4 Grade ELA Reading Test Prep

4th Grade
ELA Reading Test Prep
Materials Developed by Nancy Bruen for A+ Literature Guides.
© 2020 A+ Literature Guides. All rights reserved.

A classroom teacher who has purchased this product may photocopy the materials in this publication for
his/her classroom use only. Use or reproduction by a part or an entire school or school system, by for-
profit tutoring centers and like institutions, or for commercial sale, is strictly prohibited. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, transmitted, translated or stored without the express written
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printed in the United States of America.
1 |© 2018 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/A-Plus-Literature-Guides
4th Grade ELA/Reading Test Prep
Table of Contents
Self-Grading Google Form Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Passage 1 – Save the Pangolins! Text, Questions, and Answer Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Passage 2 – The Heart of Outer Space - Passage, Questions, and Answer Key. . . . . . . . . . . .14
Passage 3 – The New Student (Drama) – Passage, Questions and Answer Key. . . . . . . . . . . .26
A+ Literature Guides Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Terms of Use
Test Prep
The purchase of this project by A+ Literature Guides includes a limited

license for your classroom use. You may utilize this resource for each of
your students.
This product may not be copied and distributed outside of the scope of
your classroom.
The product may not be uploaded to the internet or stored in a public
retrieval system outside the scope of the product itself.
The Google Docs may not be used to create something new, and or
distributed in any way without the written consent of the author,
Nancy Bruen.
If you have any questions pertaining to the limited license for this
product, please contact me at mrsbruen@yahoo.com
Self-Grading Google Form Links
On this page you will find the links to the assessments. After you add each test to your
Google Drive, follow the directions to share with your classes.
Note: The point value equals 100. All of the points for each question are equal, except for the
last question which has less or more points to make the total value equal to 100. Feel free to
change the point values to suit your needs by pressing “answer key” on the question
template. IF YOU ADD OR DELETE QUESTIONS, THE POINT VALUES WILL HAVE TO BE
ADJUSTED.
Directions for assigning a quiz to your students AFTER uploading a quiz to your Google Drive:
1. Press “create an assignment”.
2. Name the Quiz.
3. Provide a due date and a time.
4. Press the drive button (next to the paperclip). The drive may take a moment
to load.
5. Find the quiz form, and press it as is, like a typical attachment.
6. Press “assign” on the bottom right (blue button)
7. You will now see how it will appear to students. They will be led to the form,
and will be able to click through it.
Link for #1 – Save the Pangolins:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/12gr2TyXkDb2NZzytrajkvfDXh9Meq69o6MLkQLz5GHs/copy
Teacher’s Note: The last two questions of the #2 test compare the passage to
the #1 test. Delete these questions if you skipped the #1 test.
Link for #2 – The Heart of Outer Space:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1SroohzPYLfByLByIsOP1dLCL-A3pFcgTxTNUEii4AVE/copy
Teacher’s Note: The last question of the #3 test compare all three passages.
Delete this question if you skipped test #1 and test #2.
Link for #3 –The New Student:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1JWNUudQ73v4X0WbCLEuZXZ3Lw4IjLqyVIjbd3YpTicg/copy
Read Passage 1 and answer the questions that follow.
Save the Pangolins!

by Nancy Bruen
What are pangolins? Though reptile in appearance, pangolins are actually mammals. In fact,
they are the only mammals fully covered in scales. These scales are used as protection from
predators. If attacked, pangolins will curl up into a tight ball like an armadillo. They will use
their sharp scales to defend themselves. They can be vicious! They are found in India, China,
south-east Asia, and parts of Africa.
Diet
Pangolins live on a diet of larvae, termites, and ants. They
are jokingly referred to as the “scaly anteaters”. Pangolins
have no teeth, so they eat all of their food using only their
tongues. Their tongues are so long, however, that they
can be stretched out longer than their own bodies!
Image 1
Mammal Trafficking
Although it is illegal to sell
pangolins, they are now the
most trafficked mammals in Asia
and Africa. Why are they in
demand? Their meat is
considered a delicacy. Also,
their scales are used for
medicine in some cultures. Image 2
They are supposed to be protected under national and international law,

Page 2
but people break these laws and sell them for profit.
During the years 2011 – 2013, an estimated 116,990-233,980 pangolins were sold for profit.
Some people feel that this is a very low estimate, and that in actually, many more were taken.
In many cases they are being sold per pound at exorbitant prices.
Image 3
This bar graph reveals the price per kilogram that people are selling pangolins. As you can see
from the various dollar amounts, the cost per kilogram varies depending upon who is the seller.
But regardless of the seller or profit made, it is still against the law. No one should be selling
these animals.
It is obvious that breaking this law is widespread. If it is common and out in the open, it
shouldn’t be difficult to stop.
Page 3
What Can Be Done?
What can be done to save the pangolins? Many

wildlife organizations have taken up the call to
protect pangolins. They are doing everything they
can to make sure that those who break the law
and traffick pangolins are stopped, and forced to
pay severe penalties.
Some wildlife organizations have come up with

