Short Stories Handouts

These 10 graphic organizers are the perfect way to review any read, from fable to expository text. This FREEBIE features the following graphic organizers:

⭐️ Author's Purpose ⭐️ Cause and Effect ⭐️ Character, Setting, and Events ⭐️ Compare and Contrast ⭐️ Main Idea and Key Details ⭐️ Point of View ⭐️ Problem and Solution ⭐️ Sequence ⭐️ Storyline ⭐️ Theme

For any questions, comments, or suggestions feel free to email us at: toms.talk.resources@gmail.com.

Sponge activities!

Have advanced writers in your class that always finish early? Look no farther! Give those students a Creative Writing Sponge activity. This will help your students associate writing with fun and advance their handwriting and grammatical skills! I have also found that it helps indecisive students narrow down what they could write about by giving them limited options! This could be graded as extra credit or left as just an fun extra activity.

Includes:

• 10 writing templates
• A total of 20 creative writing options split between templates
• Multi-colored backgrounds
• All designs are included in the thumbnails for viewing

Your feedback is appreciated!

This 20-page EDITABLE unit has everything you'll need for profoundly stimulating lessons on Ernest Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants." Invite your class to engage in student-driven discussions without compromising on intellectual rigor. The pre-reading handout, reading quiz, and discussion questions will challenge your students to dig beneath the surface of the text and generate profound interpretive insights!!

Hold your students accountable for completing the homework by beginning class with a quick reading quiz. Then facilitate a dynamic discussion that motivates students to become attached to the thrill generating shared knowledge. Challenge students to explicate textual details using a wide range of interpretive lenses: formalist, psychoanalytic, cultural studies, etc.

Here are some highlights from this 20-page unit:

• Pre-Reading Handout: Hemingway's Prose Style: Hemingway was the writer who invented the prose style that we now refer to as "literary minimalism." This handout gives an account of Hemingway's "theory of omission" as well as the specific techniques that he used to make his stories resonate with meanings hidden just beneath the surface. This handout also explains why Hemingway's stories are so great for cultivating skills in close reading. (1 page)

• Reading Quiz: The reading quiz contains 10 questions focused on important details from the plot of "Hills Like White Elephants." Grading this quiz is simple and quick. Answer key included. (2 pages)

• Discussion Question Handout: One double-sided handout featuring 12 discussion questions on Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants." The discussion questions are the divided into 5 sections, each of which focuses on a different literary element or theme: characterization, setting, symbolism, etc. As with all of my resources, the discussion questions are the beating heart of this lesson plan. Every question is grounded in concrete textual details and challenges students to arrive at lucid interpretive insights! (2 pages)

• Discussion Question Answer Key: This unit features a detailed answer key that's informed by the best scholarly essays on "Hills Like White Elephants." But please note that there is rarely a single "correct" answer for any question. Rather, the discussions questions are designed to foster lively exchanges and interpretive debates among students. They challenge students to build interpretive arguments that require the support of carefully selected textual evidence! (6 pages)

• Quick Write: Challenge students to take their interpretations one step further by writing an analytical paragraph on Hemingway's wonderfully complex story. Let students choose one of the discussion questions and build out paragraph-length interpretation. (1 page)

My store is called “Rigorous Resources” because all of the units feature rigorous, content-rich lessons guaranteed to boost your students' close-reading and critical-thinking skills. What distinguishes this unit is how the discussion questions and writing assignment are designed to help student arrive at an abundance of interpretive insights!!

These lesson plans are packaged in a single 20-page EDITABLE Word document which you can CUSTOMIZE to suit your teaching style and/or your students' skill levels. Because I believe that teachers on TeachShare should be able to see what they're buying before they make a purchase, the preview for this resource provides access to 7 actual pages from the lesson. Click on the green “preview” button to see exactly what you’ll get....

Thank you for choosing “Rigorous Resources”!!

Happy teaching!

Adam Jernigan, Ph.D.

adamjernigan@gmail.com

P.S. Don't forget to click “follow” for email updates on new products by Rigorous Resources. New products will be 50% OFF for the first 24 hours!

