Lexile 150 - Achieve3000...Imagine you are telling a friend all about Braille. What would you say? Be sure to talk about the history of Braille. Also talk about LEGO's new Braille

Lexile 150

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Watch me soar! Mark off each lesson step as you finish it. Use the back of this paper if you need more space to add more lessons.

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© Achieve3000 2019

A Master in the Making (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) A young boy learned to play chess. Now, he wants to become one of the best chess players in the world. What do you think?

With enough hard work, you can do anything.

• Do you agree or disagree?

Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: AP/Russell Makofsky

This is Tani Adewumi.

NEW YORK, New York (Achieve3000, April 2, 2019). Meet Tani Adewumi. He's a chess champ. And he's only 8.

Tani won a state tournament. That was in March 2019. Tani won every game.

Tani's win was great. But there's more to his story.

In 2017, Tani and his family fled Nigeria. They came to the U.S. They were homeless. They stayed in a shelter.

After the tournament, people heard about Tani. Many wanted to help. They gave almost $250,000! That was in just nine days.

Now, the Adewumis have an apartment. And they plan to help other people.

And Tani? He's still working on his chess game. He wants to get even better.

Information for this story came from AP and VOA. Video Credit: Saint Louis Chess Club, Spectrum Studios Published on Mar 30, 2019 Edited for length

Dictionary chess (noun) a game that is played on a board between two people shelter (noun) a place that helps homeless people with food and a place to stay tournament (noun) a number of games or contests that involve many players or teams

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 What is the main idea of this Article?

An 8-year-old boy wants to help people. A homeless 8-year-old boy became a state chess champ. An 8-year-old chess player fled Nigeria. A homeless 8-year-old chess player moved to the U.S.

Question 2 Think about the Article. Since people gave money to help Tani's family, then __________.

Tani's family plans to use the money to help other immigrants. The family started working at a shelter. Tani got to go to a state chess tournament. Tani made plans to leave Nigeria.

Question 3 Think about the Article. Which took place first? This question asks about when events happened. It does not ask where in the Article the events show up. Look back at the Article for clues, like dates.

Tani's family fled Nigeria. Tani won a big chess tournament. Tani stayed in a shelter in the U.S. Tani's family moved into an apartment.

Question 4 Which two words have opposite meanings? Only some of these words are used in the Article.

Shelter and apartment Wants and hopes Gave and took Game and story

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. With enough hard work, you can do anything.

• Agree • Disagree

Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) What is the main idea of the Article? Give at least three details that back it up. How did these details help you to better understand the main idea? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

A Plan to Plant a Trillion Trees (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer)

One group is working to slow climate change by planting trees. The group's leader says people should stop talking about climate change and start doing something about it. What do you think about the group's saying?

"Stop talking. Start planting."



Photo credit: Plant-for-the-Planet Felix Finkbeiner started Plant-for-the-Planet when he was 9.

TUTZING, Germany (Achieve3000, April 30, 2019). Felix Finkbeiner is 21. He's from Germany. He has a plan: Plant a trillion trees. That's 1,000 billion. Why plant trees? They help slow climate change. They take in and store the gas carbon dioxide (CO2). This helps. Too much CO2 in the air is one cause of climate change.

Finkbeiner began his work in 2007. He was in fourth grade. He started a group. It's called Plant-for-the-Planet. Kids in Germany joined. They began planting trees. Now, kids around the world are helping, too.

Video credit: Alexis Garcia/Plant-for-the-Planet Edited for length

Dictionary climate change (noun) changes in Earth's climate over time

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions)

Question 1 What is this Article mainly about?

Too much carbon dioxide in the air A trillion is the same as 1,000 billion. Planting trees to help slow climate change The group Plant-for-the-Planet in Germany

Question 2 Which two words have almost the same meaning? Only some of these words are used in the Article.

Tree and grade Group and kid Join and leave Plant and grow

Question 3 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells about how Felix Finkbeiner wants to slow climate change?

[Felix Finkbeiner] has a plan: Plant a trillion trees. Felix Finkbeiner is 21. He's from Germany. [Trees] take in and store the gas carbon dioxide (CO2). Too much CO2 in the air is one cause of climate change.

Question 4 Which of these is an opinion? An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.

Felix Finkbeiner is planting too many trees. Kids in Germany joined Plant-for-the-Planet. Felix Finkbeiner started Plant-for-the-Planet. Trees take in and store carbon dioxide.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?)

Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.

"Stop talking. Start planting."


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Describe Felix Finkbeiner and his plan to help slow climate change. Should more people plant trees? Why or why not? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

Chillaxin' at About 1,320,000 Feet (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Astronauts sometimes stay in space for a long time. In their free time, they do a lot of the same things we do. What do you think?

Everything is cooler if it's done in a spacesuit!

• Do you agree or disagree? Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: Joseph M. Acaba/NASA

Astronauts in space watch the latest TV shows. They also work out, play games, and listen to music.

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION, Outer Space (Achieve3000, June 3, 2019). Some astronauts live in space on the International Space Station (ISS). These astronauts are super busy. But they do get some free time.

What do they do with it? Lots of things. They work out. They read. They play games. They listen to music. And they Skype with family.

Astronauts also watch TV. And they have hobbies. Like what? Writing and taking photos.

Yes, astronauts on the ISS do many things that we do. But somehow, everything seems cooler in a spacesuit! Video credit: Courtesy of NASA

Dictionary hobby (noun) something people do for fun

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

Astronauts in space can Skype with family. Astronauts in space have time to do fun things. Astronauts in space play games and watch TV. Astronauts in space wear cool spacesuits.