interesting ways to fund their campaigns. One
organization started an Adopt a Pangolin drive.
Image 4
For a $55 donation, sponsors will be given a 12 inch stuffed pangolin toy. Children love to play
with these adorable toys! Smaller donations come with other gifts such as photos, certificates,
and pangolin gift bags. “Everyone needs to get involved,” says Brian Green, CEO of the Adopt a
Pangolin drive. “We will make progress if we all do our part.”
Since their classification recently went from “vulnerable” to “critically endangered”, any help
for this cause is deeply appreciated.
1. Place a check mark before the TWO unusual characteristics of pangolins.
________ They are mammals.
________ They are covered in scales.
________ They defend themselves.
________ Their diet consists of insects.
________ Their tongues are longer than their bodies.
2. “Why are they in demand? Their meat is considered a delicacy.” What is a “delicacy”?
A. sour and bad tasting
B. too tough to eat
C. delightful and pleasing
D. without flavor
3. What motivates so many people to sell pangolins?

A. They want to make money.
B. Pangolins make good pets.
C. They want to trade them for other animals.
D. Pangolins like to travel.
4. Part A – Which sentence from the 1st paragraph contains a simile?

A. Though reptile in appearance, pangolins are actually mammals.
B. In fact, they are the only mammals fully covered in scales.
C. These scales are used as protection from predators.
D. If attacked, pangolins will curl up into a tight ball like an armadillo.
5. Part B – What does the simile in Part A emphasize?

A. What pangolins like to eat.
B. How pangolins act.
C. Where pangolins live.
D. What pangolins have on their backs.
6. Part A – What information is provided by the bar graph?
A. How to buy a pangolin
B. Where to buy a pangolin
C. How much profits people are making from the sale of pangolins
D. The amount of fines people are being charged for selling pangolins
7. Part B – Why do you suppose the author included the graph mentioned in Part A?
A. because people want to know how to buy a pangolin
B. because people want to know where to buy a pangolin
C. to show why people are getting charged for illegally selling pangolins
D. to show how people are taking advantage of the pangolin population
8. What is the author’s purpose for writing the text?

A. to explain the unusual way pangolins eat
B. to help prevent the illegal sale of pangolins
C. to compare pangolins to other mammals
D. to help people understand why pangolins are sold
9. Which section contains information about the endangered status of pangolins?

A. Diet
B. Mammal Trafficking
C. Bar Graph
D. What Can be Done?
10. Place a check mark next to the sentence that BEST expresses the main idea of the text.
__________ Pangolins are interesting creatures.
__________ Pangolins should not be illegally sold.
__________ Pangolins toys are available for sale.
__________ Pangolins have funny eating habits.
11. Place check marks to show the purpose for the images in this text. Each line can have
more than one answer.
Image 1 Image 2 Image 3
To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ________ _______ _______
To compare the profits of selling pangolins ________ _______ _______
To share information about pangolins ________ _______ _______
To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin ________ _______ _______
12. Which donation incentive do you suppose would be most attractive to children?
A. photo certificate
B. signed receipt
C. stuffed toy
D. gift bag
13. Who from the text would NOT be in favor of fines for pangolin traffickers?
A. hunters
B. the author
C. police officers
D. wildlife organizations
14. Which is NOT a claim that the author made in the text?
A. People sell pangolins even though it is illegal.
B. Wildlife organizations are helping the pangolin cause.
C. Pangolins are considered “critically endangered”.
D. Restaurants do not sell pangolin meat.
15. The information in the “What Can Be Done” section could best be used in -
A. a poem
B. an advertising campaign
C. a text
D. a short story
Answer Key with CCSS – Save the Pangolins!
1. Place a check mark before the TWO unusual characteristics of pangolins.
________ They are mammals.
____X____ They are covered in scales.
________ They defend themselves.
________ Their diet consists of insects.
____X____ Their tongues are longer than their bodies. RI.4.1
2. “Why are they in demand? Their meat is considered a delicacy.” What is a “delicacy”?
A. sour and bad tasting
B. too tough to eat
C. delightful and pleasing RI.4.4
D. without flavor
3. What motivates so many people to sell pangolins?

A. They want to make money. RI.4.3
B. Pangolins make good pets.
C. They want to trade them for other animals.
D. Pangolins like to travel.
4. Part A – Which sentence from the 1st paragraph contains a simile?

A. Though reptile in appearance, pangolins are actually mammals.
B. In fact, they are the only mammals fully covered in scales.
C. These scales are used as protection from predators.
D. If attacked, pangolins will curl up into a tight ball like an armadillo. RI.4.4
5. Part B – What does the simile in Part A emphasize?

A. What pangolins like to eat.
B. How pangolins act. RI.4.3
C. Where pangolins live.
D. What pangolins have on their backs.
6. Part A – What information is provided by the bar graph?
A. How to buy a pangolin
B. Where to buy a pangolin
C. How much profits people are making from the sale of pangolins RI.4.7
D. The amount of fines people are being charged for selling pangolins
7. Part B – Why do you suppose the author included the graph mentioned in Part A?
A. because people want to know how to buy a pangolin
B. because people want to know where to buy a pangolin
C. to show why people are getting charged for illegally selling pangolins
D. to show how people are taking advantage of the pangolin population RI.4.6
8. What is the author’s purpose for writing the text?