Rigorous Resources is your one-stop shop for resources on American literature. Every unit was designed by a Ph.D. in English with a research specialization in American literature. Feel free to check out these complete units on canonical texts by diverse American authors:

Complete Unit on Tommy Orange's There There

Complete Unit on Arthur Miller's The Crucible

Complete Unit on Frederick Douglass's Narrative

Complete Unit on F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby

Complete Unit on Nella Larsen's Passing

Complete Unit on Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God

Complete Unit on J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye

Complete Unit on Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun

Complete Unit on Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye

The Silent Struggle: A Powerful Resource for Addressing Bullying and Promoting Social-Emotional Learning

This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here

Inspire your students to become advocates for change with "The Silent Struggle," a captivating story that tackles the issue of bullying and the transformative power of self-advocacy. This comprehensive learning package is designed to help students in grades 6-8 develop empathy, resilience, and the courage to speak out against injustice.

The package includes:

1. "The Silent Struggle" short story
2. 10 thought-provoking discussion questions
3. 5 creative writing prompts
4. 10 engaging project ideas that align with the core competencies of social-emotional learning
5. A vocabulary list featuring 20 words related to bullying prevention and personal growth, complete with definitions and parts of speech
6. An in-depth analysis of the story's themes, tailored for middle school students

Through this powerful resource, your students will:

• Explore the far-reaching consequences of bullying on mental health and academic performance
• Discuss the importance of supportive friendships and the role of allies in overcoming adversity
• Examine the responsibilities of school staff in creating a safe and inclusive learning environment
• Engage in projects that foster self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, self-management, and relationship skills
• Reflect on their own experiences and apply the lessons learned to their daily lives
• Expand their vocabulary and understanding of literary elements

"The Silent Struggle" learning package is a versatile tool that can be seamlessly integrated into your language arts, social studies, or character education curriculum. The projects and assignments are designed to accommodate diverse learning styles, ensuring that all students can engage with the material and develop a deeper understanding of the story's themes.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Help Your Students Explore Bullying & Resilience with "The Invisible Scars"

A Powerful Story & Engaging Activities for Grades 5-8

"The Invisible Scars" is a compelling short story about Avery, a middle school student struggling with the long-term effects of bullying. This relatable narrative provides a springboard for meaningful discussions about mental health, self-esteem, and the importance of seeking help.

This comprehensive resource includes:

• A moving short story (approx. 2,000 words) that tackles the sensitive topic of bullying and its lasting impact on a young person's life.

• Engaging activities designed to deepen students' understanding of the story's themes, including:

  • Thought-provoking discussion questions to spark classroom conversations about bullying, resilience, and support systems.
  • Creative writing prompts that encourage students to explore the story's themes through different perspectives and genres.
  • Project-based assignments that allow students to research, analyze, and create presentations, campaigns, and more.

• A comprehensive vocabulary list to enhance students' reading comprehension and vocabulary development.

"The Invisible Scars" will help your students:

• Develop empathy and understanding for individuals who have experienced bullying.
• Recognize the signs of bullying and its impact on mental health.
• Identify healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult emotions and situations.
• Understand the importance of seeking help from trusted adults and mental health professionals.
• Develop their critical thinking, writing, and communication skills through engaging activities.

This resource is perfect for:

• Language Arts classes
• Social Studies classes
• Guidance lessons
• Advisory periods
• Anti-bullying initiatives

Embark on a journey of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth with this captivating collection of eight short stories, perfect for teaching social-emotional learning and character education in the classroom.

"Friendship and Loyalty: Stories about the Challenges and Rewards of Maintaining Strong Friendships" is a powerful tool for educators seeking to foster meaningful discussions and lessons on the importance of building and maintaining healthy relationships. Each story in this collection highlights different aspects of friendship, such as trust, empathy, communication, and standing up for what's right, making it an invaluable resource for teaching essential life skills.

As students follow the journeys of Emma and Olivia, Jack and Liam, Maya and Zoe, and other memorable characters, they will learn valuable lessons about the power of unexpected connections, the importance of reconciliation, and the strength that comes from supporting one another through difficult times. These stories also tackle important topics such as peer pressure, standing up for oneself and others, and the consequences of one's actions on friendships.

Each story comes with a vocab list (word, part of speech, definition), a selection of potential assignments, a breakdown of the story structure, and applicable Common Core and National Health Education standards. All stories are also available individually from the DEEPbyDESIGN store.

