office
Who needs the message? Mrs. White
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 4
Listen to these phone messages. Listen for who called. Then summarize the message.
1. Alisha called to say happy birthday.

Who called? Alisha
What was the message? Happy birthday.
2. The Donovan family can't come to the party on Saturday.

Who called? The Donovans
What is the message? They can't come to the party on Saturday.
3. Trevor will bring home your assignments since you missed school today.
Who called? Trevor
What is the message? He'll bring home your assignments.
4. Mom will be late getting home from work. Please take the hamburger out of the freezer
by 4:00 so it will thaw.
Who called? Mom
What are you supposed to do? take the hamburger out of the freezer
When? by 4:00
Why? so it will thaw
5. Mark called to tell your brother that hockey practice is rescheduled for Tuesday at 6:30.
Who called? Mark
Who needs the message? your brother
What is the message? Hockey practice is rescheduled for Tuesday at 6:30.
6. Please pick up your package at the post office before 3:00 p.m. today.
Who called? someone from the post office
What are you supposed to pick up? your package
When? before 3:00 today
7. Your neighbor called to say their stove isn't working. They asked if they could come over
to finish cooking their dinner.
Who called? your neighbor
What is the problem? Their stove is broken.
What do they want to do? use your stove to finish cooking their dinner
8. Diandra's mom called to say that Diandra has the chicken pox. Your little sister was
playing at Diandra's house yesterday so she might get them. Please tell your parents.
Who called? Diandra's mom
What is the message? Diandra has the chicken pox.
Who needs to get the message? your parents
Why? because your little sister was playing with Diandra
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 5
Listen to each message and answer the questions.
1. Mom said she'll pick you up at 3:30 instead of 3:00.
Who's the message from? Mom

What's the message? She'll pick you up at 3:30 instead of 3:00.
2. Your friend Kris wants to know if you can spend the night this Saturday.
Who's the message from? Kris

What's the message? Can you spend the night Saturday?
3. Your neighbor called. He found your cat in his garage.

Who called? your neighbor
What is the message? He found your cat in his garage.
4. Kayla called to say the game on Friday is cancelled.
Who called? Kayla

What's the message? Friday's game is cancelled.
5. Erik said to tell you basketball practice will be at 6:00 p.m. instead of 7:00 p.m.
Who's the message from? Erik

What's the message? Basketball practice will be at 6:00 p.m. instead of 7:00 p.m.
6. Children ages 5-10 years can enter the Family Museum Coloring Contest this Saturday at
noon. Entries will be at the museum.
Who's the message for? children ages 5-10

What's the message? They can enter the Family Museum Coloring Contest Saturday
at noon.
7. Your dentist’s office called to remind you about your appointment at 3:00 p.m. this
Tuesday.
Who's the message from? my dentist's office

Who's the message for? me
What's the message? I have an appointment Tuesday at 3:00 p.m.
8. Mr. Guttierez called to tell your dad his order will arrive today at 5:00 p.m.. He can pick it
up any time after that.
Who's the message for? my dad

What's the message? He can pick up his order today after 5:00 p.m.
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 6
Listen to each message and answer the questions.
1. Myleek called. Please pick him up on your way to the movie tonight.
Who's the message from? Myleek
What's the message? Pick him up on the way to the movie tonight.
2. Your cousin Ian called. He'll be here on Wednesday instead of Thursday.

Who's the message from? Ian
What's the message? He’ll be here on Wednesday instead of Thursday.
3. Mrs. Holmes said Phil can't play street hockey after school today. He has to go to a
make-up trumpet lesson.
Who's the message from? Mrs. Holmes
What's the message? Phil can’t play street hockey after school today.
4. School groups are encouraged to enter the Community Pride Day Parade on September
3. The parade begins on River Drive at 10:00 a.m. Call the city office to enter.
Who's the message for? school groups
What's the message? Enter the Community Pride Day Parade.
5. Jenny called to say that she and Stacy are going in on a birthday present for Amanda.
They want to know if you want to pitch in for it, too. Let Jenny know sometime today.
Who's the message from? Jenny
Who's the message for? me
What's the message? Let Jenny know today if I want to go in on a birthday present for
Amanda.
6. Rick said to tell Devon he'll be late for the game. He has to baby-sit his little sister until
his dad gets home. He'll just meet Devon at the game. Tell Devon to save him a seat!
Who's the message from? Rick
Who's the message for? Devon
What's the message? Rick will meet Devon at the game. Devon should save Rick
a seat.
7. Mr. Hansen wants to know if your sister can baby-sit this Saturday night from 7:00 to
10:00. She should call him back before Friday.
Who's the message from? Mr. Hansen
Who's the message for? my sister
What's the message? Can she baby-sit Saturday night?
When should she return his call? before Friday
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 7
Listen carefully to these messages. Then tell me what important information is missing.
1. Please meet Lauri at her house tonight. Don't be late.

What's missing? the time I'm supposed to meet her
2. Andy said not to sign up for that class because the teacher is boring.
What's missing? the name of the class Andy doesn't like
3. Tell him to meet us there by 8:00.

