Selection: F-6

F-6

Grade level: 6

Word count: 1783 words

Author: Mary R. Dunn

Synopsis: Flying high over the countryside, spies in hot air balloons could spot enemy troops.

Excerpt: "My husband has built at least five balloons of different sizes to use as observation posts," explained Mrs. Lowe. "Realizing the need to refuel the balloons frequently, he also invented and operated a portable gas generator that could be transported to positions near the battlefields."

The driver nodded and said, "What did I hear about your sending valuable intelligence reports about Falls Church?"

"That was an exciting encounter. I was in Arlington, Virginia, high above the countryside, and I was able to telegraph intelligence on the Confederate troops so that the Union soldiers could take aim at the enemy and maintain fire on them without even seeing them."

Question: Which two major contributions did Mr. Lowe make to the war effort?

1. He sent valuable information on enemy troop positions.
2. He invented a portable gas generator to fuel balloons.
3. He wounded his arm in a hot air balloon accident.
4. He fired on the enemy without even seeing them.
5. He spent most of his time on a barge in the river.

Selection: F-7

F-7

Grade level: 6

Word count: 1795 words

Author: Adapted from a story by O. Henry

Synopsis: A wise couple gives each other the greatest gift.

Excerpt: There was clearly nothing to do but throw herself down on the shabby little couch and howl, so Della did. Her cries echoed off the bare walls of the tiny apartment, which was a furnished flat at $8 per week. "Furnished" is a questionable word here, since the apartment was nearly empty, holding only the shabby couch, a sagging bed, and a small dining table with two chairs, all equally worn down with age and use.

Question: From what you have read, you can tell that Della and Jim lived in

1. a small, worn-down apartment.
2. a comfortable country cottage.
3. a large townhouse in the city.
4. a small room in Della's parents' house.

Selection: F-8

F-8

Grade level: 6

Word count: 1576 words

Author: Anonymous

Synopsis: Robin Hood's archery skill lands him on the wrong side of the law.

Excerpt: Now the Sheriff of Nottingham declared that he himself would bring this knave Robin Hood to justice, and for two reasons. First, he wanted the two hundred pounds. And second, the forester that Robin Hood had killed was of kin to him.

Question: The Sheriff of Nottingham planned to capture Robin because he wanted the

1. reward.
2. honor.
3. power.
4. deer.