Busy and free Work and play Listen and hear Some and many

Question 3 The Article says:

They work out. They read. They play games. They listen to music. And they Skype with family.

This passage helps the reader to know __________.

Life in space is boring Research in space is important Being an astronaut is hard Astronauts do fun things

Question 4 Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

There aren't many ways to have fun in space. Astronauts do not like reading and writing. In some ways, life in space is like life on Earth. Astronauts cannot talk to people on Earth.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. Everything is cooler if it's done in a spacesuit!


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) What do ISS astronauts do in their free time? What would you do in your free time if you visited the ISS? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer. t About 1,320,000 Feet

Communicating, LEGO Style (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Louis Braille invented Braille. It helps people who are blind or unable to see well read and write. What do you think of this quote by Louis Braille?

"Braille is knowledge, and knowledge is power."

• Do you agree or disagree? Step 2: Article (Read the Article)

Photo credit: The LEGO Group. This is an independent site not authorized or sponsored by the LEGO Group.

LEGO's new "Braille Bricks" will help children learn Braille.

PARIS, France (Achieve 3000, August 5, 2019). It's 1819. You're in the French army. There's danger. So no talking! It's also dark. You create a way to send messages: "night writing." It uses raised dots for letters. Soldiers can "read" with their fingertips.

Soldier Charles Barbier did just that. Then Louis Braille built on the idea.

Braille was blind. In 1824, he changed night writing to use six dots. It's called Braille. Children with vision problems learn it. But it's dying out.

So LEGO made "Braille Bricks." What are they? They look like LEGO bricks. But the dots form Braille letters. Kids can play. They can learn Braille!

The Smithsonian Institution contributed to this story. (Copyright 2019 Smithsonian Institution. Reprinted with permission from Smithsonian Enterprises. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any medium is strictly prohibited without permission from Smithsonian Institution.) Video Credit: The LEGO Group. This is an independent site not authorized or sponsored by the LEGO Group.

Dictionary vision (noun) the ability to see : sight or eyesight

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. Because Louis Braille could not see, __________.

he created a code so he could read he used his hands for talking LEGO wrote a book about him LEGO made Braille Bricks for him


There's danger. So no talking! It's also dark. You create a way to send messages: "night writing."

Which means almost the same as create? make see like want

Question 3 Look at these passages from the Article. Which tells how Braille Bricks help children?

They can learn Braille! It's called Braille. Braille was blind. They look like LEGO bricks.

Question 4 Which question is not answered by the Article?

How was "night writing" read? How was Braille started? Why was "night writing" made? When was Louis Braille born?

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. "Braille is knowledge, and knowledge is power."


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Imagine you are telling a friend all about Braille. What would you say? Be sure to talk about the history of Braille. Also talk about LEGO's new Braille Bricks. Use facts and details from the lesson in your answer.

Cooking Gets Crazy (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Some people say that you can cook in a dishwasher. What do you think?

Dishwashers are for cleaning dishes, not cooking food.



Photo credits: Jc_Dh/iStock/Getty Images (left) and StockImages_AT/Getty Images (right) You can cook food in a dishwasher or a coffee pot.

HARLAN, Iowa (Achieve3000, February 20, 2019). Can you cook without a stove, oven, or microwave? You can! But be careful! Ask an adult to help. Coffee Maker Cooking

Coffee makers boil water. It fills a basket. Coffee drips into a pot. But there's more. Try cooking veggies in the basket. Make rice in the pot.

Gooey Goodness Irons get hot. They can press shirts. But they can also press sandwiches. Try a grilled cheese. Wrap it in foil. Less mess. Then, press! Dishwasher Dining Put food in a closed jar. Run it in the dishwasher. The heat cooks and cleans! Used with permission of Popular Science Copyright© 2019. All rights reserved. Video Credit: Avery Penner, used with permission Published on Mar 25, 2016 Edited for length

Dictionary

boil (verb) to become so hot that water turns into steam drip (verb) to let drops fall foil (noun) very thin piece of metal used for covering food

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 The Article talks mainly about __________.

Using a coffee maker Eating sandwiches Asking adults for help Cooking in different ways

Question 2 Ann wants to know more about cooking. She should look __________.

At a picture of a microwave In a story about growing veggies On a website with recipes In a dictionary, under "food"

Question 3 Which word means the opposite of boil, as it is used in the Article?

Get Clean Freeze Help


Coffee makers boil water. It fills a basket. Coffee drips into a pot. What does this show?

How coffee makers are different How coffee makers are cleaned How coffee makers work How coffee makers break

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement.

Dishwashers are for cleaning dishes, not cooking food.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response)

Explain how coffee makers, irons, and dishwashers can be used to cook food. Would you ever do this? Why or why not? Use facts and details from the lesson in your answer.

Droids at Your Service (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Robots will be working at the 2020 Summer Olympics. They will be serving food and showing people to their seats. What do you think?

Someday, robots will be able to do everything people can do.



Photo credit: AP/Kyodo News

This woman is being helped by HSR and DSR.

TOKYO, Japan (Achieve3000, March 19, 2019). The 2020 Olympics is coming. It will be in Tokyo. There will be many workers. Not all will be human. Some will be robots. This is part of the Tokyo 2020 Robot Project. Its goal is to show off Japan's robots.

HSR is one robot. It has an extendable arm. And it can talk! What will HSRs do? They'll show people to their seats. They'll serve food. DSR is another bot. DSRs will help HSRs. They'll get people's food.