What's missing? who to tell, where to meet
4. Derek says his house is easy to find. It's right by the old park.
What's missing? the name of the old park, Derek's address
5. The vice principal says you must turn it in by Wednesday or you'll have detention.
What's missing? what I'm supposed to turn in
6. School milk prices have increased this year. Please make sure you bring the correct
amount for milk.
What's missing? the price of milk this year
7. Greg's birthday party is at noon at Cheezie Pizza Palace. Hope you can come!
What's missing? the day of the party
8. Meet me there right after school so we don't miss our ride.

What's missing? where I'm supposed to meet you
9. Because of the heat, school will get out early today. Please notify your parents to pick
you up on time.
What's missing? the time school will let out
10. The fifth grade bake sale was a huge success. They made three times more money than
last year. The fourth graders will have to work hard next year to beat this total!
What's missing? the amount the fifth graders made
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 8
Listen carefully to these messages. Then tell me what important information is missing.
1. All students who meet the requirements will receive a special certificate and be allowed
to go on the sixth grade field trip.
What's missing? what the requirements are
2. Today's assembly is sure to be exciting. This group has performed all over the country,
amazing their audiences everywhere! Get ready for a fun, educational performance!
What's missing? who is performing, what they do
3. Mr. Miller will not be at school due to his back surgery. Until his return, you will have a
substitute teacher. I expect you to show the same respect to her as you would to any
other teacher.
What's missing? the substitute teacher's name; when Mr. Miller will return
4. If this happens again, the office will have to perform random book bag and locker checks
to ensure safety.
What's missing? what happened
5. It was a tough competition, but they did it! They represented us well at the state finals
and we congratulate them!
What's missing? who competed, what the competition was
6. The Hoover students are having a paper drive. Please help by bringing your old
newspapers.
What's missing? when and where to bring newspapers
7. Please take out your book and turn to page 32. We'll take turns reading the story aloud
before answering the questions.
What's missing? which book to take out
8. Be sure to bring it tomorrow for the class field trip. If you don't have one, you won't be
able to go.
What's missing? what to bring
9. You need to take your cold medicine three times today. She'll give it to you when you get
to school, after lunch, and before afternoon recess.
What's missing? who will give the medicine
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 9
Listen to these school messages and answer the questions.
1. Kevin Johnson, please report to the office after spelling.
Who is the message for? Kevin Johnson

What needs to happen? He needs to report to the office after spelling.
2. All permission slips for Friday's field trip must be turned in this Wednesday.
Who is this message for? students

What needs to happen? When? Permission slips for Friday's field trip must be turned
in Wednesday.
3. Congratulations to Mr. Washington's class on being named Class of the Week. They will
get to leave five minutes early for lunch today.
Who is being congratulated? Why? Mr. Washington's class, Class of the Week
What do they get? to leave five minutes early for lunch today
4. The band will play three songs at today's assembly. All band members report to the band
room by 1:00 p.m.
Who needs this message? band members

What do they need to do? report to the band room by 1:00 p.m.
5. Due to yesterday's storm, Art in the Park is cancelled today. It will be held next Tuesday.
What is cancelled? Why? Art in the Park, the rain

When is it rescheduled? next Tuesday
6. The magazine fund drive ends tomorrow. All orders for magazines must be turned in by
Friday at noon. Extra order forms are available in the office.
What is the message about? magazine fund drive

What needs to happen? All orders for magazines must be turned in by Friday at noon.
7. Two stink bombs were found yesterday in the boys’ rest room near the science lab.
Because of this incident, all rest rooms by the science lab will be locked for the rest of the
week.
What happened? Two stink bombs were found yesterday in the boys’ rest room near
the science lab.
What is the message? All rest rooms by the science lab will be closed the rest of
the week.
Everyday Messages
Everyday Messages 10
Listen to these school messages and answer the questions.
1. A backpack has been lost. It's green canvas with yellow and red trim. It was last seen by
the swings on the playground. Please notify the office if you have any information.
What is lost? backpack

Describe it. green canvas with yellow and red trim
Where was it lost? by the swings on the playground
What are you supposed to do? notify the school office if you have any information
2. Locker clean up will be the last week in May. Please empty all papers, posters, and extra
items out of your locker. Only book bags, school books, and band instruments may be
stored in your locker the last week of school.
What is the message about? locker clean up

What do you need to do? clean all papers, posters, and extra items out of my locker
What can be stored? book bags, school books, band instruments
3. Two of our fifth graders made the All-State Elementary Chorus. They will get to sing at
the White House this spring. Congratulations to Mindy Meyers and Kareem Banks.
What is the message about? All-State Elementary Chorus

Who is it about? Mindy Meyers, Kareem Banks
What will they do? sing at the White House this spring
4. Construction is about to begin on the new science lab. Because of this, all students are
asked to enter through the main lobby doors. Do not use the west entrance until further
notice.
What is the message? Enter through the main lobby doors until further notice.
Who needs this message? Why? all students, The west entrance will be blocked until
the new science lab is constructed.
5. All students with perfect attendance will meet at noon today to go out to lunch with
Principal Davis. Please bring your hall pass and certificates with you. We will return to
school at 1:30.
Who is the message for? students with perfect attendance