A. to explain the unusual way pangolins eat
B. to help prevent the illegal sale of pangolins RI.4.6
C. to compare pangolins to other mammals
D. to help people understand why pangolins are sold
9. Which section contains information about the endangered status of pangolins?

A. Diet
B. Mammal Trafficking
C. Bar Graph
D. What Can be Done? RI.4.5
10. Place a check mark next to the sentence that BEST expresses the main idea of the text.
__________ Pangolins are interesting creatures.
_____X_____ Pangolins should not be illegally sold. RI.4.2
__________ Pangolins toys are available for sale.
__________ Pangolins have funny eating habits.
11. Place check marks to show the purpose for the images in this text. Each line can have
more than one answer. RI.4.7
Image 1 Image 2 Image 3
To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ________ ___X____ ___X____
To compare the profits of selling pangolins ________ _______ ___X____
To share information about pangolins ____X____ ___X____ ___X____
To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin ____X____ _______ _______
12. Which donation incentive do you suppose would be most attractive to children?
A. photo certificate
B. signed receipt
C. stuffed toy RI.4.1
D. gift bag
13. Who from the text would NOT be in favor of fines for pangolin traffickers?
A. hunters RI.4.6
B. the author
C. police officers
D. wildlife organizations
14. Which is NOT a claim that the author made in the text?
A. People sell pangolins even though it is illegal.
B. Wildlife organizations are helping the pangolin cause.
C. Pangolins are considered “critically endangered”.
D. Restaurants do not sell pangolin meat. RI.4.8
15. The information in the “What Can Be Done” section could best be used in –
A. a poem
B. an advertising campaign RI.4.9
C. a text
D. a short story
The Heart of Outer Space

by Nancy Bruen
Image 5
Leo and Draco are on a mission from the planet Ego. Their quest is to discover the
source of happiness, which is lacking on their planet. Planet Earth ranks number one in
happiness, so they hope to learn from them. If they discover the source of happiness on Earth,
then Ego will become a much happier planet.
“Make sure you keep your spacesuit on at all times,” advised Leo. “These suits are
designed to keep us from being seen or heard. As long as we have them on, we can observe
the earthlings without being discovered.”
“Of course!” replied Draco. “I know the drill. Who is our first target?”
“We are studying a girl named Lola. She appears to have bursts of
happiness that I want to study. Let’s land quickly and sneak into her
basement where she is watching television with her brother, Tim.”
Lola and Tim are on their couch watching PAW Patrol. Lola is opening
a Hershey bar. “Oh, my goodness!” she shouts. “This is so good! Eating
chocolate while watching television is my favorite part of the day. The
chocolate is so creamy and rich! It just makes me smile!”
Image 6
“Well, this has been a short mission. It is obvious that chocolate is the source of
happiness,” noted Draco.
“Wait! Lola and Tim seem to be having a tussle over the remote control! Let’s see what
happens.”
Page 2
“Give me that that remote!” yelled Tim. “You are getting chocolate all over it. It is my
turn to pick the next show.”
“It is not!” yelled Lola in return. “Stop kicking me! You are hurting me. Mom! Mom!
Timmy is being mean again!”
“Let’s get out of here!” exclaimed Leo. “Ego has enough problems without starting a
chocolate war. Happiness must be found another way. Let’s move on to our next target.
Mr. and Mrs. Bloom own a nice home in the suburbs, and they seem very happy. Our
spaceship can get us there in just a few minutes.”
“Honey look!” exclaimed Mrs. Bloom as