Toyota made these bots. Panasonic made something, too. It's a robotic exoskeleton. Workers will wear this. It'll help them lift things.

Information for this story came from AP. UPDATE: April 2020 Click here

Dictionary exoskeleton (noun) a hard outer layer that supports, protects, or covers the body extendable (adjective) able to be made longer

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 What is this Article mainly about?

The 2020 Olympics will be in Tokyo. Toyota made a robot that can talk. Panasonic made a robotic exoskeleton. Robots will be working at the 2020 Olympics.

https://portal.achieve3000.com/kb/lesson/preview/?lid=19581&step=11&c=1


It's a robotic exoskeleton. Workers will wear this. It will help them lift things. Which must mean the opposite of lift, as it is used above?

Use Move Drop Get

Question 3 Which of these is a fact?

HSRs are the coolest robots because they can talk. The Olympics is a great time to try out robots. Toyota should give its robots better names. Panasonic made a robotic exoskeleton.


What will HSRs do? They'll show people to their seats. They'll serve food. DSR is another bot. DSRs will help HSRs. They'll get people's food.


What work robots will be doing at the Olympics That robots will be cooking all the food at the Olympics How often DSRs will get food for HSRs at the Olympics How many people will be watching the Olympics

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. Someday, robots will be able to do everything people can do.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Describe the Tokyo 2020 Robot Project. Is this a good way to show off Japan's robots? Why or why not? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

For Elephants, Smell Counts! (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) A study looked at Asian elephants. It found that their sharp sense of smell helps them size things up. What do you think about this?

Animals are smarter than most people think.



Photo credit: Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Thailand

These elephants are in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Scientists there did a study about elephants' sense of smell.

CHIANG RAI, Thailand (Achieve3000, June 12, 2019). The nose knows! Elephants have a strong sense of smell. They use it to communicate. They use it to find food.

That's not all. Scientists did a study. What did they find? Elephants can use their sense of smell to count. Yes, count!

How did the study work? Scientists tested six Asian elephants. They offered them two buckets. They had sunflower seeds inside. The elephants smelled both buckets. Then, they got to choose one. Guess what? They usually picked the one with the most seeds!

Video credit: Think Elephants International

Dictionary communicate (verb) to share information

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. How did the elephants know which bucket had more seeds?

They watched scientists fill the buckets. They lifted the buckets with their trunks. They smelled the buckets. They looked inside the buckets.

Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

Elephants use their sense of smell to communicate. Some elephants are from Asia. Elephants can use their sense of smell to count. Some elephants like sunflower seeds.


[The buckets] had sunflower seeds inside. The elephants smelled both buckets. Then, they got to choose one. Which must mean almost the same as choose, as it is used above?

Throw Roll See Pick


Elephants are afraid to take food from people. Elephants can see very well. Elephants can find food in the dark. Elephants do not like sunflower seeds.


Animals are smarter than most people think.



Tell about the study you read about in the Article. What did scientists find out? Use facts and details from the lesson in your answer.

From Little Havana to Chinatown (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) In some U.S. cities, neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy give people from different countries a little piece of home—from the food, to the art, to the music. What do you think?

It's important to stay rooted in where you came from.



Photo credit: Alexander Image/Shutterstock

People enjoy a Chinese New Year event in New York City's Chinatown.

MIAMI, Florida (Achieve3000, February 25, 2020). Cuban music. Cuban foods. Cuban art. It's all in Little Havana! That's a neighborhood in Miami. It's like a little piece of Cuba. But it's in the U.S.

And guess what? There are other neighborhoods like Little Havana. They're tied to the special heritage of different countries.

Take New York City's Chinatown. It has markets and museums. There's Chinese culture all around. And there's San Diego's Little Italy. What's there? Italian culture.

These neighborhoods are special. They show people different cultures. And that's not all. They help immigrants keep their heritage alive.

Dictionary culture (noun) the beliefs, customs, arts, etc., of a particular society, group, place, or time heritage (noun) the traditions, achievements, beliefs, etc., that are part of the history of a group or nation—usually singular immigrant (noun) a person who comes to a country to live there neighborhood (noun) a section of a town or city

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Which of these is an opinion? An opinion tells what a person thinks or feels. Others may not think this is right.

Little Italy has Italian culture. There's Cuban art in Little Havana. Any kind of Cuban food is tasty. New York has its own Chinatown.


Cuban music. Cuban foods. Cuban art. It's all in Little Havana!

This helps the reader to know __________.

what can be found in Little Havana why Little Havana is so big who shops in Little Havana where Little Havana is found


little and big museums and houses tied and made alive and new

Question 4 Hee Jin wants to know more about the shops in Little Italy. She should look __________.

in a TV show about Italian immigrants in New York on the website for San Diego's Little Italy in a dictionary under the word "shop" on a map showing where Italy is


It's important to stay rooted in where you came from.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Give three reasons why someone would like to visit neighborhoods like Little Havana, Little Italy, and Chinatown. Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

Leftovers Again? Hurray! (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Nearly one billion people do not have enough to eat. Still, one-third of the world's food is thrown away. What do you think of this quote by Pope Francis?

"Throwing away food is like stealing from the table of those who are poor and hungry."



Photo credit: Fertnig/iStock/Getty Images

Over one-third of the world's food gets thrown away, like these carrots.

BERLIN, Germany (Achieve3000, July 31, 2019). You're hungry. You want restaurant food. But you're low on cash. What do you do? In Europe, you can use Too Good To Go. It's a smartphone app. Restaurants post their leftovers on it. They're half off.