What are they doing? When? going out to lunch with Principal Davis today at noon
What do they need to bring? hall pass, certificates
Everyday Messages
Listen to each message. Then answer the questions.
1. The gym floor is being cleaned today. All PE classes are cancelled.
What's happening? The gym floor is being cleaned today.
What's the message? All PE classes are cancelled.
2. The kindergarten classes are missing four jump ropes. Please check to see if they might
be in your classroom.
What's the message? Kindergarten classes are missing four jump ropes.
What needs to happen? Other students should look in their classrooms for them.
3. Volleyball tryouts are tomorrow after school. You must have a signed form from
your doctor.
What's the message? Volleyball tryouts are tomorrow after school.
What do you need to bring? signed form from my doctor
4. The girls’ basketball team lost a thriller of a game on Thursday night. After double
overtime, it was Westbrook 66, Bayside 64.
What's the message about? girls’ basketball
What was the score? Westbrook 66, Bayside 64
5. The sixth-grade boys’ softball team will leave for the game right after school. Please
report to Coach Martinez in the office.
Who needs this message? sixth-grade boys’ softball team
What do they need to do? meet Coach Martinez in the office after school
6. The annual Teacher-Student Softball Game was lots of fun! We raised over $400 for new
computers. The teachers continued their winning streak beating the students by a score
of 9 to 7.
What's the message about? Teacher-Student Softball Game
What happened? $400 was raised for new computers; teachers won.
What was the score? teachers 9, students 7
7. The Tri-City Walk-A-Thon is this Saturday. Get family and friends to sponsor you! All the
proceeds will benefit the Helping Hands Charities. Let's beat our goal of $2,000. See
you Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at the ball field!
What's the message about? Tri-City Walk-A-Thon
What is the goal? to raise more than $2,000
Where does the event start? ball field
When is the event? Saturday at 9:00 a.m.
Everyday Messages
Listen to these messages on the school bulletin board.
1. Baby-sitter. I'm available to baby-sit. I'm very reliable and love children. Call Julie at
589-6262.
Who's the message from? Julie
What's the message? She can baby-sit.
What's the phone number? 589-6262
2. Lost. Cocker spaniel puppy. Tan with white patches. Wearing a red collar. Answers to
"Tucker." Last seen at the corner of White Post Street and 12th Avenue. Reward.
What's the message? lost cocker spaniel puppy
Describe the missing dog. tan with white patches, wearing red collar
What's his name? Tucker
Where was he last seen? corner of White Post Street and 12th Avenue
3. Found. A pair of silver earrings. Found in the girls’ rest room by the band room. You can
claim them at the school office. You must be able to describe them.
What's the message? A pair of silver earrings was found.
Where was the item found? girls’ rest room
What are the instructions? Go to the school office; you must describe them.
4. Join a school club! Several school clubs will be starting this week. They meet Tuesday
and Thursday after school for one hour. You can choose from Computer Club, School
Newspaper, Science Scavengers, or Music Makers.
What's the message about? the start of several school clubs
When do they meet? Tuesday and Thursday after school
What are the choices? Computer Club, School Newspaper, Science Scavengers,
Music Makers
5. Earn extra credit! The school needs help installing the new playground equipment this
Saturday. Interested students can sign up in the office. All students who help will be
given one extra credit to be used in the class of their choice.
What's the message about? installing the new playground equipment
Summarize the details. Students interested in helping install the new playground
equipment this Saturday should sign up in the office. One extra credit will be given.
6. School Spirit! Last chance to order school T-shirts, sweatshirts, and caps. Your order
must be in by Friday. These look cool with the school colors and logo on them. Don't
miss out. Place your order today!
What's the message about? ordering school T-shirts, sweatshirts, caps
Summarize the details. This Friday is the last day to order school T-shirts, sweatshirts,
and caps.
Everyday Messages
Listen to these messages about nutrition and health. Then summarize each message.
1. The Daily Food Guide Pyramid tells you how many servings of different food groups you
need each day.
What describes the food groups? Daily Food Guide Pyramid

What information does it give? the number of servings of different food groups to eat
each day
2. The pyramid suggests you eat two servings daily from the meat, milk, and fruit groups.
Which food groups were mentioned? meat, milk, fruit

How many servings of each should you have per day? two
3. You should eat three servings of vegetables and four to six servings from the grain group.
Which food groups were mentioned? vegetables, grains

How many servings of each should you have per day? three servings of vegetables,
four to six servings of grains
4. The food pyramid also has an "others" category. This includes foods high in fats and oils
like snack foods. The daily food guide suggests very limited quantities of these.
What category is mentioned? others

What foods are in this category? foods high in fats and oils
How much should you eat of these? limited quantities
5. Most snack foods like potato chips and candy bars are high in fat. That's what makes
them taste so good! Eating too many of these types of foods on a daily basis can cause
future health problems.
What snack foods are mentioned? potato chips, candy bars

Why do they taste good? They're high in fat.
Why shouldn't you eat too many of these? may cause future health problems
6. Studies have shown that eating a good breakfast gives you more energy to start your
day. Skipping breakfast can make you feel tired and unable to focus on your schoolwork.
What's the message about? eating breakfast

Why is it important? gives you more energy to start your day
7. There's an old saying, "You are what you eat." Remember that what you put into your
body is important to your health today and in the future.
What's the saying? You are what you eat.
Everyday Messages
___________________________________________________________________________
Listen to this story and answer the questions.
The Surprise
What do you think will happen in this story? Why?
Adam Dean was seven years old. He ALWAYS wore his favorite red baseball cap, and he ate
a peanut butter and banana sandwich for lunch every day.
What color was Adam's favorite hat?

