Why We Recycle (Nonfiction Passage)

Start with a minute of talk: What do you throw away at home that could be used again? 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. Then turn to page 2 for five questions: three to circle and two to write about. Written answers should be full sentences that use a clue from the text. Check the work with the answer key.

Why We Recycle gives 3rd grade students a nonfiction passage of about 190 words about why sorting and reusing paper, glass and metal helps the planet, 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.

Why We Recycle is a nonfiction passage of about 190 words about why sorting and reusing paper, glass and metal helps the planet. 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 "Why are landfills a problem". 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: What do you throw away at home that could be used again? Ask students to name one thing they wonder about the topic, then read to find out. Come back to the question after the last paragraph.

Most students need about 15 to 20 minutes for the passage and the questions together. The sheet works at a kitchen table with a parent talking through the written answers, or at a reading center as independent work on the main idea and vocabulary in context.