Penguins of Antarctica (Nonfiction Passage)

Start with a minute of talk: How do animals stay warm when there is no shelter? Then have students read the passage on page 1, about 190 words in 4 short paragraphs, pencil in hand. They can underline facts as they go. The questions on page 2 mix three multiple choice items with two short written answers, so give students room to explain their thinking in sentences. Check the work with the answer key.

Penguins of Antarctica gives 3rd grade students a nonfiction passage of about 190 words about how emperor penguins live, swim and raise chicks in the cold of Antarctica, followed by five questions. The questions practice the main idea, vocabulary in context and cause and effect, and the sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.3.2. An answer key is included.

Penguins of Antarctica is a nonfiction passage of about 190 words about how emperor penguins live, swim and raise chicks in the cold of Antarctica. It is written for 3rd grade readers (ages 8-9) and has 4 short paragraphs, so students can read it in one sitting.

Its five questions, three multiple choice and two written, practice the main idea, vocabulary in context and cause and effect. Questions include "What is the main idea of the passage" and "How does the father emperor penguin keep the egg warm". The sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.3.2, and the answer key is included so you can check responses quickly.

Try this conversation starter: How do animals stay warm when there is no shelter? Have students look at the title and predict three facts they might learn. Afterward, ask which prediction was closest.

Set aside roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Families can use it for a calm reading session, and teachers can use it as homework, a center or a short formative check of the main idea and vocabulary in context.