Why sell leftovers? One-third of the world's food is thrown away. And many people don't have enough to eat. Another problem: Some food waste is burned. This sends carbon dioxide into the air. And that adds to climate change.

So companies made apps. The apps fight food waste. One's called OLIO. It's for U.S. families. They can share food with neighbors.

Information for this story came from AP.

Dictionary carbon dioxide (noun) gas that is produced when people and animals breathe out or when certain fuels are burned and that is used by plants for energy leftover (noun) food that has not been finished at a meal and that is often served at another meal

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. What happens when food is burned up?

Many people do not have enough food. Carbon dioxide is taken out of the air. Families can share food with neighbors. Climate change becomes worse.

Question 2 Which is not in the Article?

who made the OLIO app what adds to climate change how to find a low-cost meal how neighbors can share leftovers


Why sell leftovers? One-third of the world's food is thrown away. And many people don't have enough to eat. Which means the opposite of sell?

eat forget buy move

Question 4 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that thrown-out food can be bad for the planet?

You're hungry. You want restaurant food. But you're low on cash. What do you do? So companies made apps. The apps fight food waste. One's called OLIO. [Burning food waste] sends carbon dioxide into the air. And that adds to climate change. In Europe, you can use Too Good To Go. It's a smartphone app.


"Throwing away food is like stealing from the table of those who are poor and hungry."



Explain why food waste is a problem. What's the best way to fix this problem? Why would your plan work? Use information from the Article in your answer.

Making a Mark (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Suppose we all tried to make a difference in the lives of others. Would the world be a better place? What do you think?

Anyone, even young people, can make a difference.



Photo credit: ©2019 North Rowan Middle School

Mrs. Fleming and her class met with Ngor Kur Mayol. He's a refugee from Sudan.

SPENCER, North Carolina (Achieve3000, May 17, 2019). Do you want to help others? You can! The students in Mrs. Fleming's class did. They're in 7th grade.

They learned about terrible world events. They read Achieve3000 articles. They watched movies.

Then, they spoke to Lubo. Lubo is a refugee. He's from Sudan. He left during a civil war. Sudan still has problems, he said.

The students wanted to help. They held a walkathon. Each person who walked raised money. The money went to schools in South Sudan.

The students hope to help every year.

Video Credit: Achieve3000

Dictionary civil war (noun) fighting between two groups within the same country refugee (noun) someone who moves from place to place to find a safe home


Students reading articles Students going to school Students helping South Sudan Students watching movies


Students and refugees Watched and saw Events and articles Learned and wanted

Question 3 Rona wants to learn more about today's problems in Sudan. She would find the most information by __________.

Looking at pictures of a walkathon Looking at a list of refugees Watching a movie about life in Sudan Finding Sudan on a map

Question 4 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells about the future of Mrs. Fleming's class?

The students hope to help every year. The money went to schools in South Sudan. They held a walkathon. Then, they spoke to Lubo.


Anyone, even young people, can make a difference.



Why did Mrs. Fleming's class want to help Sudan? Describe what the class did to help. Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

Marsai Martin Is a Boss (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) At 14 years old, actress Marsai Martin has the kind of job she has been dreaming of since she was a little girl. What do you think of this quote by filmmaker Walt Disney?

"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to [go after] them."



Photo provided by Universal. Permission to use.

Photo credit: Jabari Jacobs This is Marsai Martin.

LOS ANGELES, California (Achieve3000, April 15, 2019). Check out Marsai Martin's memes. There's one for every mood. In one, she's wearing sunglasses. She's holding a coffee cup. Mood: Feeling like a boss!

That's what Marsai is: a boss. She's only 14. But she's an executive producer.

Marsai produced the movie Little. It came out in April 2019. She starred in it, too.

Marsai wants girls to know: Your ideas matter. "You're never too young to dream BIG!"

Dictionary executive producer (noun) someone who helps pay for a movie to be made; this person calls many of the shots meme (noun) a picture with words that is shared on the Internet

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 The Article talks mainly about __________.

The movie Little Ideas that matter Moods Marsai Martin


Meme and movie Cup and cake Big and fast Young and old


Little is the funniest movie ever made. Marsai Martin is an executive producer. Little stars a girl who is 14 years old. Marsai Martin is a boss.

Question 4 Which passage from the Article best shows that Marsai Martin thinks about others?

Marsai wants girls to know: Your ideas matter. That's what Marsai is: a boss. Marsai produced the movie Little. It came out in April 2019. In one, she's wearing sunglasses. She's holding a coffee cup.


"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to [go after] them."


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Retell this Article in your own words.

Students Take to the Streets (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Students around the world are skipping school to protest. They say that world leaders aren't doing enough to fight climate change. What do you think?

Students can make a difference when it comes to solving global problems.



Photo credit: Daniel Reinhardt/dpa via AP

This is Greta Thunberg at a protest.

BERLIN, Germany (Achieve3000, March 20, 2019). It's Friday. Many students are skipping school. The reason? They're protesting. They want leaders to do more about climate change.

It started with Greta Thunberg. She's from Sweden. She began protesting on Fridays in September 2018. At the time, she was only 15. And she was alone.

But word got out. Thousands of students joined Greta. They're from all over the world. They protest in their own cities.

Greta doesn't think they'll back down. "We want a future," she said.


Dictionary climate change (noun) changes in Earth's climate over time that happen naturally or because of things people do future (noun) a time that has not yet come protest (verb) expressing disapproval of or objection to something

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. Since word got out about Greta Thunberg's protests, then __________.

Schools were closed on Fridays. Thousands of students joined her. Leaders are doing less. Students are protesting every day.