she sat in front of her computer. “My paycheck
has been electronically deposited into my bank
account, and I got a huge bonus! Now I can buy
that patio set for the backyard that I have been
dreaming about for months. It’s going to make
our yard look like an outdoor oasis!”
Image 7
“That’s it!” screamed Draco. “Money must be the root of all happiness. Look at that
gleam in her eyes! I’ve never seen anyone happier!”
“Hold on, Draco, hold on. Let’s not be hasty. Give it a few minutes. Here comes
Mr. Bloom.”
Mr. Bloom sits down in front of the computer. “Okay, now let’s do this logically. We
will pay off all of our outstanding bills first, and then with the leftover money you can buy
whatever patio set you want. Here we go. We have to pay the mortgage, click, your car
payment, click, my car payment, click, the gas and electric, click, click, the water and sewage,
click, click, and finally, your Stein Mart bill, click. Wow! That one was a whopper. What did you
buy at Stein Mart?” asked Mr. Bloom.
Page 3
“Never mind what I bought. What is the total? How much money do I have left to buy
the patio set?”
“Let’s see. Here is the total. You have exactly .29 cents to buy the furniture,” said
Mr. Bloom in a sad voice.
“I should have known!” cried Mrs. Bloom in disappointment. “I’m never going to get
that patio set.”
Leo thought about this situation for a few minutes before addressing Draco. “It appears
that the more money these Earthlings make, the more they buy. They never seem to get
ahead, and they never achieve happiness from it. It is obvious that money is not the key to all
happiness. We will have to move on. We only have one target left, so let’s hope we’ll find the
answer with him.”
“Who is our next target?” asked Draco.
“It is a man named Mr. Jones. He is very active, so we will really have to move fast in
order to keep up with him. Right now he is at a soup kitchen, providing food for those in need.
It’s only a few minutes away, so let’s get going.”
Mr. Jones is indeed at the soup kitchen. He is handing out food to dozens of people. His
smile never leaves his face, and he always has time
to say a word or two of encouragement. Leo and
Draco do have to stay on their toes to keep up with
him. After serving the food, he moves from table to
table to speak with people and give them words of
hope. As he leaves the facility, he spots a homeless
man on the curb. The man appears cold and
Image 8
hungry. Quick as a whip, Mr. Jones runs to his car and pulls out a warm blanket. After
he gently places the blanket on the man, he runs back into the soup kitchen to bring him some
Page 4
warm food. He leaves the man with a sandwich, a warm drink, a smile, and a few words of
encouragement.
“Where’s he going now?” asked Draco.
“Home, I suppose. Let’s follow him,” replied Leo.
Mr. Jones pulled into his own driveway, but immediately went next door to the shed of
his elderly neighbor, Mrs. Greenwood. He pulled out her lawnmower and weed wacker, and
had her whole yard looking wonderful in under an hour. Then he went home, poured a cold
drink, and went out back to throw a frisbee to his golden retriever, Casey.
“It’s been another great day, Casey!” he said to the retriever as he threw the frisbee.
“I’m so glad I got home in time to mow Mrs. Greenwood’s lawn. You wouldn’t believe all of the
people at the soup kitchen tonight! It was really crowded. I’m happy I was able to spare some
time and bring a little sunshine into their lives.”
“Would you look at that!” cried Leo. “We have our answer!”
“Dog ownership?” asked Draco.
“No! That’s only part of it. Think about Mr. Jones’ demeanor throughout the night. He
was the only one that we studied that maintained happiness. He was happy giving out food, he
was happy giving words of encouragement, he was happy helping the homeless man, and he
was happy mowing Mrs. Greenwood’s lawn. The key to happiness is giving to others. The more
we give, the happier we are. I remember an old saying from generations ago that went, ‘It is
better to give than to receive.’ That old saying makes sense now.”
“You are right!” replied Draco. “Our mission has been a success. Now let’s go home and
get ready for the weekend.”
“Great idea!” replied Leo. “But if we want to make our weekend a happy one, let’s
consider what we can do to help out others on our planet. Remember, a smile of
encouragement can go a long way.”
Name __________________________________________________________ Date ___________
1. What is Leo and Draco’s main mission?

A. to meet people on Earth
B. to meet Mr. Jones
C. to discover the source of happiness
D. to change the rules on their planet
2. “Think about Mr. Jones’ demeanor throughout the night. (Page 4)

What does the word “demeanor” mean?
A. visits
B. food preparation
C. friends
D. behavior
3. Place a check mark next to the TWO words that BEST describe Mr. Jones.
__________ helpful
__________ unkind
__________ rude
__________ shy
__________ cheerful
4. Write the 2nd event in the box.
Leo and Draco studied Lola.
Leo and Draco studied Mr. Jones
Leo and Draco fulfilled their mission.
5. How does the structure of “Save the Pangolins” compare to “The Heart of Outer Space”?
A. They are both informational text.
B. They are both narrative writings.
C. “Save the Pangolins” is informational text, and “The Heart of Outer Space” is a narrative.
D. “Save the Pangolins” is a narrative, and “The Heart of Outer Space” is informational text.
6. Leo and Draco are on a mission from the planet Ego. Their quest is to discover the source of
happiness, which is lacking on their planet.
Which word from this excerpt is a synonym for “mission”?
A. Ego
B. quest
C. source
D. lacking
7. Why Tim get angry at Lola?

A. He wanted the remote.
B. She didn’t share her chocolate candy bar.
C. He wanted to turn up the volume of the television.
D. She sat in his favorite seat.
8. What lesson did Leo and Draco learn about money?

A. It is the key to happiness.
B. People often argue about money.
C. It is more important to women than men.
D. The more you make, the more you buy.
9. Draw a line to the character that meets this objective.
I received a bonus.
Mr. Jones Mrs. Bloom Mr. Bloom Tim Lola
10. Part A – Which is the conflict of the story?
A. Leo and Draco want to discover the source of happiness on Earth.
B. Lola and Tim need to learn how to get along.
C. Mrs. Bloom never finds happiness from money.
D. Leo and Draco want to make it back to their planet, Ego.
11. Part B – Based on the answer from Part A, which excerpt from the story reveals the
climax?
A. “If they discover the source of happiness on Earth, then Ego will become a much happier
planet.”
B. It is obvious that chocolate is the source of happiness,” noted Draco.
C. “His smile never leaves his face, and he always has time to say a word or two of
encouragement.”
D. “Would you look at that!” cried Leo. “We have our answer!”
12. What is the theme of the story?