What did Adam eat for lunch every day?
Adam was also crazy about dogs! He liked big dogs, little dogs, dogs with long fur or short
fur, even dogs with spots. Adam read all the books about dogs in the school library. He even
covered the walls of his bedroom with dog posters!
What does "crazy about dogs" mean?

What did Adam have on his bedroom walls?
But, Adam couldn't have a dog of his own because his dad was allergic to them. Mr. Dean's
eyes itched and he started sneezing whenever he was around dogs.
Why didn't Adam have a dog?

What happened to Mr. Dean if he was around dogs?
Mr. Dean felt bad. He knew how much Adam loved dogs, and he wished Adam could have
one. Mr. Dean thought and thought. Then he had an idea!
Why did Mr. Dean feel bad?

What do you think his idea is?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
One Saturday, Mr. Dean drove to the hardware store and got some wood and nails. He spent
all morning working in the garage. When Adam asked his dad what he was doing, Mr. Dean
just smiled and said, "It's a surprise, Adam. You'll find out soon."
What did Mr. Dean buy at the hardware store?
What do you think Mr. Dean is doing in the garage?
Later, after lunch, Mr. Dean said it was time for Adam to find out about his surprise. He told
Adam to get in the car — they were going to the humane society.
What is the humane society?
What do you think Adam's surprise is now?
When they got to the humane society, Mr. Dean told Adam he could pick out a dog to take
home. The dog would have to stay outside, but he'd have a beautiful new doghouse to keep
him dry and warm. Adam jumped up and down he was so excited!
Where would Adam's dog have to stay?
Adam looked at all the dogs. He wanted each one, but he decided on a beautiful black puppy.
The puppy licked Adam's face and followed him everywhere. Adam decided to name him
Shadow. Shadow became Adam's new best friend!
Which dog did Adam choose?
Why do you think Adam named his dog "Shadow"?
Story Comprehension Questions
1. What was this story about?

2. How does Mr. Dean feel now that Adam has a dog of his own? Why?
3. Tell me about a time when someone surprised you with something.
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Jake's Loose Tooth
What do you think this story will be about? How can you tell?
Jake had a wiggly front tooth. He could wiggle it with his finger. He could even wiggle it with
his tongue. But the loose tooth wouldn't come out.
Why do you think Jake's tooth was loose?

Why did Jake want his loose tooth to come out?
Jake tried jumping up and down, but nothing happened. He stood on his head and wiggled
the tooth with his tongue, but it wouldn't come out.
What else could Jake do to try to get his tooth out?

Is it a good idea to wiggle a loose tooth with your tongue? Why?
Jake took his dog, Chico, outside to play so he could take his mind off his loose tooth.
What does it mean if you “take your mind off” something?
Jake tossed a ball to Chico, and Chico scurried to catch it.
All of a sudden, Jake tossed the ball a little too high. It went over the fence, and Chico
squeezed under the fence to get the ball. Chico couldn't see the ball, so he kept on running.
"Come back, Chico!" called Jake, but Chico kept on running.
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
How do you think Jake feels? Why?

What could Jake do now?
Jake hurried through the gate and ran after Chico. He ran and ran until he was hot and
sweaty, but he couldn't find Chico.
"This has been one very bad day so far," Jake told himself. "First a wiggly tooth that won't
come out, and now Chico ran away."
Slowly and sadly, Jake walked home.
Why was Jake having a bad day?

What could Jake do to take his mind off his bad day?
Guess who was waiting for Jake at home? Right, Chico!
How do you think Jake felt when he saw Chico? Why?
Jake hugged Chico and said, "I'm so glad you came back! Let's go inside for a snack."
In the kitchen, Jake's mom looked at him and smiled. His sister even smiled at him as she
said, "You lost your tooth!"
How could they tell Jake had lost his tooth?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Jake moved his tongue to the loose tooth, but now there was a hole in its place. His loose
tooth was gone!
Why was Jake surprised?
Jake hugged Chico and smiled. "I guess my tooth wanted to come out by itself!" he said.
"Why don't you write a note to the tooth fairy to explain what happened?" asked his mom.
And that's exactly what Jake did!

2. How old do you think Jake is? Why?
3. Have you ever had a wiggly tooth? Tell what happened.
4. Draw a picture of Jake's face before he lost his tooth. Then draw a picture of his face
after he lost his tooth.
5. Pretend you are Jake and you're going to write a note to the tooth fairy. Tell me what you
would write.
6. If Jake didn't write a note, would the tooth fairy still come to visit him? Why?
7. How do you know if the tooth fairy has come to visit?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Frog and His Big Mouth
What do you think this story will be about?