Many students skip school. Students around the world are protesting on Fridays. Greta Thunberg is from Sweden. Greta Thunberg began protesting in September 2018.


Protest and explain Down and away Skipping and missing Future and past

Question 4 Kim wants to know what a protest is. She could find this out by using a __________.

Map Calendar Globe Dictionary

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. Students can make a difference when it comes to solving global problems.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Describe the student protests. How did they start? Include information from the Article in your answer.

Superheroes Bearing Gifts (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Many movie stars and other well-known people work hard to support good causes. What do you think?

Famous people should always give their time and money to help others.



Photo credit: AP/Richard Shotwell/Invision

Movie stars band together for a good cause.

ANAHEIM, California (Achieve3000, April 15, 2019). Avengers: Endgame is a movie. It has big stars. They play superheroes. Robert Downey, Jr., is one. He plays Iron Man. This is the last Avengers movie. The superheroes have banded together for the last time. But the actors are not done. They're still helping people.

The stars joined up in April 2019. They went to Disney California Adventure Park. They made an announcement. They said money had been donated. How much? More than $5 million. It will help sick kids.

Who donated the money? Different companies. Disney was one.

"It's a time to give back to these…kids," said Downey, Jr. "[They] inspire us."


Dictionary announcement (noun) the act of making something known to people donate (verb) to give something, often to a good cause inspire (verb) to give someone hope or make someone want to do something

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. Why did the actors get together?

They wanted to play superheroes. They wanted to watch a movie. They wanted to help sick kids. They wanted to go on park rides.


Avengers: Endgame has big stars. Some actors went to a Disney park. The Avengers movies are done. Money was given to sick kids.

Question 3 Which means the opposite of donate, as it is used in the Article?

Take Find Make See


The money is for sick children. Robert Downey, Jr., plays Iron Man. Different companies gave money. Superhero movies are the best.

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. Famous people should always give their time and money to help others.



Tech Skills Are Their Superpowers (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) What do you think of this quote by teacher Jenny Arledge?

"Technology can become the 'wings' that will allow [teachers and students] to fly farther and faster than ever before—if we will allow it."



Photo credit: Julie Schwartz

Fourth grade student Theo helps a teacher.

BUFFALO, New York (Achieve3000, June 4, 2019). Schools are using more computer devices. But things can go wrong. Parts can break. Apps can stop working.

Who fixes these problems? At some schools, students do!

At a Massachusetts high school, students run a Help Desk. They fix problems. They give talks about technology. They even have a help desk show. It's online.

In Buffalo, New York, high school students worked at schools. This was during the summer. They cleaned devices. They got them all set up. And guess what? They got paid.

Many students like this work. They say it's fun. And they help others. That makes them feel good.

Information for this story came from AP. Video Credit: Associated Press

Dictionary device (noun) a tool or machine made for a certain purpose technology (noun) the use of science to solve problems and make new things


Students say fixing computers is fun. Students in Massachusetts run a Help Desk. Students are fixing computer problems. Students in New York cleaned devices.


Some students have a help desk show. Working on devices is fun. Apps can stop working. Schools are using more computer devices.

Question 3 Which word means almost the same as device, as it is used in the Article?

Laptop Book Paper Pen


Teachers don't like to use technology in school. Some students know a lot about computers. The students at the Help Desk get paid. Many schools do not use devices.


"Technology can become the 'wings' that will allow [teachers and students] to fly farther and faster than ever before—if we will allow it."



Thanks, But No Thanks (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) In 1861, the King of Siam wanted to send a large gift to the United States. But U.S. President Abraham Lincoln nicely said no. What do you think?

If someone offers you a gift, you should take it.



Photo credit: AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit

This is a photo of the thank-you letter that President Lincoln sent to the King of Siam.

BANGKOK, Thailand (Achieve3000, May 24, 2019). The Asian elephant is endangered. But there were once many of these animals. In 1861, the King of Siam (now Thailand) wanted to be friendly. He offered to send the U.S. a gift. It was elephants. He thought people could use them. They could work. They could carry things.

Abraham Lincoln was president. He got the letter. He wrote back. He turned down the gift. Why is that? Elephants would not do well in America. Its climate wasn't right for elephants. Also, the U.S. had steam engines. Work animals weren't needed.

Lincoln wanted to be friendly. He wrote a nice letter to the king. He signed it: "Your good friend, Abraham Lincoln."


Dictionary climate (noun) the average weather conditions in a place over a long time endangered (adjective) in danger of becoming extinct offer (verb) to say you are willing to do something for someone

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. Why didn't Lincoln take the king's elephants?

The elephants cost too much money. The elephants would be hard to move. Lincoln did not know the King of Siam. Lincoln didn't think they would be useful.

Question 2 What is this Article mainly about?

A gift offered by a king How people moved things in 1861 How the U.S. used engines A letter Lincoln wrote


Lincoln wanted to be friendly. He wrote a nice letter to the king. Which must mean the opposite of nice, as it is used above?

Kind Short Long Mean

Question 4 Jack wants to learn more about elephants. He should look __________.

Under "gift" in a dictionary On a map of Thailand On a website about pets In a book about animals


If someone offers you a gift, you should take it.



Retell this Article in your own words.

The Ice Cream Report (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) A new study says that eating ice cream every day may be good for you. What do you think?

If a study says so, it must be true.



Photo credit: Gerenme/iStock/Getty Images Plus

A new study says to pile on the scoops as high as you like. But can this really be good for you?

