Characters
This animal is the main character of the story.
snapping turtle
Minn begins her journey near the headwaters of this major river.
Mississippi River
Minn must learn to do this again after recovering from her wound.
swim
Minn’s first major problem is caused by this object
bullet
The story teaches readers about the plants and animals living in this large part of the country.
Mississippi River region
This is the reason Minn must recover before beginning her journey.
she is injured by a bullet?
Minn’s home river flows into this large body of water.
Gulf of Mexico
Minn travels downstream doing this slow movement through the water.
drifting or paddling
Minn faces challenges from these natural hunters.
predators
Minn’s story helps students understand this science topic about how animals survive.
adaptation
These people help Minn get back into the water after her injury.
the boys who find her and care for her
The river changes as Minn travels because of these geographic features.
bends, cliffs, rocks, or sandbars
Minn sometimes rests here to stay safe.
river bottom or mud
Storms and fast currents make the river dangerous because of this physical force.
strong water flow or the current
The author uses Minn’s journey to show how rivers do this over long distances.
change or shape the land
This type of expert studies Minn and other animals along the river.
scientist / naturalist
Minn passes through this type of area where the river is narrow and quiet.
small stream or upper channel
Minn’s journey is sometimes hard because of these human obstacles.
boats, pollution, dams, or fishing dangers
Minn must avoid this type of trap people leave on the river.
fishing lines or nets
The text structure mixes facts and storytelling, making the book this genre.
informational fiction
Minn’s size, shell, and habits help scientists learn her ____
her history or life story
Many plants and animals Minn sees live in this type of ecosystem
freshwater / river ecosystem
Minn’s long trip helps people understand how animals do this across large areas.
migrate or travel
Minn survives challenges because her shell gives her this advantage.
protection
Minn’s journey shows how all living things are connected to their ____
environment or habitat