Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Chapters 1-7

Reading Check

1. What does Ms. Williams gift to Derek on the last day of class?

2. What do Derek and Matt use to make fruit grenades?

3. Who does Carly take home for the summer?

4. What does Derek do to his dad while he’s sleeping?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Why does Derek draw illustrations in the margins?

2. What is Derek’s dad worried about?

3. How does Derek feel about reading books without pictures?

Paired Resource

Calvin & Hobbes: Why Calvin Does Not Like School

• Derek enjoys Calvin & Hobbes, and this comic demonstrates why he relates to Calvin: Calvin dislikes school because it doesn’t focus on things he’s interested in.
• Do you agree with Derek and Calvin about school? Why or why not?

“Explore Vocabulary as a Class Through This Illustration Activity”

• This Scholastic article explores reasons and detailed strategies for using illustration in vocabulary study, similar to the strategy that Derek uses.
• What strategies do you use to remember vocabulary/words? Do you think any of the strategies in this article might work for you?