LAKEWOOD, New Jersey (Achieve3000, February 25, 2019). Here's the scoop. There's a study. It's new. It's about ice cream. It says ice cream is good for you. You should eat it every day. Woo hoo!

Gotcha! April Fools!

Sorry about that. Eating lots of ice cream isn't good for you. Don't feel bad. Many people have been tricked by April Fools hoaxes.

When did April Fools' Day start? No one knows. It might have started in ancient Rome. Or it could have started in the 1500s.

There have been many April Fools news stories. They spread fibs. Like what? One was about pasta trees. Another was about UFOs.

Dictionary ancient (adjective) of long ago hoax (noun) a trick or joke

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Rachel wants to know more about the pasta trees. She should look __________.

In a book about April Fools news stories In a book about where pasta comes from In a book about ancient Rome In a book about how April Fools' Day started


Started and ended Good and bad Hoax and study Ancient and old

Question 3 Which of these is a fact?

Ice cream is better than cake. Jokes are played on April Fools' Day. April Fools' Day is a lot of fun. It's wrong to play jokes on others.



Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.

That people enjoy eating ice cream How April Fools' Day got started That an ice cream story was just a joke How hard it is to fool people


If a study says so, it must be true.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Think about April Fools' Day. Retell this news story as if you were telling someone how it started. Talk about some April Fools hoaxes, too. Use describing words from the Article in your answer.

The Lessons of Peter Tabichi (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Some people say that the most rewarding jobs are those that help others. These jobs can make people feel good about themselves. What do you think?

The most rewarding jobs are those that help others.



Photo credit: The Varkey Foundation

Peter Tabichi smiles after winning the Global Teacher Prize.

NAKURU, Kenya (Achieve3000, April 2, 2019). Keriko Secondary School is in Kenya. It has a great teacher. His name is Peter Tabichi. He teaches math and science.

Tabichi helps people. He makes money as a teacher. He gives much away. He helps the school. He helps the poor.

Keriko is a top school in Kenya. Many of its students go to college. That's because of Tabichi.

In March 2019, Tabichi got an award. He won the Global Teacher Prize. It came with $1 million. Tabichi will use this. He'll help the school. He'll help more people.

Information for this story came from AP. Video credit: The Varkey Foundation Edited for length

Dictionary college (noun) a school that people go to after high school global (adjective) having to do with the whole world


Students in Kenya going to college A top school in Kenya Studying math and science A great teacher


Peter Tabichi got a prize in 2019. Peter Tabichi is the best teacher ever. Peter Tabichi won $1 million. Peter Tabichi teaches math and science.


Won and lost Math and science Teaches and gives Award and prize

Question 4 Ann wants to know more about Kenya's past. She should look __________.

In a history book about countries of the world At the website for Keriko Secondary School On a map of Kenya Under "country" in a dictionary


The most rewarding jobs are those that help others.



Who is Peter Tabichi? Why did he win the Global Teacher Prize? Use facts and details from the Article in your answer.

The Return of the Mega Bee (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Scientists found a bee in Indonesia. This bee isn't seen very often. The scientists took pictures. But they won't say where in Indonesia they found the bee. What do you think?

When it comes to rare insects, scientists should tell everything they know.



Photo credit: ©Clay Bolt/claybolt.com

This is a honey bee and a Wallace's giant bee.

LABUHA, Indonesia (Achieve3000, March 12, 2019). Think of bees. They're pretty small, right? Not always, it turns out. Meet the Wallace's giant bee. It's the world's largest. Alfred Wallace documented the rare species. That was in 1858. He found it in Indonesia.

Then scientists struck honey gold again. They found another in 2019. This was also in Indonesia. But scientists won't say where. Why keep it secret? Hunters may want it.

For now, the Wallace's giant bee keeps buzzing.

Dictionary document (verb) to make a record of something, often by writing information down or taking a picture rare (adjective) not found very often species (noun) a group of living things that can breed with each other

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Jax wants to know more about bees. He should look __________.

At a map of Indonesia At a photo of a Wallace's giant bee In a dictionary, under the word "giant" In a science book

Question 2 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells why scientists won't say where they found their bee?

This was also in Indonesia. They found another in 2019. Alfred Wallace documented the rare species. Hunters may want it.


Many people will visit the spot where the giant bee was found in 2019. Scientists want to make sure the Wallace's giant bee is kept safe. Scientists believe the giant bee can be found all around the world. Most people wouldn't spot a Wallace's giant bee among other bees.


Meet the Wallace's giant bee. It's the world's largest. Which must mean the opposite of largest, as it is used above?

Smallest Strongest Fastest Loudest

Step 4: After Reading Poll (Did you change your mind?) Now that you have read the article, indicate whether you agree or disagree with this statement. When it comes to rare insects, scientists should tell everything they know.


Step 5: Thought Question (Write Your Response) Write a letter to a friend. Talk about the Wallace's giant bee. Explain why it is said to be a rare species. Be sure to talk about the latest discovery of the bee. Use describing words from the Article, such as "buzzing."

Today's Special: Insects (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Around the world, many people eat insects. What do you think?

It's important to try new foods.



Photo credit: tbradford/E+/Getty Images

Insect dishes on display at a market.

DENVER, Colorado (Achieve3000, February 27, 2019). Crickets for dinner! Would you eat them? Many Americans might not. But many people around the world eat insects every day. Some want Americans to eat insects, too.

Why eat insects? They're good for you. They have protein. And there's more. Insects are also good for the planet. Chicken and cattle farms use a lot of land and water. Insects are tiny. They need less land and water.

Still, not everyone wants to eat insects. Terry Koelling didn't. He went to an insect farm. He looked at the insects. But he would not eat them.