Friendship and Loyalty: Stories about the Challenges and Rewards of Maintaining Strong Friendship

1. "The Unbreakable Bond": Two best friends, Emma and Olivia, find their friendship tested when they are assigned to compete against each other in a school science fair. As the competition intensifies, they must navigate the challenges of remaining loyal to each other while pursuing their individual goals.
2. "The Long-Distance Friendship": When Jack's best friend, Liam, moves to another country, they promise to stay in touch. Despite the time differences and the challenges of maintaining a long-distance friendship, the boys find creative ways to keep their bond strong.
3. "The Unexpected Friendship": Maya, a shy bookworm, and Zoe, a popular athlete, are paired together for a school project. As they work together, they discover that despite their differences, they have more in common than they thought and form an unlikely but powerful friendship.
4. "The Friendship Fallout": Aiden and Ethan have been best friends since kindergarten, but when a misunderstanding leads to a falling out, they must find a way to reconcile and repair their friendship.
5. "The Loyal Sidekick": When Sophia, the school's drama star, loses her voice before the big play, her best friend and understudy, Lily, steps in to help. Lily must balance her loyalty to Sophia with her own dreams of being in the spotlight.
6. "The Secret Keeper": When Nate confides in his best friend, Luke, about a family secret, Luke must decide whether to keep the secret or risk their friendship by telling an adult who can help.
7. "The Friendship Game": Four best friends, Ava, Bella, Chloe, and Daisy, create a game to test their friendship. As the challenges become more intense, they must decide what's more important: winning the game or maintaining their bond.
8. "The Friendship Rescue": When Mia's best friend, Sophie, starts hanging out with a new group of friends who engage in risky behavior, Mia must find the courage to stand up for what's right and help Sophie see the value of their true friendship.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Engage your students with "The Bully's Redemption," a powerful short story that explores the complexities of bullying, empathy, and personal growth. This comprehensive learning package is designed to help students in grades 6-9 develop critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and a deeper understanding of the importance of kindness and second chances.

The package includes:

1. "The Bully's Redemption" short story
2. 10 thought-provoking discussion questions
3. 5 engaging writing prompts
4. 10 project ideas based on the five main components of Social Emotional Learning
5. A vocabulary list with 20 words, including definitions and parts of speech

An in-depth exploration of the story's themes, tailored for grades 5-8

Through this learning package, your students will:

• Analyze the characters, their motivations, and their growth throughout the story
• Discuss the impact of bullying and the importance of breaking the cycle
• Explore the power of empathy, understanding, and second chances in fostering personal growth
• Examine the influence of family and home life on a child's behavior and well-being
• Engage in projects that promote self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making
• Expand their vocabulary and understanding of literary devices
• Reflect on their own experiences and apply the lessons learned to their lives

This versatile resource can be easily integrated into your language arts, literature, or social-emotional learning curriculum. The projects and assignments are designed to cater to various learning styles, promoting engagement and fostering a deeper understanding of the story's themes.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Unbreakable Bond" is a captivating short story that explores the power of friendship, resilience, and the challenges of competition. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 5-8 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story, and a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills while fostering a deeper understanding of the text.

Key features of this literature guide:

• A The full text of "The Unbreakable Bond" short story (1500 words)
• 10 engaging assignments and projects covering Language Arts, Health and Career, and Relationships
• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to expand students' word knowledge
• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 5-8

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Character analysis and development
• Theme exploration and essay writing
• Alternate endings and point-of-view exercises
• Stress management and collaboration skills
• Conflict resolution and friendship reflections

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of friendship, perseverance, and teamwork. "The Unbreakable Bond" is a relatable and inspiring story that will capture your students' imagination and spark meaningful discussions in your classroom.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Friendship Fallout" is a heartwarming short story that delves into the complexities of friendship, the impact of misunderstandings, and the importance of forgiveness. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 5-8 as they explore the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story and a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the text.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Friendship Fallout" short story (approximately 1,700 words)

• 10 thought-provoking assignments and projects covering Language Arts, Health and Career, and Relationships

• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to enhance students' word knowledge

• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 5-8

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Personal narrative essay writing
• Poetry analysis and creative presentation
• Short story writing focusing on character development and dialogue
• Healthy lifestyle planning and reflection
• Career exploration and informational interviews
• Public service announcement creation addressing relevant health issues
• Relationship role-play scenarios and "advice column" writing
• Relationship interview project and gratitude letter writing

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of empathy, open communication, and the resilience of true friendship. "The Friendship Fallout" is a relatable and inspiring story that will captivate your students' hearts and minds, fostering meaningful discussions in your classroom.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

The Online Trap - A Comprehensive Cyberbullying Unit for Grades 5-8

Engage your students in a meaningful exploration of cyberbullying and digital citizenship with "The Online Trap," a comprehensive unit designed for grades 5-8. This powerful resource centers around an original, thought-provoking story that follows the journey of Samantha, a creative and kind-hearted student who faces the challenges of cyberbullying. As students dive into the story, they will develop a deeper understanding of the impact of online harassment, the importance of self-advocacy, and the power of resilience and empathy.