A. Two aliens go on an adventure.
B. The importance of sharing.
C. Happiness comes from helping others.
D. Friends are important.
13. How does the point of view of “Save the Pangolins” compare to “The Heart of Outer
Space”?
A. They both are 1st person.
B. They both are 3rd person.
C. “Save the Pangolins” is 1st person, but “The Heart of Outer Space” is 3rd person.
D. “Save the Pangolins” is 3rd person, but “The Heart of Outer Space is 1st person.
14. What do images 6, 7 and 8 have in common? Check all that apply.
_________ They show people in frustrating situations.

_________ They show happy people.
_________ They each show people in a soup kitchen.
_________ They reveal that happiness comes from money.
_________ They each represent a target of Leo and Draco.
15. Place check marks to choose whether each sentence describes Passage 1, Passage 2, or
both passages.
Passage 1 Passage 2 Both

Passages
Children are mentioned. ________ _______ _______
Children are characters. ________ _______ _______
Wildlife organizations are discussed. ________ _______ _______
both passages.

Passages
Encourages readers to help save animals. ________ _______ _______
Contains a lesson about helping. ________ _______ _______
Teaches readers that happiness comes from helping

others. ________ _______ _______
Answer Key – The Heart of Outer Space
1. What is Leo and Draco’s main mission?
A. to meet people on Earth
B. to meet Mr. Jones
C. to discover the source of happiness RL.4.2
D. to change the rules on their planet
2. “Think about Mr. Jones’ demeanor throughout the night. (Page 4)

What does the word “demeanor” mean?
A. visits
B. food preparation
C. friends
D. behavior RL.4.4
3. Place a check mark next to the TWO words that BEST describe Mr. Jones.
_____X_____ helpful RL.4.3
__________ unkind
__________ rude
__________ shy
____X______ cheerful
4. Write the 2nd event in the box.
Leo and Draco studied Lola.
Leo and Draco studied Mrs. Bloom. RL.4.5
Leo and Draco studied Mr. Jones
Leo and Draco fulfilled their mission.
5. How does the structure of “Save the Pangolins” compare to “The Heart of Outer Space”?
A. They are both informational text.
B. They are both narrative writings.
C. “Save the Pangolins” is informational text, and “The Heart of Outer Space” is a narrative.
RL.4.5
D. “Save the Pangolins” is a narrative, and “The Heart of Outer Space” is informational text.
6. Leo and Draco are on a mission from the planet Ego. Their quest is to discover the source of
happiness, which is lacking on their planet.
Which word from this excerpt is a synonym for “mission”?
A. Ego
B. quest RL.4.4
C. source
D. lacking
7. Why Tim get angry at Lola?

A. He wanted the remote. RL.4.1
B. She didn’t share her chocolate candy bar.
C. He wanted to turn up the volume of the television.
D. She sat in his favorite seat.
8. What lesson did Leo and Draco learn about money?

A. It is the key to happiness.
B. People often argue about money.
C. It is more important to women than men.
D. The more you make, the more you buy. RL.4.2
9. Draw a line to the character that meets this objective.
I received a bonus.
Mr. Jones Mrs. Bloom X RL.3.3 Mr. Bloom Tim Lola
A. Leo and Draco want to discover the source of happiness on Earth. RL.4.5
B. Lola and Tim need to learn how to get along.
C. Mrs. Bloom never finds happiness from money.
D. Leo and Draco want to make it back to their planet, Ego.
11. Part B – Based on the answer from Part A, which excerpt from the story reveals the
climax?
A. “If they discover the source of happiness on Earth, then Ego will become a much happier
planet.”
B. It is obvious that chocolate is the source of happiness,” noted Draco.
C. “His smile never leaves his face, and he always has time to say a word or two of
encouragement.”
D. “Would you look at that!” cried Leo. “We have our answer!” RL.4.5
12. What is the theme of the story?

A. Two aliens go on an adventure.
B. The importance of sharing.
C. Happiness comes from helping others. RL.4.2
D. Friends are important.
13. How does the point of view of “Save the Pangolins” compare to “The Heart of Outer
Space”?
A. They both are 1st person.
B. They both are 3rd person. RL.4.6
C. “Save the Pangolins” is 1st person, but “The Heart of Outer Space” is 3rd person.
D. “Save the Pangolins” is 3rd person, but “The Heart of Outer Space is 1st person.
14. What do images 6, 7 and 8 have in common? Check all that apply.
_________ They show people in frustrating situations.

____X_____ They show happy people. RL.4.7
_________ They each show people in a soup kitchen.
_________ They reveal that happiness comes from money.
____X_____ They each represent a target of Leo and Draco. RL.4.7
both passages. RL.4.9

Passages
Children are mentioned. ________ _______ ___X____
Children are characters. ________ ___X____ _______
Wildlife organizations are discussed. ____X____ _______ _______
both passages. RL.4.9

