8th Grade Close Reading Research

Dive into the rich heritage and traditions of California Native American peoples with our comprehensive Growing Bundle of reading research resources. This expanding collection offers in-depth insights into various aspects of California Native American life, perfect for research or close reading activities. Ideal for Indigenous People's Day and beyond!

California Native American Peoples Covered:

• Miwok
• Chumash
• Cahuilla
• Mojave
• Hupa
• ...and more to come...

Key Features for Each Group:

• Land: Explore the locations and landscapes where each California Native American people lived.
• Homes: Learn about the unique shelters built by each tribe, showcasing their ingenuity and community living.
• Clothing: Discover the distinct clothing styles and materials used by each California Native American people.
• Children: Gain insights into the lives of children within each tribe, including their roles and daily activities.
• Influential Figures: Delve into the lives and achievements of notable leaders and figures from each tribe.

Two Differentiated Levels for Each Resource:

• Elementary Level: Simplified language and engaging visuals to captivate young learners and foster a deeper understanding of each culture.
• Middle/High School Level: More detailed and complex information tailored for older students, encouraging critical thinking and deeper analysis.

BONUS FILE: Booklet Template aligned to the reading passages.

Why Choose This Growing Bundle?

• Versatile Use: Ideal for classroom instruction, homework assignments, or independent study.
• Educational Value: Provides a thorough and respectful portrayal of California Native American heritage, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.

Enhance your students' knowledge and appreciation of California Native American history and culture with our expertly crafted and continuously expanding bundle of research resources.

Transform your classroom into a winter adventure with this Winter Wonderland Vacation PBL! This engaging, print-and-go project-based learning unit is perfect for the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas or any time during the winter months. Students will plan their dream winter vacation while developing critical skills in research, budgeting, creativity, and presentation. With minimal prep for teachers and maximum excitement for students, this resource is a must-have for your seasonal curriculum!

What’s Included:

✅ 8 Comprehensive Lesson Plans – Covering daily tasks with clear pacing and objectives.
✅ Task Rubrics – Detailed rubrics for all 8 tasks, ensuring easy grading and clear student expectations.
✅ Printable PDFs – Research guides, worksheets, and templates to guide every step of the project.
✅ Editable Slideshow Template – Students create a final presentation showcasing their vacation plans.
✅ Total Budget Sheet Template – A fun and practical way for students to manage costs within a $5,000 limit.
✅ Pacing Plan – Simplified day-by-day instructions for a stress-free implementation.

Skills Covered:

This interdisciplinary project incorporates:
Research Skills: Students investigate destinations, transportation, lodging, activities, and meals.
Math and Budgeting: From calculating costs to managing a $5,000 budget.
Creativity and Design: Crafting a visually appealing slideshow and planning unique trips.
Critical Thinking: Balancing priorities to stay within budget and justifying decisions.
Presentation Skills: Sharing their vacation plans with confidence and clarity.

Why Teachers Love It:

Low Prep: Simply print and go! All materials are ready to use or easily editable.
Flexible Use: Perfect for grades 5+, with extensions for higher or lower ability levels.
Seasonal Fun: Keeps students engaged during the weeks leading up to winter break.
Real-World Learning: Combines academic rigor with practical life skills in a fun, meaningful way.
Time-Saving: Includes ready-to-use rubrics and templates for smooth implementation.

Perfect for:

❄️ The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
❄️ A winter-themed project in January or February.
❄️ Enrichment activities for early finishers or gifted students.
❄️ Cross-curricular lessons with ELA, math, and social studies connections.

Celebrate Women's History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month with this versatile informational reading passage, research report, and collaborative art project on Frida Kahlo, a Mexican Artist and Latina changemaker. Perfect for a research project or as an engaging classroom activity.

***Reading Passages***

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

***Reading Comprehension Questions!***

These questions are differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader, making it ideal for close reading activities.

Features:

• Colored and Black-Line Versions: Available in both vibrant color and easy-to-print black-line formats.
• Reading Comprehension Questions: Tailored for early elementary (grades 1-3) and a separate worksheet for upper elementary (grades 4-6).

***Trifold***

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject: Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Frida Kahlo is pre-filled in one version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations, encouraging students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

***Collaborative Mural Poster***

Habe students contribute to a larger masterpiece that honors the talent and resilience of Frida Kahlo. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Frida Kahlo's impactful life and words.

Pro-Tip To make a smaller puzzle, use your printer or copier's "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one sheet!