The unit includes:

• An analysis of themes.
• The complete story, "The Online Trap," in a printable format for easy distribution to students.
• A set of 10 discussion questions that encourage critical thinking and reflective conversations about the story's themes, including empathy, bystander intervention, digital footprint, and more.
• Five unique writing prompts that allow students to explore various perspectives and experiences related to cyberbullying, from personal narratives to persuasive essays.
• A collection of 10 engaging projects and assignments that extend the learning beyond the story. These include developing a digital citizenship campaign, creating a podcast series, conducting research on cyberbullying, and organizing a kindness challenge.
• A 20-word vocabulary table that supports language development and enhances comprehension of the story and related concepts.

By integrating "The Online Trap" into your curriculum, you will be providing your students with a safe and structured space to explore the complex issues surrounding cyberbullying. The unit's thought-provoking discussions, writing exercises, and projects will help students develop crucial social-emotional skills, such as empathy, resilience, and responsible decision-making, while fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

This comprehensive unit is designed to be flexible and adaptable to your classroom's unique needs. Whether you choose to use the entire unit or select specific components to complement your existing curriculum, "The Online Trap" offers a valuable opportunity to engage your students in meaningful conversations and activities that promote digital citizenship and social-emotional learning.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Introducing "The Bystander's Dilemma" - a compelling story and comprehensive teaching resource for grades 5-8 that addresses the critical issue of bullying and the power of being an upstander.

This thought-provoking story follows Lucas, a middle school student who witnesses the bullying of his classmate, Emma. As Lucas grapples with the decision to intervene or remain silent, students will explore themes of courage, compassion, and the importance of standing up for others.

"The Bystander's Dilemma" is more than just a story; it's a complete teaching package designed to engage your students and foster meaningful discussions about bullying prevention and character development.

This resource includes:

• The full story, divided into chapters for easy classroom reading and discussion
• Detailed character profiles and a story arc to help students analyze literary elements
• Thoughtful discussion questions to promote critical thinking and personal reflection
• Engaging writing prompts to encourage creative expression and empathy-building
• Vocabulary list with definitions to support language development
• Comprehensive lesson ideas & activities, including character analysis, anti-bullying campaign poster design, role-playing, and more

As an educator, you understand the importance of addressing bullying and promoting a positive school climate. "The Bystander's Dilemma" provides a relevant and relatable context for students to explore these issues, while also strengthening their literacy skills and social-emotional learning.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Friendship Game" is an engaging short story that explores the dynamics of friendship, personal growth, and the challenges that arise when a well-intended game takes an unexpected turn. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to captivate students in grades 5-8 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story and a diverse set of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts and National Health Education Standards. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the text and its relevance to their lives.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Friendship Game" short story (1400 words)
• 10 thought-provoking assignments and projects covering character analysis, friendship, personal growth, and more
• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to expand students' word knowledge
• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 6-9 and National Health Education Standards

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Analyzing character development and group dynamics
• Exploring themes of friendship, personal growth, and overcoming challenges
• Discussing the importance of communication, empathy, and conflict resolution in friendships
• Creating friendship-themed skits, comic strips, and collages
• Developing effective problem-solving and decision-making skills

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the significance of healthy friendships, personal growth, and resilience in the face of adversity. "The Friendship Game" is a relatable and emotionally resonant story that will engage your students and inspire meaningful discussions in your classroom.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Empower your middle school students to recognize, address, and prevent bullying with this comprehensive novel study centered around "The Teacher's Influence." This compelling story follows Ms. Nguyen, a dedicated teacher who takes a proactive stance against bullying when she sees a student targeted for her unique personality.

This ready-to-use resource equips you with everything needed to guide your students through a meaningful exploration of the story and its themes:

Chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis: Facilitate deeper understanding and encourage critical thinking about the narrative.

• Thought-provoking discussion questions: Spark insightful conversations about bullying, empathy, the role of bystanders, and the importance of inclusivity.
• Engaging writing prompts: Inspire creative expression and encourage students to connect with the story on a personal level.
• Dynamic project-based learning activities: Deepen learning through hands-on projects like designing kindness campaigns, creating PSAs, and conducting inclusion audits.
• Vocabulary building exercises: Expand students' vocabulary with key terms related to bullying prevention, social justice, and positive school culture.