Passages
Encourages readers to help save animals. ____X____ _______ _______
Contains a lesson about helping. ________ _______ ___X____
Teaches readers that happiness comes from helping

others. ________ ___X____ _______
The New Friend

by Nancy Bruen
Image 9
Scene 1
(This scene takes place at the kitchen table.)
Narrator 1: Tim Rey and Mrs. Rey sit down to eat dinner.
Narrator 2: Mrs. Rey is exhausted, but Tim is excited and raring to go.
Mrs. Rey: Thanks for setting the table, Tim. How was your day?
Narrator 3: They begin eating.
Tim: (Dropping his fork excitedly) You are welcome! My day was the best!
Mrs. Rey: Why? What happened?
Tim: I met a new friend! His name is Arnie, and he’s from Ohio. We got along
right away! We have so much in common.
Mrs. Rey: That’s wonderful, Tim! I’m happy for you.
Tim: Thanks! Now I have someone to sit next to on the bus and at lunch. We
also walk to all our classes together.
Mrs. Rey: That’s great. Now remember, to have a good friend means to be a
good friend.
Tim: I know. You always say that.
Narrator 4: Tim and Mrs. Rey did the dishes together. Then, Tim went up to his
room to start his homework.
Scene 2
Narrator 5: The next day in school, Tim and Arnie were in art class.
Narrator 1: Bob, another student, was talking with Arnie when Tim sat down.
Arnie: Yes, a space alien.
Bob: Where are you from?
Page 2
Arnie: Mars.
Narrator 1: Just then, Tim jumped up and walked away.
Tim: (To the audience, as an aside.) Did you hear what I heard? Arnie is a space
alien from Mars? Do you think Bob is one, too? I’m going to sit at another table
and contemplate this situation. It is too much for me.
Narrator 2: Tim took a seat in the front of the room with two other students.
Narrator 3: After a few minutes, Arnie came over to talk with him.
Arnie: What are you doing over here?
Tim: Drawing, just like everyone else.
Arnie: I just wanted to know what time we were going to the movies tonight.
Tim: We’re not. I’m busy.
Arnie: Okay. (With a hurt look on his face, Arnie walked back to his table.)
Narrator 4: Tim avoided Arnie for the rest of the day.
Narrator 5: He didn’t even sit next to him on the bus ride home.
Scene 3
Narrator 1: Tim and Mrs. Rey are back at the dinner table.
Mrs. Rey: (To Tim) We have to eat fast so we can get you to the movies on time.
Tim: (Looking down at his food in embarrassment) I’m not going.
Mrs. Rey: What do you mean you’re not going? You were so excited to go to the
movies with Arnie.
Tim: I can’t go to the movies with him, and I can’t be friends with him anymore.
Mrs. Rey: What? What happened?
Tim: I overheard him talking to Bob in art class. I heard him saying something
about a space alien, and being from Mars.
Mrs. Rey: (Laughing) Come on, Tim. Don’t be ridiculous! Arnie is not a space
alien.
Tim: Yeah, then why did he say he was from Mars?
Mrs. Rey: Didn’t you say he was from Ohio? There is a town in Ohio called
“Mars”. He’s from Mars, Ohio.
Tim: (Sheepishly) Oops. Okay, but what about the space alien comment?
Mrs. Rey: Didn’t you say you were in art class at the time? Isn’t it possible that
he was talking about drawing a space alien rather than being a space alien?
Tim: I guess so . . . yes, you must be right.
Page 3
Mrs. Rey: What did I tell you about being a good friend?
Narrator 2: Tim dropped his fork and picked up his phone.
Scene 4:
Narrator 1: Tim frantically called Arnie.
Tim: (Holding the phone to his ear.) Hello, Arnie? It’s me, Tim.
Narrator 2: It took Arnie a minute to respond.
Arnie: (With concern) Why are you calling? You ignored me all day. I thought you
didn’t want to be friends anymore.
Tim: I’m sorry, Arnie. I just got the wrong idea about something.
Arnie: That’s okay. I guess I can forgive you this time. Just don’t make that same
mistake again.
Tim: I won’t. Say, are you still free to go to the movies tonight?
Arnie: Sure!
Tim: Great! The movie doesn’t start until 7:30, so we still have plenty of time to
get there.
Arnie: Sounds good! I’ll pick you up at 7:00.
Narrator 3: Arnie finished his own dinner and changed out of his school clothes.
Narrator 4: Then, he finished up his homework.
Arnie: (Texting Tim) I’m on my way!
(A loud, buzzing sound was heard outside Arnie’s window.)
Narrator 5: Arnie opened up his window and jumped into his spaceship. Then,
he buzzed off towards Tim’s house.
1. What is Tim doing in the beginning of the drama?
A. shopping with his mother
B. walking to art class
C. eating dinner with his mother
D. riding on the bus
2. Summarize the misunderstanding in the middle of the story.

A. Tim doesn’t have anyone to walk to class with.
B. Tim doesn’t think Arnie wants to go to the movies with him.
C. Tim thinks Bob is telling lies about him to Arnie.
D. Tim overhears a conversation, and thinks Arnie is a space alien.
3. Which BEST describes Arnie?

A. mysterious
B. funny
C. intelligent
D. bossy
4. Place a check mark before the words from Page 2 that helps you understand the word,
“contemplate”.
________Did you hear what I heard? Arnie is a ________space alien from Mars?
Do you think Bob is one, too? ________I’m going to sit at another table and
________contemplate this situation. __________It is too much for me.