What does Frog look like?
One day, a long, long time ago, there were two young children named Hector and Maria.
There was also a big woods behind where they lived. Hector and Maria loved to go exploring
in the woods.
What do you think Hector and Maria saw as they explored the woods?
"You know what, Hector?" said Maria. "Wouldn't it be fun if we could catch one of the forest
animals?"
"Oh, yes!" said Hector. "And we could keep it as our pet! But which animal should we
catch?"
"One not very scary," said Maria.
"And not too hairy, either," said Hector.
What animals might be too scary?

What animals might be too hairy?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
"I know what we should do," said Maria.
"What's that?" asked Hector.
"Let's build a cage," said Maria, "to catch our pet."
What things do you think the children will need to make a cage?
So Maria and Hector gathered sticks and tied them together to make a cage. Then they put
some berries and grass inside. Hector added a candy bar he had been saving in his pocket.
What animals eat berries and grasses?

Do you think wild animals like candy bars? Why?
Then Hector and Maria left the cage in the middle of the woods and went home for supper.
They could hardly sleep that night; they were so excited about catching a pet!
Early the next morning, even before the sun came up, the two friends ran into the dark woods
to see if they had trapped anything.
Much to their surprise, there in the cage was an animal that wasn't scary and wasn't hairy —
just as they had wished. Instead, this animal was small and wet and slimy and green, with
tiny eyes and great big hind legs. But most surprising of all, it had a really big mouth!
What animal do you think they trapped?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
"Look!" shrieked Maria and Hector. "We've trapped a slimy, wet, green frog! And look at what
a big mouth he has!"
When Hector and Maria lifted the trap, Frog hopped and jumped away as fast as he could.
How do you think Hector and Maria felt when Frog hopped away?
Now Frog was very curious. He wanted to know all about everyone. The first animal he met
was a furry little animal with a big flat tail and big front teeth.
What animal do you think Frog met first?
"Ribbit (that means ‘hello’ in frog-talk)," shouted Frog. You see, Frog always shouted because
he had such a big mouth. "What are you and what do you eat?"
The furry little animal said, "I am a beaver. And I like to eat bark and twigs and grasses and
roots, too."
"So that's why you have such big teeth!" shouted Frog. And he hopped and jumped on his
way to see what else he could see.
The very next animal Frog met was a little thing with black fur and a white stripe down his
back. He was just coming out of his home in a hollow tree.
What animal do you think Frog met second?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
"Ribbit!" shouted Frog. "What are you and what do you eat?"
"I'll have you know," said the animal holding his tail over his back, "I'm a skunk and if I were
you I'd leave right now!"
What do you think the skunk was getting ready to do?
"What a gross smell you have!" shouted Frog. And he hopped and jumped on his way to see
what else he could see.
Now the last animal Frog met was long and green with a great big smile. He was rolling and
slithering along on his belly.
What animal does Frog meet last?
"Ribbit!" shouted Frog. "What are you and what do you eat?"
And the long, green animal smiled a great, big smile and said, "I'm so glad you asked that.
You see, I'm a crocodile and I just LOVE to eat Big-Mouthed Frogs! Have you seen any Big-
Mouthed Frogs around?"
How do you think Frog is feeling right now?

What do you think Frog is going to do?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Frog's eyes got very, very big and his big mouth got very, very small and then he said through
his tightly closed mouth, "No sir! I've never ever seen a Big-Mouthed Frog around here!"
Then Frog hopped and jumped as fast as he could back to the cage that Hector and Maria
had built.
Why do you think Frog hopped back to the cage?

Why didn't he go somewhere else?
And in that cage, Frog lived happily ever after. You see, he had learned a very important
lesson: it sometimes pays to keep a big mouth shut!
In your own words, explain what Frog had learned.
1. Do you think this story is true? Why?

2. What kinds of places do you like to explore? Why?
3. What kind of pet would you want to catch? Why?
4. If you were Frog, what would you have done when you met the crocodile?
5. Tell me about a time when it's better to keep a secret. When is it better to tell everything
you know?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
The King with Dirty Feet - A Folktale from India
Why do you think a king might have dirty feet?

What do you think will happen in this story? Why?
Once upon a time, a very long time ago, there was a king in India. He lived in a dusty village
by a river. He was a very special king.
What do you think was special about the king?
The king was a good ruler. He was very kind to everyone. He made sure everyone had
enough work to do, food to eat, and clothes to wear. There was only one thing about the king
that people didn't like. He didn't keep himself clean. The good king hated taking a bath.
Why do you think the king hated taking a bath?
The king had not taken a bath for more than a week. He hadn't washed himself for more than
a whole month. He hadn't washed himself for one whole year!
What would happen if you never washed or took a bath?
The good king smelled horrible. In fact, he stank! He smelled worse than rotten garbage on
a hot summer day.
What is the worst smell you can think of?

Do you think the good king smelled as bad as that?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Of course, no one said anything to the good king. No one wanted to embarrass him. But the
king noticed that no one wanted to spend much time with him. Finally, the good king told his
servants, "I stink. I stink so much, I can't even stand my own smell. I'll have to take a bath."
Why did the king think taking a bath would take care of his smell?
What other way could the king change the way he smelled?
The good king's servants took him down to the river for his bath. They gave him all the things
he needed to get clean.
What do you think they gave the king?