"The Teacher's Influence" novel study unit is perfect for:

• Language Arts and Reading classes
• Advisory or Homeroom periods
• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum
• Character Education programs
• Bullying prevention initiatives

This resource is designed to:

• Enhance reading comprehension and analytical skills.
• Facilitate meaningful conversations about bullying, empathy, and inclusivity.
• Empower students to be upstanders and advocates for positive change.
• Provide a framework for creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Equip students with the tools and knowledge to combat bullying in their own communities.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

Engage your students with "The Friendship Rescue," a compelling story that explores the themes of friendship, peer pressure, and personal growth. This comprehensive Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) unit is designed for students in grades 5-8 and aligns with both Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and National Health Education Standards (NHES).

The unit includes:

• The complete story, "The Friendship Rescue" (2000 words)
• Ten thoughtful assignments that explore character education, emotions, dealing with issues, and knowing when enough is enough
• A 20-word vocabulary list tailored to grades 6-9, including definitions and parts of speech
• Alignment with CCSS ELA standards for reading, writing, and speaking & listening
• Alignment with NHES standards for health promotion, analyzing influences, interpersonal communication, decision-making, and practicing health-enhancing behaviors

Through engaging with this unit, your students will:

• Analyze the story's themes and characters, citing textual evidence to support their ideas
• Write reflective essays, narratives, and arguments related to the story's themes
• Engage in collaborative discussions and role-playing activities to explore SEL concepts
• Develop a deeper understanding of loyalty, empathy, courage, and resilience
• Learn strategies for dealing with peer pressure and making healthy decisions
• Expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills

The assignments in this unit are designed to be flexible and adaptable to your classroom's needs. They can be used for whole-class instruction, small-group work, or individual student reflection. The variety of activities, including writing tasks, role-playing, creating posters and brochures, and class discussions, will keep your students engaged and motivated.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Secret Keeper" is a powerful short story that delves into the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the challenges of navigating difficult life situations. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to engage students in grades 6-9 as they explore the story's themes, characters, and important life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story and a range of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts and National Health Education Standards. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the text and its relevance to their lives.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Secret Keeper" short story (approximately 1,300 words)
• 10 thought-provoking assignments and projects covering character analysis, mental health awareness, healthy coping mechanisms, and more
• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to expand students' word knowledge
• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 6-9 and National Health Education Standards

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Analyzing character development and motivation
• Exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth
• Discussing the importance of seeking help and support during difficult times
• Creating mental health awareness posters and community resource guides
• Developing effective communication and problem-solving skills

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the significance of mental health, the power of friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. "The Secret Keeper" is a relatable and emotionally resonant story that will captivate your students and inspire meaningful discussions in your classroom.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Unite Your Classroom Against Bullying with "The United Front"

Empower your middle schoolers to combat bullying and embrace diversity with this engaging short story and comprehensive activity pack!

"The United Front" tells the heartwarming story of Olivia, a shy artist targeted by bullies, and the diverse group of classmates who overcome their hesitation to stand up for her. This relatable narrative provides a springboard for meaningful discussions about acceptance, empathy, and the power of unity.

This resource is packed with:

• A captivating short story: With relatable characters and realistic situations, "The United Front" will resonate with your students and spark important conversations.
• Dynamic discussion questions: Deepen comprehension and encourage critical thinking about bullying, diversity, empathy, and the role of bystanders.
• Creative writing prompts: Inspire your students to explore themes of unity, acceptance, and courage through various writing activities.
• Engaging projects and assignments: From anti-bullying campaigns to diversity quilts and upstander interviews, these hands-on activities will bring the story's themes to life.
• A comprehensive vocabulary list: Enhance students' understanding of key terms related to bullying, diversity, and social responsibility.

"The United Front" will help you:

• Create a safe and inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and respected.
• Facilitate meaningful discussions about bullying, diversity, empathy, and social responsibility.
• Develop students' critical thinking skills as they analyze characters' motivations and actions.
• Enhance students' writing skills through engaging prompts and creative writing activities.
• Empower students to become upstanders who stand up for themselves and others.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Long-Distance Friendship" is a touching short story that explores the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a close friendship despite physical distance. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 5-8 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story, and a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills while fostering a deeper understanding of the text.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Long-Distance Friendship" short story (1500 words)
• 10 engaging assignments and projects covering Language Arts, Health and Career, and Relationships
• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to expand students' word knowledge
• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 5-8

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Analyzing various forms of communication in long-distance friendships
• Exploring cultural differences and their impact on relationships
• Developing conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
• Discussing the role of technology in maintaining long-distance friendships
• Creating friendship guides and career exploration activities

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of friendship, communication, and personal growth. "The Long-Distance Friendship" is a relatable and heartwarming story that will captivate your students and inspire meaningful discussions in your classroom.