A. Tim doesn’t want to be friends with Bob anymore.
B. Tim is afraid that his friend is a space alien.
C. Tim is unable to make friends on the bus.
D. Tim’s mother doesn’t want him to go to the movies.
6. Part B – Based on the answer from Part A, which excerpt from the drama reveals the
climax?
A. Tim: I met a new friend!
B. Mrs. Rey: What do you mean you’re not going?
C. Tim: I can’t go to the movies with him, and I can’t be friends with him anymore.
D. Tim: I’m sorry, Arnie. I just got the wrong idea about something.
7. What information can be gained from the stage directions in this drama?
Check all that apply.
___________ They provide the time of day.
___________ They explain who the characters are speaking to.
___________ They help explain how the characters are feeling.
___________ They emphasize where the school is located.
____________ They explain where the action is happening.
8. What information does Arnie know, but Tim is unaware?

A. Bob comes from the same state as Arnie.
B. Arnie really is a space alien.
C. Tim’s mother works with Arnie’s mother.
D. Bob really is a space alien.
9. Which dramatic element provides information on the sound of a vehicle?
A. the stage directions
B. the dialogue
C. the narrators
D. the bold print
10. Which is the BEST benefit of students reading this scene aloud as a class, rather than on
their own?
A. Students can read the stage directions.
B. Students can read the information in the italics.
C. More students can read ahead to the next scene.
D. More students can actively participate.
11. Which is the best theme for this scene?
A. Expect the unexpected.
B. A boy makes a new friend.
C. Don’t make friends in art class.
D. Always set the table.
12. Number the events in the drama from 1 – 5.
___________ Tim tells his mother about his new friend, Arnie.
___________ The audience learns that Arnie really is a space alien.
___________ Tim suspects his new friend is a space alien.
___________ Tim tells Arnie he doesn’t want to go to the movies.
____________ Tim sets the table for his mother.
13. Place check marks to show the various structures of Passages 1, 2, and 3.
Passage 1 – “Save the Pangolins”
Passage 2 – “The Heart of Outer Space”
Passage 3 – “The New Friend”
Passage 1 Passage Passage All

2 3 Passages
The passage is a play. ________ ________ _______ _______
The passage is informational text. _______ ________ _______ _______
The passage contains a problem. ________ ________ _______ _______
The passage is considered fiction. ________ ________ _______ _______
The passage contains dialogue. ________ ________ _______ _______
The passage is science fiction. ________ ________ _______ _______
14. Short Constructed Response Question: Using information on your knowledge of
structure, explain the elements of a drama compared to a short story. Support your answer
with evidence from the text.
Answer Key
1. What is Tim doing in the beginning of the drama?

A. shopping with his mother
B. walking to art class
C. eating dinner with his mother RL.4.5
D. riding on the bus
2. Summarize the misunderstanding in the middle of the story.
A. Tim doesn’t have anyone to walk to class with.
B. Tim doesn’t think Arnie wants to go to the movies with him.
C. Tim thinks Bob is telling lies about him to Arnie.
D. Tim overhears a conversation, and thinks Arnie is a space alien RL.4.2
3. Which BEST describes Arnie?
A. mysterious RL.4.3
B. funny
C. intelligent
D. bossy
4. Place a check mark before the words from Page 2 that helps you understand the word,
“contemplate”. RL.4.4
________Did you hear what I heard? Arnie is a ________space alien from Mars?
Do you think Bob is one, too? ________I’m going to sit at another table and
________contemplate this situation. _____X_____It is too much for me.

A. Tim doesn’t want to be friends with Bob anymore.
B. Tim is afraid that his friend is a space alien. RL.4.5
C. Tim is unable to make friends on the bus.
D. Tim’s mother doesn’t want him to go to the movies.
6. Part B – Based on the answer from Part A, which excerpt from the drama reveals the
climax?
A. Tim: I met a new friend!
B. Mrs. Rey: What do you mean you’re not going?
C. Tim: I can’t go to the movies with him, and I can’t be friends with him anymore.
D. Tim: I’m sorry, Arnie. I just got the wrong idea about something. RL.4.5
7. What information can be gained from the stage directions in this drama?
Check all that apply. RL.4.9
___________ They provide the time of day.
______X_____ They explain who the characters are speaking to.
______X_____ They help explain how the characters are feeling.
___________ They emphasize where the school is located.
______X______ They explain where the action is happening.
8. What information does Arnie know, but Tim is unaware?

A. Bob comes from the same state as Arnie.
B. Arnie really is a space alien. RL.4.7
C. Tim’s mother works with Arnie’s mother.
D. Bob really is a space alien.
9. Which dramatic element provides information on the sound of a vehicle?