Why didn't the servants use a bathtub?
The good king washed himself all over three times. He shampooed his long hair until it was
squeaky clean. He scrubbed his fingernails and his toenails until all the dirt was gone. He
brushed his teeth until they were pearly white again. Then he played for a while with his toy
boats and his rubber froggy.
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Finally, the good king was finished with his bath. "That wasn't so bad after all," he said. As
the king stepped onto the dry, dusty land, he looked at his feet. "Oh, nuts, my feet are still
dirty," said the king.
Why were the king's feet dirty?

What should the king do next?
"I must go back in the river and clean my feet," said the king. And that's exactly what he did.
But just as soon as he stepped onto the dusty ground again, his feet were dirty. The king was
furious! He sent for his servant Sabu.
"Sabu!" shouted the king, "I have had a good bath. I am very clean, but the ground is dirty.
Clean the earth so the dust is gone and my feet will stay clean."
"Yes, good king," Sabu sighed.
Why did Sabu sigh?
"You have three days to do your job," said the king. "If you fail, ZAT!"
"ZAT, your highness?" asked Sabu. "What is ZAT?"
"That's the sound of your head being chopped off!" exclaimed the king. He had never been
so angry in all his life.
Was the king being fair to Sabu?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
So Sabu went to his favorite thinking place to do his finest thinking. "The best way to clean
up dust and dirt is to sweep," Sabu thought. "I'll ask all the villagers to sweep and sweep until
all the dust is gone."
What do you think will happen?
Everyone swept for one whole day. There were clouds of dust everywhere! People bumped
into cows and each other. They tripped into trash heaps. "Sabu!" roared the king. "I asked
you to get rid of the dust, not to sweep it into the air. You have just two days left, or ZAT!"
Sabu went back to his thinking place. After a long while, he thought, "When something gets
dirty, you wash it. We need to wash the dirt." So he asked all the villagers to fill their buckets
and wash the dirt until it was clean.
Was washing the dirt a good idea? Why?

Splish, splash, splish, splash, everyone poured water on the dirt to wash it. Before long, the
village was a giant swimming pool. People floated about and played Marco Polo.
"Sabu!" roared the king from the top of the castle roof. "This is nonsense! I asked you to get
rid of the dust, not to make our village a swimming pool. You have one day left, or ZAT!"
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
Sabu went back to his thinking place. He put his head in his hands and thought very hard.
"What if I use a fishing pole to hoist the king out of the river after his bath? And what if I hang
him on a clothesline to dry? No, his feet would still get dusty when he walked on the ground.
Unless . . . . That's it!" he exclaimed. "We'll cover the dirt with rugs everywhere. But where
would we get enough rugs? Aha! Everyone has leather and a needle and thread. We will
make a leather rug to cover the dirt!" So he asked all the villagers to stitch together a giant
leather rug that totally covered all the ground.
The villagers stitched and stitched and stitched all day. When they finished, Sabu brought the
king outside to try the leather rug. "Splendid!" the king said. "Great job, everyone! This will
keep us all clean and comfortable!"
How do you think Sabu felt? Why?

What do you think about the leather rug? Why?
All at once, a small child stepped forward and said, "Your majesty, how will we grow our food
now that the gardens are covered? And how will our animals have sweet grass to eat?"
"Hmm, that's true," frowned the king. "What do you suggest, child?"
What would you suggest if you were the child? Why?
Story Comprehension
___________________________________________________________________________
The child took a piece of chalk and drew an outline on the leather around each of the king's
feet. "Sabu, please use your sharp scissors to cut the leather on these lines." Sabu did.
"Now," said the child, "use these laces to tie the leather onto the king's feet." Sabu did.
Then the child lifted the leather rug away from the king so the dusty earth was bare again.
The good king looked at his feet wrapped in leather and frowned. Then he walked a few
steps on the bare ground. "Excellent!" beamed the king. "My feet stay clean, and we can
grow grass and food! I order all people to wear leather on their feet from now on!"
What had the child invented?
That was the very first time anyone wore shoes. They became so popular, we still wear them
today.
ZIP, ZAP, that's the end of ZAT!

2. How often do you think the good king washed himself after he got his shoes? Why?
3. Would you rather take a bath or a shower? Why?
4. Some places don't have enough water for people to take a bath. How do you think
people stay clean there?
5. What question would you like to ask the king? How do you think he would answer?
6. What question would you like to ask Sabu? How do you think he would answer?
7. What would be another good title for this story?
8. If you were the king, what would you do to reward the child who invented shoes?
Story Comprehension
Animals and Their Colors
What do you think this story will be about?
A long time ago, a little bear lived on an iceberg. It was very cold there. The bear had thick
white fur to keep him warm.
What is an iceberg?
Do you think it was always cold where the bear lived? Why?
One day, the bear saw a beautiful rainbow in the sky. He looked at the pretty colors. He
wondered what it would be like if he changed his white fur into fur that was a different color.
When do you usually see a rainbow?

Why do you think the bear wanted to change the color of his fur?
The bear talked to his friend, the seal. The seal wanted to change her color, too.
What color do you think the seal was?

Why do you think the seal wanted to change her color, too?
The bear and the seal decided to find places where animals were bright colors.
Where do you think the bear and the seal were going?
They left the iceberg. The sun was hot during the day, so they traveled at night.
Why did the bear and the seal travel at night?