Two Sizes Available: 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Includes both Color-Guide & BW versions)

Perfect for classrooms celebrating Women's History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month, this Frida Kahlo Reading Passage + Research Report Template + Collaborative will inspire students to learn about and appreciate the incredible contributions of this Latina changemaker.

Celebrate Women's History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month with this versatile informational reading passage, research report, and collaborative art project on Dolores Huerta, a U.S. leader, hero, and Latina changemaker. Perfect for a research project or as an engaging classroom activity.

***Reading Passages***

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

- Early elementary (1-3)

- Upper elementary (4-6)

- Complex Readers (7-12)

*Each newsletter is 2 pages.

Information on...

➡️ Early Life

➡️ Career

➡️ Interesting Facts

➡️ Influence

***Reading Comprehension Questions***
These questions are differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader, making it ideal for close reading exercises.

Features:

• Colored and Black-Line Versions: Available in both vibrant color and easy-to-print black-line formats.
• Reading Comprehension Questions: Tailored for early elementary (grades 1-3) and a separate worksheet for upper elementary (grades 4-6).

***Trifold Reseach Template***

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject (Dolores Huerta): Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Dolores Huerta is pre-filled in one version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations, encouraging students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

***Collaborative Mural Poster***

Have students contribute to a larger masterpiece that honors the wisdom and resilience of Dolores Huerta. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Dolores Huerta's impactful life and words.

Pro-Tip To make a smaller puzzle, use your printer or copier's "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one sheet!

Two Sizes Available: 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Includes both Color-Guide & BW versions)

This is a Informational Reading Passage AND Collaborative Art Project about Frida Kahlo as an Latina Leader and a Female Changemaker. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or as an activity for Women's History Month or Hispanic Heritage Month.

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Information on...

- Early Life

- Career

- Interesting Facts

- Artistic Contributions/Influences

• Inclusive Learning: Foster an inclusive classroom environment by exploring diverse narratives and celebrating the achievements of underrepresented voices.
• Ready-to-Use Content: Save time on lesson planning with our pre-packaged materials, allowing you to focus on what you do best – inspiring the next generation.

***Plus****

Frida Kahlo Collaborative Mural Poster! Engage students as artists, inviting them to contribute to a larger masterpiece that pays tribute to the wisdom and resilience of Frida Kahlo. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Frida Kahlo's impactful words and life.

***Pro-Tip*** To make a smaller puzzle- use your printer or copiers "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one paper!

2 sizes- 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Bordered, Colored or B&W)

This is a Informational Reading Passage AND Collaborative Art Project about Ellen Ochoa as an Latina Leader and a Female Changemaker. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or as an activity for Women's History Month or Hispanic Heritage Month.

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Information on...

- Early Life

- Career

- Interesting Facts

- Artistic Contributions/Influences

• Inclusive Learning: Foster an inclusive classroom environment by exploring diverse narratives and celebrating the achievements of underrepresented voices.
• Ready-to-Use Content: Save time on lesson planning with our pre-packaged materials, allowing you to focus on what you do best – inspiring the next generation.

***Plus****

Ellen Ochoa Collaborative Mural Poster! Engage students as artists, inviting them to contribute to a larger masterpiece that pays tribute to the wisdom and resilience of Ellen Ochoa. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Ellen Ochoa's impactful words and life.

***Pro-Tip*** To make a smaller puzzle- use your printer or copiers "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one paper!

2 sizes- 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Bordered, Colored or B&W)

This is a Informational Reading Passage AND Collaborative Art Project about Roberto Clemente as an Latino Leader and a Black Changemaker. Students can use this as a jumping off point for a research project or as an activity for Black History Month or Hispanic Heritage Month.

INCLUDED- Reading Comprehension Questions! Differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential female leader. Perfect for close reading!

• Colored and black-line version
• Reading comprehension questions for early elementary (1-3) and separate worksheet for upper elementary (4-6)

Information on...

- Early Life

- Career

- Interesting Facts

- Artistic Contributions/Influences

• Inclusive Learning: Foster an inclusive classroom environment by exploring diverse narratives and celebrating the achievements of underrepresented voices.
• Ready-to-Use Content: Save time on lesson planning with our pre-packaged materials, allowing you to focus on what you do best – inspiring the next generation.

***Plus****

Roberto Clemente Collaborative Mural Poster! Engage students as artists, inviting them to contribute to a larger masterpiece that pays tribute to the wisdom and resilience of Roberto Clemente. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Roberto Clemente's impactful words and life.

***Pro-Tip*** To make a smaller puzzle- use your printer or copiers "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one paper!