Later, Koelling went to dinner. He ate a dish with insects.

"[It's] great!" he said. He was surprised.

Information for this story came from VOA. Video Credit: Voice of America

Dictionary protein (noun) a substance in some foods and drinks that helps people grow muscles and heal tissues

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 According to the Article, why was Terry Koelling surprised?

He ate a dish with insects, and it was great. He went to a farm and looked at some insects. He found out that many people eat insects. He saw that cattle farms use a lot of water.

Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to say that __________.

Some kinds of farms use a lot of water. Insects are good to eat, and they're good for the planet. Chicken and cattle farms take up land. Terry Koelling visited an insect farm.


Cattle and animal Great and tasty Crickets and insects More and fewer


Some people eat insects every day. Terry Koelling ate insects for dinner. Insects have protein in them. Insects taste much better than chicken.


It's important to try new foods.



Describe insect farming. How is it different from raising cattle or chickens? Do you think more Americans will start eating insects? Why or why not? Use facts and details from the lesson in your answer.

Whose Mountain Is It, Anyway? (150L) Step 1: Before Reading Poll (Write Your Answer) Some scientists are building the world's largest telescope. They want to put it on Hawaii's tallest mountain. This will be good for science. But many Native Hawaiians are against this idea. The mountain is important to their history. What do you think?

Making changes for science is worth it.



Photo credit: Courtesy TMT International Observatory

This is what the planned telescope might look like.

MAUNA KEA, Hawaii (Achieve3000, March 5, 2019). Scientists are building the TMT. It's a telescope. It will help scientists. They'll learn about stars and planets.

The TMT needs a home. Mauna Kea is a mountain. It's Hawaii's tallest one. Some say it's a great spot for the TMT.

The Kanaka Maoli disagree. They're Native Hawaiians. Mauna Kea is important to them. They believe it's home to the gods of their culture.

The Kanaka Maoli tried to stop the TMT. They went to court. They lost.

But this isn't the end. The Kanaka Maoli aren't giving up.


Dictionary court (noun) a place where law cases are heard culture (noun) the beliefs or way of life of a group of people telescope (noun) a device that is looked through; it makes faraway objects appear closer

Step 3: Activity (Answer the Questions) Question 1 Think about the Article. How are the TMT scientists and the Kanaka Maoli the same?

Both hope to stop the TMT from being built in Hawaii. Both want to build new telescopes. Both are interested in Mauna Kea. Both think Hawaii's tallest mountain is a good place for the TMT.


Mauna Kea is in Hawaii. Mauna Kea is a mountain. The Kanaka Maoli went to court. The TMT sounds great.


Build and stop Great and wonderful Mountain and home Planets and stars

Question 4 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why scientists want to build the new telescope on Mauna Kea?

They believe it's home to the gods of their culture. They're Native Hawaiians. The Kanaka Maoli tried to stop the TMT. Some say it's a great spot for the TMT.


Making changes for science is worth it.



Why do some people want to build the TMT on Mauna Kea? Why are other people against this? Do you think the court made the right ruling? Why or why not? Use facts and details from the Article to back up your answer.

Lexile 150

ANSWER KEY

A Master in the Making Answer key Question 1

What is the main idea of this Article?

B A homeless 8-year-old boy became a state chess champ. Question 2

Think about the Article. Since people gave money to help Tani's family, then __________.

A Tani's family plans to use the money to help other immigrants. Question 3

Think about the Article. Which took place first?

A Tani's family fled Nigeria. Question 4

Which two words have opposite meanings?

C Gave and took

A Plan To Plant a Trillion Trees Answer Key Question 1

What is this Article mainly about?

C Planting trees to help slow climate change Question 2

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

D Plant and grow Question 3

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells about how Felix Finkbeiner wants to slow climate change?

A [Felix Finkbeiner] has a plan: Plant a trillion trees. Question 4

Which of these is an opinion?

A Felix Finkbeiner is planting too many trees.

Chillaxin’ at about 1,320,000 Feet Answer key Question 1

Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

B Astronauts in space have time to do fun things. Question 2

Which two words have almost the same meaning?

C Listen and hear Question 3


D Astronauts do fun things Question 4

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C In some ways, life in space is like life on Earth.

Communicating, LEGO Style Answer key

Question1 Think about the Article. Because Louis Braille could not see, __________.

A he created a code so he could read Question 2 Which means almost the same as create?

A make Question 3 Look at these passages from the Article. Which tells how Braille Bricks help children?

A They can learn Braille! Question 4 Which question is not answered by the Article?

D When was Louis Braille born?

Cooking Gets Crazy Answer key Question 1

The Article talks mainly about __________.

D Cooking in different ways Question 2

Ann wants to know more about cooking. She should look __________.

C On a website with recipes Question 3

Which word means the opposite of boil, as it is used in the Article?

C Freeze Question 4

The Article says: Coffee makers boil water. It fills a basket. Coffee drips into a pot.

What does this show?

C How coffee makers work

Droids at Your Service Answer key Question 1


D Robots will be working at the 2020 Olympics. Question 2 Which must mean the opposite of lift, as it is used above?

C Drop Question 3 Which of these is a fact?

D Panasonic made a robotic exoskeleton. Question 4 The Article says:

What will HSRs do? They'll show people to their seats. They'll serve food. DSR is another bot. DSRs will help HSRs. They'll get people's food.


A What work robots will be doing at the Olympics

For Elephants, Smell Counts! Answer key Question 1

Think about the Article. How did the elephants know which bucket had more seeds?

