K-4
QUESTIONS FOR EMPHASIZING STANDARDS 1, 6, and 7
                           Paulette Cefalu-Walkwitz, Supervisor
                                                                                 Curriculum and Instruction

1.  Identify vocabulary words in the story.  Have students give the meaning, a synonym, or an antonym for the words.  Assess vocabulary strategies (e.g., context clues, affixes, etymology, dictionary).

2.  Have students identify or describe one or more of the following in the selection:
a)  setting   b)   plot   c)   characters   d) theme
Have students identify literary devices (e.g., figurative language).

3.  Ask students questions to assess comprehension.  Ask literal, inferential, and higher level questions.  Do not use all multiple choice answers.  Have students write answers in complete sentences.

4.  Ask question(s) which require students to relate story to real-life situations. 

5.  (If applicable to selection) Ask questions related to the ethnic groups represented in the selection.  Have them compare/contrast the ethnic group to other groups.

6.  If applicable, have students identify the genre.  Have them explain why they would classify the selection as this genre.

7.  Ask how this genre differs from a previously discussed genre.  Discuss the characteristics of the genre. 

8.  Ask questions which require students to do the following:
     A.  Sequence story events
     B.  Draw conclusions
     C.  Compare and contrast
     D.  Make inferences
     E.  Determine the main idea.
     F.  Predict
     G.  Summarize
     H.  Determine main ideas
      I.   Recognize literary devices
      J.   Paraphrase

9.  Have students solve a problem by using reasoning skills, life experiences, and other available information.

10.  Ask questions which require the student to recognize the author's purpose and/or point of view.

11.  Ask questions which require students to
        A.  Distinguish fact from opinion
        B.  Skim and scan for facts
        C.  Determine cause and effect
        D.  Generate inquiry
        E.  Make connections with real-life situations.            
        F.   Use inductive and deductive reasoning.