Story Sleuths
(RL 4.1, RL 4.2, RL 4.3)
(RL 4.1, RL 4.2, RL 4.3)
What is one detail that helps you understand the main idea of a story?
Character actions or important events
What is the difference between prose and poetry?
Prose is written in paragraphs; poetry uses lines and stanzas, often with rhythm or rhyme.
What does the word gigantic most likely mean? Use clues in the sentence: "The gigantic statue towered above the town square."
Very large or huge
What is one way to find the main idea of a nonfiction passage?
Look at the title, headings, and repeated ideas
What kind of structure is used when events are told in order?
Chronological order
What does it mean to make an inference while reading?
A logical guess based on evidence and your own knowledge
Name two parts of a drama.
Cast of characters, dialogue, stage directions, setting, scenes
If a character is described as having Herculean strength, what does that mean?
They are very strong, like the mythical hero Hercules.
What’s the difference between a detail and a main idea?
A main idea is what the text is mostly about; a detail supports or explains it.
What is the purpose of a compare and contrast structure in nonfiction?
To show how two things are alike and different
Summarize a story in 1–2 sentences. What 4 things should be included?
Main characters, setting, problem, and solution
How can you tell a story is written in first-person point of view?
It uses words like “I” and “my,” and the narrator is a character in the story.
How can context clues help you understand a new word?
By using the words or sentences around the unknown word.
Why do authors include specific dates and steps in a historical or technical text?
To explain what happened, when, and why
What is the difference between a firsthand and secondhand account?
Firsthand is told by someone who was there; secondhand is retold by someone else.
Describe a character using details from a story (e.g., thoughts, actions, or dialogue).
Answers will vary – e.g., "Stanley Yelnats is kind and brave. At first, he feels unlucky and unsure of himself, but he grows more confident over time. He shows loyalty and courage when he carries Zero up the mountain and stands up to the Warden. His actions prove he is a true friend and hero."
What does third-person point of view sound like?
Uses “he,” “she,” or characters’ names; narrator is outside the story.
What does the word mischievous mean in this sentence? “The mischievous kitten knocked over the plant.”
Playful in a naughty or troublesome way
Explain the sequence of events in a simple procedure like brushing your teeth.
Answers may vary: 1. Get toothbrush, 2. Apply toothpaste, 3. Brush teeth, etc.
How can an author support their point in an argument?
Using facts, reasons, and examples
What is a theme in literature, and how can you find it in a story?
A theme is a message or lesson, found by looking at characters' actions and outcomes.
Compare a poem and a drama. What makes them different in structure?
Poems use stanzas and rhythm; dramas use dialogue and stage directions.
Find the meaning of the word disastrous in this sentence: “The birthday party was disastrous after the cake fell on the floor.”
Very bad or causing great trouble
Summarize a nonfiction passage in your own words. What should you include?
Main idea + key supporting details
Read two short texts about the same topic. How would you integrate the information?
Combine facts from both to explain or write about the topic more deeply.