C They smelled the buckets. Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

C Elephants can use their sense of smell to count. Question 3 The Article says:

[The buckets] had sunflower seeds inside. The elephants smelled both buckets. Then, they got to choose one. Which must mean almost the same as choose, as it is used above?

D Pick Question 4 Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

C Elephants can find food in the dark.

From Little Havana to Chinatown Answer key Question 1


C Any kind of Cuban food is tasty. Question 2 The Article says:

Cuban music. Cuban foods. Cuban art. It's all in Little Havana! This helps the reader to know __________.

A what can be found in Little Havana Question 3 Which two words have opposite meanings?

A little and big Question 4 Hee Jin wants to know more about the shops in Little Italy. She should look __________.

B on the website for San Diego's Little Italy

Leftovers Again? Hurray! Answer key Question 1

Think about the Article. What happens when food is burned up?

D Climate change becomes worse. Question 2 Which is not in the Article?

A who made the OLIO app Question 3 The Article says:

Why sell leftovers? One-third of the world's food is thrown away. And many people don't have enough to eat. Which means the opposite of sell?

C buy Question 4 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows that thrown-out food can be bad for the planet?

C [Burning food waste] sends carbon dioxide into the air. And that adds to climate change.

Making a Mark Answer key Question 1


C Students helping South Sudan Question 2 Which two words have almost the same meaning?

B Watched and saw Question 3 Rona wants to learn more about today's problems in Sudan. She would find the most information by __________.

C Watching a movie about life in Sudan Question 4

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells about the future of Mrs. Fleming's class?

A The students hope to help every year.

Marsai Martin Is a Boss Answer key Question 1

The Article talks mainly about __________.

D Marsai Martin Question 2 Which two words have opposite meanings?

D Young and old Question 3 Which of these is an opinion?

A Little is the funniest movie ever made. Question 4

Which passage from the Article best shows that Marsai Martin thinks about others?

A Marsai wants girls to know: Your ideas matter.

Students Take to the Streets Answer key Question 1

Think about the Article. Since word got out about Greta Thunberg's protests, then __________.

B Thousands of students joined her. Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

B Students around the world are protesting on Fridays. Question 3 Which two words have opposite meanings?

D Future and past Question 4

Kim wants to know what a protest is. She could find this out by using a __________.

D Dictionary

Superheroes Bearing Gifts Answer key Question 1

Think about the Article. Why did the actors get together?

C They wanted to help sick kids. Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. Which is most important to say?

D Money was given to sick kids. Question 3 Which means the opposite of donate, as it is used in the Article?

A Take Question 4


D Superhero movies are the best.

Tech Skills Are Their Superpowers Answer key Question 1


C Students are fixing computer problems. Question 2 Which of these is an opinion?

B Working on devices is fun. Question 3 Which word means almost the same as device, as it is used in the Article?

A Laptop Question 4

Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

B Some students know a lot about computers.

Thanks, But No Thanks Answer key Question 1

Think about the Article. Why didn't Lincoln take the king's elephants?

D Lincoln didn't think they would be useful. Question 2 What is this Article mainly about?

A A gift offered by a king Question 3 The Article says:

Lincoln wanted to be friendly. He wrote a nice letter to the king. Which must mean the opposite of nice, as it is used above?

D Mean Question 4

Jack wants to learn more about elephants. He should look __________.

D In a book about animals

The Ice Cream Report Answer key Question 1

Rachel wants to know more about the pasta trees. She should look __________.

A In a book about April Fools news stories Question 2 Which two words have almost the same meaning?

D Ancient and old Question 3 Which of these is a fact?

B Jokes are played on April Fools' Day. Question 4 The Article says:


Why is this passage in the Article? It helps the reader to know __________.

C That an ice cream story was just a joke

The Lessons of Peter Tabichi Answer key Question 1


D A great teacher Question 2 Which of these is an opinion?

B Peter Tabichi is the best teacher ever. Question 3 Which two words have opposite meanings?

A Won and lost Question 4

Ann wants to know more about Kenya's past. She should look __________.

A In a history book about countries of the world

The Return of the Mega Bee Answer key Question 1

Jax wants to know more about bees. He should look __________.

D In a science book Question 2 Look at these passages from the Article. Which one tells why scientists won't say where they found their bee?

D Hunters may want it. Question 3 Think about the Article. The reader can tell that __________.

B Scientists want to make sure the Wallace's giant bee is kept safe. Question 4 The Article says:

Meet the Wallace's giant bee. It's the world's largest. Which must mean the opposite of largest, as it is used above?

A Smallest

Today's Special: Insects Answer key Question 1

According to the Article, why was Terry Koelling surprised?

A He ate a dish with insects, and it was great. Question 2 Let's say you are retelling this Article. It is most important to say that __________.

B Insects are good to eat, and they're good for the planet. Question 3 Which two words have opposite meanings?

D More and fewer Question 4


D Insects taste much better than chicken.

Whose Mountain Is It, Anyway? Answer Question 1

Think about the Article. How are the TMT scientists and the Kanaka Maoli the same?

C Both are interested in Mauna Kea. Question 2 Which of these is an opinion?

D The TMT sounds great. Question 3 Which two words have almost the same meaning?

B Great and wonderful Question 4

Look at these passages from the Article. Which one shows why scientists want to build the new telescope on Mauna Kea?

D Some say it's a great spot for the TMT.

Documents

Lexile 150 - Achieve3000...Imagine you are telling a friend all about Braille. What would you say? Be sure to talk about the history of Braille. Also talk about LEGO's new Braille