Marie Curie (Nonfiction Passage)

Start with a minute of talk: What does it take to keep a hard experiment going for years? Then have students read the passage on page 1, about 260 words in 7 short paragraphs, pencil in hand. They can underline facts as they go. Page 2 has five questions, three multiple choice and two written responses. Have students quote or paraphrase the text evidence in each written answer, then compare their thinking with a partner. Check the work with the answer key.

Marie Curie gives 5th grade students a nonfiction passage of about 260 words about the scientist Marie Curie and her work with radioactive elements, followed by five questions. The questions practice vocabulary in context, making inferences and key details, and the sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.5.1. An answer key is included.

Marie Curie is a nonfiction passage of about 260 words about the scientist Marie Curie and her work with radioactive elements. It is written for 5th grade readers (ages 10-11) and has 7 short paragraphs, so students can read it in one sitting.

Its five questions, three multiple choice and two written, practice key details, making inferences and vocabulary in context. Questions include "Which detail best shows that Marie Curie was determined" and "Spending years on tons of rock shows what about her". The sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.5.1, and the answer key is included so you can check responses quickly.

Try this conversation starter: What does it take to keep a hard experiment going for years? Before reading, preview the title and ask students what they already know. After reading, have them restate the topic in one sentence before they answer the questions.

Plan about 20 to 25 minutes in all: the reading first, then the five questions. At home, a parent can read the questions aloud and talk through the written answers. In class, it works well for independent practice or a quick check of vocabulary in context and making inferences.