What do you think it was like traveling at night?
After a few days, the bear and the seal met a boa constrictor who wanted to go with them.
The boa constrictor wanted to change her color, too.
What color are boa constrictors?

Why do you think the boa constrictor wanted to change her color?
Story Comprehension
The bear, the seal, and the boa constrictor continued on their trip. They saw many things
they had never seen before. It was all very interesting.
What are some things you think the travelers saw?
Then they met an alligator. The alligator had big teeth. The alligator was tired of being gray,
so he wanted to go with the bear, the seal, and the boa constrictor to change his color.
How do you think the bear felt when he saw the alligator's big teeth?
The travelers ended up near a jungle where they met a parrot with many brightly-colored
feathers. They asked the parrot how he had become so beautiful. The parrot said that he
had been born with colors to match the flowers in the jungle.
What colors do you think were on the parrot?
The next day, the bear rubbed red berries all over his fur until he was red. The seal found a
pond full of orange mud. She rolled in it until she was covered with the orange mud. The
alligator rolled in some yellow flowers. The boa constrictor rolled in some purple mushrooms
until she was purple.
How do you think the animals looked with their new colors?
The animals were happy to have their new colors. They thought they looked beautiful. When
they saw the parrot again, he told them they needed to think again about changing their
colors.
Why did the parrot think the bear, the seal, the boa constrictor, and the alligator shouldn't
have changed their colors?
The parrot explained that his colors helped him when he wanted to hide from danger in the
jungle. His colors matched the bright colors of the jungle flowers. The parrot wanted to know
where a red bear, an orange seal, a yellow alligator, and a purple boa constrictor would hide
when they were home again.
What kind of danger would the parrot hide from in the jungle?
Do you think the parrot was right about the animals and their new colors? Why?
Story Comprehension
The bear, the seal, the boa constrictor, and the alligator thought about what the parrot said.
They realized that the parrot was right, so they cleaned themselves up in the river. They
watched as their pretty colors floated away.
How do you think the animals got clean in the river?
Then the alligator said good-bye and headed for his home. The bear and the seal dropped
the boa constrictor off at her home and continued on their trip, back to the iceberg.
Do you think it was hard for the alligator and the boa constrictor to say good-bye to the
bear and the seal? Why?
Soon the bear and the seal were home. When the seal said good-bye and went under the
water, the bear couldn't see him. It was a good thing that he wasn't orange anymore.
Why was it good that the seal wasn't orange anymore?
The bear was happy to be home. When he looked at himself in the water, he wondered why
he ever wanted to change the color of his beautiful fur!

2. At the beginning of this story, do you think the animals were happy with how they looked?
Why?
3. How long do you think it took the animals to make their trip?
4. Would the animals' new colors have stayed on them while they were in the water going
home? Why?
5. What do you think would have happened to the bear if he had stayed red?
6. What did you learn from this story?
Story adapted from "The Animals Who Changed Their Colors" by Pascale Allamand. English version by
Elizabeth Watson Taylor. Weekly Reader Children's Book Club, 1979. New York: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard
Company, A Division of William Morrow & Co., Inc.
Story Comprehension
Jefferson Davis McDaniel
Jefferson Davis McDaniel, known simply as Jeff, was a curious sixth-grader. He was
especially curious about people. In his twelve years of life he had figured out things that
make people angry, such as stealing, not sharing, and saying mean things to others. He had
also figured out how to get what he wanted from his parents by being helpful around the
apartment, taking care of his little sister, and always coming home right after school.
How old was Jeff?

What was he curious about?
What had he figured out?
Jefferson's friends thought he was a little weird, but kind of interesting, too, because he was
always asking them questions . . . questions like, "What does it mean when time flies?" or "Do
you think what happened in Jurassic Park could ever be real?"
See what I mean about being a little strange? Why didn't Jeff just ask twelve-year-old
questions like, "Do you like to play soccer?" or "What's your favorite band?"
Why do you think Jefferson asked unusual questions?

Why do people ask questions?
So, anyway, as I said, his friends thought Jeff was kind of wacky, but interesting. Now, it
just so happened that, recently, Jeff was doing interviews with all kinds of people about
happiness. Jeff wanted to know what happiness meant. He wanted to figure it out so that
he could help a friend who was very sad all the time.
Who was Jeff interviewing about happiness?

