The Pyramids of Egypt (Nonfiction Passage)

Start with a minute of talk: How would you move a heavy stone without a truck or a crane? Then have students read the passage on page 1, about 170 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.

The Pyramids of Egypt gives 3rd grade students a nonfiction passage of about 170 words about how ancient Egyptians built huge stone pyramids for their rulers, followed by five questions. The questions practice the main idea, vocabulary in context and making inferences, and the sheet is aligned to Common Core RI.3.2. An answer key is included.

The Pyramids of Egypt is a nonfiction passage of about 170 words about how ancient Egyptians built huge stone pyramids for their rulers. 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, key details and making inferences. Questions include "What is this passage mostly about" and "Why did the Egyptians build pyramids for their pharaohs". 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 would you move a heavy stone without a truck or a crane? Let students skim the title, then read once for the gist. A second pass with a pencil helps them mark the facts they need.

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.