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Unexpected Friendship" is a beautifully crafted short story that explores the power of friendship and the importance of looking beyond surface-level differences. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 5-8 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story, which follows the journey of Maya, a shy bookworm, and Zoe, a popular athlete, as they are paired together for a school project. Despite their initial reluctance, the two girls discover a shared passion and form an unlikely but powerful bond. Through their friendship, they confront personal challenges, overcome social barriers, and learn to support one another in the face of adversity.

In addition to the full text, this guide provides a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills while fostering a deeper understanding of the text.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Unexpected Friendship" short story (approximately 1,400 words)
• 10 engaging assignments and projects covering Language Arts, Health and Career, and Relationships
• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to expand students' word knowledge
• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 6-9

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Analyzing character development and motivation
• Exploring themes of acceptance, personal growth, and the value of diverse friendships
• Developing communication and conflict resolution skills
• Discussing the impact of stereotypes and social expectations on relationships
• Creating friendship guides and career exploration activities related to the story's themes

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of empathy, open-mindedness, and the power of unexpected connections. "The Unexpected Friendship" is a relatable and heartwarming story that will captivate your students and inspire meaningful discussions in your classroom.

*This is one story taken from a book eight, which can be found here.

Empower your middle schoolers to understand and combat bullying with this comprehensive novel study centered around "The Bully in the Mirror." This engaging story follows Jayden, a student who uses bullying to mask his own insecurities, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns the power of empathy and change.

This ready-to-use resource provides everything you need to guide your students through a meaningful exploration of the story's themes, including:

• Chapter-by-chapter summaries and analysis: Deepen comprehension and encourage critical thinking.
• Engaging discussion questions: Spark thoughtful conversations about bullying, empathy, personal growth, and the importance of support systems.
• Varied writing prompts: Inspire creative writing and encourage students to connect with the story on a personal level.
• Project-based learning activities: Foster deeper understanding through hands-on projects like designing anti-bullying campaigns, creating soundtracks, and conducting interviews.
• Vocabulary building exercises: Expand students' vocabulary with key terms related to the story's themes.

"The Bully in the Mirror" novel study unit is perfect for:

• Language Arts and Reading classes
• Advisory or Homeroom periods
• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum
• Bullying prevention initiatives

This resource is designed to:

• Enhance reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• Spark meaningful discussions about bullying and its impact.
• Cultivate empathy and understanding among students.
• Encourage self-reflection and personal growth.
• Provide a framework for creating a more positive and supportive classroom environment.

Give your students the tools they need to recognize, understand, and combat bullying with this impactful and engaging novel study unit. Download "The Bully in the Mirror" today!

This story is one of eight featured in the ebook, "Friendship and Loyalty: Eight Short Stories Vocab / SEL / ELA Activities 5-8."

"The Loyal Sidekick" is an inspiring short story that explores the unbreakable bond of friendship, the challenges of balancing loyalty and personal ambition, and the power of believing in oneself. This comprehensive literature guide is designed to help teachers engage their students in grades 6-9 as they delve into the story's themes, characters, and valuable life lessons.

The package includes the complete short story and a variety of assignments and projects that align with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts. These resources will help your students develop critical thinking, writing, and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the text.

Key features of this literature guide:

• The full text of "The Loyal Sidekick" short story (approximately 1,500 words)

• 10 engaging assignments and projects covering character analysis, creative writing, theme exploration, and drama activities

• A comprehensive vocabulary list with definitions to enhance students' word knowledge

• Alignment with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for grades 5-9

The assignments and projects cover a wide range of topics and skills, including:

• Character analysis and development

• Alternate ending and dialogue writing exercises

• Theme exploration through essay writing

• Set design and monologue performance activities

• Friendship collage creation and news article writing

• Soundtrack creation and drama games focused on teamwork and communication

By using this literature guide, your students will not only strengthen their language arts skills but also gain valuable insights into the importance of friendship, loyalty, and pursuing one's dreams. "The Loyal Sidekick" is a heartwarming and relatable story that will captivate your students' hearts and minds, fostering meaningful discussions and personal growth in your classroom.