Why did he want to know what happiness is?
He asked his best friend, Amanda, what she thought happiness was. Amanda thought for a
minute and said, "Happiness is knowing that your best friend likes to hear your opinions and
ideas. That's why I like you."
"Hmm," thought Jeff. "I always thought people thought I was a pest for asking too many
questions."
Who is Amanda?
What did Amanda think about happiness?
What does she like about Jeff?
Story Comprehension
Jeff asked his grandmother, who loved to play “Canasta,” what she thought happiness was.
Grandmother said in her strong voice, "Why, Jefferson, what an interesting question. I believe
happiness is feeling good about doing kind deeds and also about playing cards every
Tuesday with your best friends."
"I see," said Jeff, thinking about all the good things his grandmother had done in her life.
What is “Canasta”?
What did Grandmother think about happiness?
Would you like Grandmother? Why?
Still not having enough information about happiness, Jeff decided to ask the seventh-grader
he rode the bus with, Murray. Murray was a burly dude who constantly chewed gum and said
ain't. He wasn't well-liked in school, but he was a great in-line skater which made him popular
enough. One day on the bus Jeff asked, "Hey, Murray, what is happiness?"
"Huh?" said Murray.
"Happiness . . . you know . . . what makes people, like, cool about stuff?"
Who is Murray?
What do you think he looks like? How can you tell?
What made Murray popular?
"Geez, Jefferson-Weirdo, you ask the stupidest questions. Like, I don't know what happiness
is. Maybe it's, like, when your mom brings home pizza or you win the Muskegon Skate
Award. Geez, man, I don't know."
But Jeff thought Murray DID know because he bothered to answer him, which he usually
didn't do because Murray thought Jeff was a nerd.
What did Murray think happiness is?

What did Murray think about Jefferson?
Still not satisfied that he'd done enough research, Jefferson went on the Internet to ask
people there what happiness is. Here are some of the answers he received:
Happiness is a warm brownie and a cold glass of milk.

Happiness is when you smile more than you frown.
Happiness is when you achieve something you've been working hard for . . . like getting a
C in math.
Happiness is when the guy you like likes you, too.
Story Comprehension
Happiness is not having to go to the movies with your parents anymore.
Happiness is getting your own TV.
Happiness is knowing what makes you happy.
Where did Jeff find more answers about happiness?

What are three of the answers about happiness Jeff received over the Internet?
Do you think the Internet is a good place to find answers to questions? Why?
"Well," thought Jeff. "I guess I'll go share my research with my sad friend. Maybe it'll cheer
him up for good."
Jeff walked straight home, went to the bathroom, and looked in the mirror. "Hey, dude, what's
your problem? You have a lot to be happy about. You have a best friend who likes to share
her opinions and ideas with you. You have a cool grandmother who has done kind things all
her life. Murray may think you're a nerd, but he DID talk to you and actually even answered
your question. And, people on the Internet sound like they know what makes them happy.
So, what's your beef? SMILE for Pete's sake!"
Who is Jeff's sad friend?

What three things did Jeff tell him?
Jeff looked in the mirror again. Slowly, a grin began to tug at the corners of his mouth.
"Geez," he thought to himself, "it shouldn't be so hard to be happy. I think I'll call grandmother
and challenge her to a game of ‘Canasta.’ Winner takes all . . . smiles, that is!"
Why do you think Jeff started to smile?

Why is it hard for some people to be happy?
What does the expression "winner takes all" mean?

3. How do you feel about kids at your school who do different things?
4. What would you say to someone who was sad?
5. What do you think happiness is?
6. Why do you think people get sad sometimes?
7. Are you ever sad? What do you do to make yourself feel better?
21-03-10
Story Comprehension

No Glamour Auditory-Processing

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Skill Area: Auditory Processing

Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.

All of our products are copyrighted to

Any other reproduction or distribution

This spirited group of writers from LinguiSystems collaborated on

Illustrations: Margaret Warner

Following Directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Main Idea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

News Comprehension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Radio/TV Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235

Everyday Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260

No-Glamour Auditory Processing 3 Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.

• 10-minute take home assignments

Finally, we hope you find No-Glamour Auditory Processing comprehensive. This

Carolyn, Paul, Lauri, Barb, Karen, Rosemary, Linda, Kelly, Nancy

No-Glamour Auditory Processing 5 Copyright © 1998 LinguiSystems, Inc.

Answer yes or no to each question.

2. Do fish swim? yes

6. Is sugar sweet? yes

7. Do legs bend? yes

10. Does a baby cry? yes

11. Can you shut a door? yes

12. Does a chair have wings? no

13. Is the moon round? yes

14. Does a fly use a spoon? no

15. Do you blow out a candle? yes

16. Does a balloon pop? yes

17. Is water dry? no

19. Can you comb a picture? no

20. Does a train fly? no

21. Can you wear a belt? yes

22. Can a rash itch? yes

23. Does a bell sing? no

24. Is a hot dog angry? no

25. Does a phone ring? yes

Answer yes or no to each question.

1. Does a turkey say “moo”? no

2. Can water boil? yes

3. Does a book have pages? yes

4. Can you pop corn? yes

5. Does a lemon brush? no

6. Can a street sleep? no

7. Is a kitten young? yes

9. Can a clock have hands? yes

10. Does a pencil pull? no

11. Does an elephant have a tail? yes

12. Do your eyes chew? no

13. Can you save money? yes

14. Can a spoon rip? no

15. Does a tiger have stripes? yes

16. Does a window stretch? no

17. Is a quarter worth 50 cents? no

19. Does a duck quack? yes

20. Is a ribbon thirsty? no

21. Is a bridge ripe? no

22. Can you wiggle a finger? yes

23. Does a mailbox have water? no

24. Is a lime a vehicle? no

25. Can a snail move? yes

Tell me if each sentence is true or false (not true).

1. A lion has wheels. false

Tell me if each sentence is true or false (not true).

1. A computer has a keyboard. true

Answer these questions.