2 sizes- 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Bordered, Colored or B&W)

Ready to bring some mystery and creativity to your classroom? This 3-day, interdisciplinary resource will have your students crafting their very own urban legends, exploring local landmarks, developing spine-tingling characters, and writing them up as breaking news! Perfect for grades 6-8, this resource integrates creative writing, social studies, and critical thinking. Your students will love diving into the unknown while meeting CCSS standards.

This Urban Legend Resource Includes:
Guided Notes on Urban Legends – Introduce students to the eerie world of urban legends, from famous creatures like Bigfoot to local mysteries.
Haunted Local Landmark Activity – Students will brainstorm and research a spooky local landmark and use it as the setting for their urban legend.
Character or Creature Development Worksheet – Students create mysterious, frightening characters that are sure to haunt their classmates’ imaginations!
Urban Legend Newspaper Template – Students write their urban legend as a two-page newspaper article, including eyewitness accounts, historical background, and more!
Peer Editing and Sharing – Encourage collaboration and feedback as students swap stories and offer critiques.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Interdisciplinary & Engaging: This resource blends creative writing and social studies, letting students explore local history while crafting an urban legend.
• Standards Aligned: Aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1, RI.6.2, W.6.2, and SL.6.1, focusing on reading, writing, and critical thinking.
• Student-Led & Collaborative: Students get to create their own urban legend from scratch, share their ideas, and receive feedback from peers.
• Perfect for All Learners: Flexible for independent work, small group collaboration, or whole-class discussions.
• 3-Day Lesson Plan Included: Ready-to-use, structured lesson plan that walks students through the entire creative process—brainstorming, writing, and sharing!

3-Day Lesson Plan Breakdown:

1. Day 1: The Haunted Local Landmark – Students choose a local landmark, research its history, and brainstorm how it will serve as the eerie setting for their urban legend.
2. Day 2: Developing the Story Elements – Students create a character or creature that haunts their legend and develop a plot full of suspense.
3. Day 3: Writing a Newspaper Article – Students bring their legend to life by writing it as a newspaper article, complete with eyewitness accounts, historical facts, and a chilling warning to readers!

Checklist of Benefits: ✅ Fun, spooky, and high-engagement content
✅ 3-day interdisciplinary lesson plan
✅ Perfect for creative writing and local history
✅ CCSS-aligned
✅ Collaborative and student-centered activities
✅ Ready-to-use worksheets and templates
✅ Ideal for grades 6-8

Don’t let this resource disappear into the shadows! Grab your urban legend writing kit today and bring a mysterious and fun writing experience to your classroom!

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with this versatile informational reading passage, research report, and collaborative art project on Lionel Messi, an Argentine soccer superstar and influential Latino. Perfect for a research project or as an engaging classroom activity.

***Reading Passages***

DIFFERENTIATED LEVELS FOR ALL LEARNERS

• Early elementary (1-3)
• Upper elementary (4-6)
• Complex Readers (7-12)

Each newsletter is 2 pages.
Information on...
➡️ Early Life
➡️ Career
➡️ Interesting Facts
➡️ Influence

***Reading Comprehension Questions***

These questions are differentiated and can be used with any reading passage about an influential Latino leader, making it ideal for close reading activities.
Features:

• Colored and Black-Line Versions: Available in both vibrant color and easy-to-print black-line formats.
• Reading Comprehension Questions: Tailored for early elementary (grades 1-3) and a separate worksheet for upper elementary (grades 4-6).

***Trifold***

How It Works:

1. Choose a Subject: Students select an individual to research. This could be anyone from historical figures, scientists, artists, to contemporary leaders or influencers. Lionel Messi is pre-filled in one version of this template.
2. Fill in the Blanks: The template guides students through the research process. They'll fill in key sections, providing biographical information, accomplishments, and the impact of the chosen individual.
3. Present to the Class: The completed reports become the basis for engaging class presentations, encouraging students to express themselves confidently and articulately.

***Collaborative Mural Poster***

Have students contribute to a larger masterpiece that honors the talent and resilience of Lionel Messi. This unique product transforms any space into a vibrant tapestry of collective expression, capturing the spirit of Messi's impactful life and words.
⭐️ Pro-Tip: To make a smaller puzzle, use your printer or copier's "combine" feature and print 2 pages on one sheet!

Two Sizes Available:

• 25 pieces or 36 pieces! (Includes both Color-Guide & BW versions)

Perfect for classrooms celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, this Lionel Messi Reading Passage + Research Report Template + Collaborative Mural will inspire students to learn about and appreciate the incredible contributions of this Latino changemaker.