A. the stage directions RL.4.9
B. the dialogue
C. the narrators
D. the bold print
10. Which is the BEST benefit of students reading this scene aloud as a class, rather than on
their own?
A. Students can read the stage directions.
B. Students can read the information in the italics.
C. More students can read ahead to the next scene.
D. More students can actively participate. RL.4.9
11. Which is the best theme for this scene?
A. Expect the unexpected. RL.4.2
B. A boy makes a new friend.
C. Don’t make friends in art class.
D. Always set the table.
12. Number the events in the drama from 1 – 5. RL.4.5
______2_____ Tim tells his mother about his new friend, Arnie.
_____5______ The audience learns that Arnie really is a space alien.
_____3______ Tim suspects his new friend is a space alien.
_____4______ Tim tells Arnie he doesn’t want to go to the movies.
______1______ Tim sets the table for his mother.
13. Place check marks to show the various structures of Passages 1, 2, and 3. RL.4.9
Passage 1 – “Save the Pangolins”
Passage 2 – “The Heart of Outer Space”
Passage 3 – “The Royal Breakfast”
Passage 1 Passage 2 Passage 3 All

Passages
The passage is a play. ________ ________ ___X____ _______
The passage is informational text. ___X____ ________ _______ _______
The passage contains a problem. ________ ________ _______ ___X____
The passage is considered fiction. ________ ____X____ ___X____ _______
The passage contains dialogue. ________ ________ _______ ___X____
The passage is science fiction. ________ ____X____ ___X____ _______
14. Short Constructed Response Question: Using information on your knowledge of
structure, explain the elements of a drama compared to a short story. Support your answer
with evidence from the text.
Dramas and short stories share many characteristics such the elements of plot,
characterization, and story elements. In addition to these, dramas also have
character tags, acts, scenes, and stage directions.
RL.4.9
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Mysteries-without-
Murders-Bundle-15-Mystery-Units-Reading-Passages-Activities-
4810638

4 Grade ELA Reading Test Prep

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ELA Reading Test Prep

Materials Developed by Nancy Bruen for A+ Literature Guides.

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Passage 1 – Save the Pangolins! Text, Questions, and Answer Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

A+ Literature Guides Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

The purchase of this project by A+ Literature Guides includes a limited

Save the Pangolins!

They are supposed to be protected under national and international law,

What Can Be Done?

What can be done to save the pangolins? Many

Some wildlife organizations have come up with

________ They are mammals.

________ They are covered in scales.

________ They defend themselves.

________ Their diet consists of insects.

________ Their tongues are longer than their bodies.

3. What motivates so many people to sell pangolins?

4. Part A – Which sentence from the 1st paragraph contains a simile?

5. Part B – What does the simile in Part A emphasize?

8. What is the author’s purpose for writing the text?

9. Which section contains information about the endangered status of pangolins?

__________ Pangolins should not be illegally sold.

__________ Pangolins toys are available for sale.

__________ Pangolins have funny eating habits.

Image 1 Image 2 Image 3

To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ________ _______ _______

To compare the profits of selling pangolins ________ _______ _______

To share information about pangolins ________ _______ _______

To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin ________ _______ _______

________ They are mammals.

____X____ They are covered in scales.

________ They defend themselves.

________ Their diet consists of insects.

____X____ Their tongues are longer than their bodies. RI.4.1

3. What motivates so many people to sell pangolins?

4. Part A – Which sentence from the 1st paragraph contains a simile?

5. Part B – What does the simile in Part A emphasize?

8. What is the author’s purpose for writing the text?

9. Which section contains information about the endangered status of pangolins?

_____X_____ Pangolins should not be illegally sold. RI.4.2

__________ Pangolins toys are available for sale.

__________ Pangolins have funny eating habits.

Image 1 Image 2 Image 3

To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ________ ___X____ ___X____

To compare the profits of selling pangolins ________ _______ ___X____

To share information about pangolins ____X____ ___X____ ___X____

To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin ____X____ _______ _______

The Heart of Outer Space

“Honey look!” exclaimed Mrs. Bloom as

“Who is our next target?” asked Draco.

“Where’s he going now?” asked Draco.

“Home, I suppose. Let’s follow him,” replied Leo.

“Dog ownership?” asked Draco.

1. What is Leo and Draco’s main mission?

2. “Think about Mr. Jones’ demeanor throughout the night. (Page 4)

4. Write the 2nd event in the box.

Leo and Draco studied Lola.

Leo and Draco studied Mr. Jones

Leo and Draco fulfilled their mission.

7. Why Tim get angry at Lola?

8. What lesson did Leo and Draco learn about money?

9. Draw a line to the character that meets this objective.

To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ____ _ _____

To compare the profits of selling pangolins ____ _ _____

To share information about pangolins ____ _ _____

To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin ____ _ _____

X They are covered in scales.

X Their tongues are longer than their bodies. RI.4.1

_X_ Pangolins should not be illegally sold. RI.4.2

To emphasize that people are selling pangolins ______ _X__ _X____

To compare the profits of selling pangolins ____ _ _X____

To share information about pangolins __X _X__ _X____

To emphasize an unusual feature of the pangolin X _ _____

Children are mentioned. ____ _ _____

Children are characters. ____ _ _____

Wildlife organizations are discussed. ____ _ _____

Encourages readers to help save animals. ____ _ _____

Contains a lesson about helping. ____ _ _____

_X_ helpful RL.4.3

Children are mentioned. ____ _ _X____

Children are characters. ______ _X ___

Wildlife organizations are discussed. X _ _____

Encourages readers to help save animals. X _ _____

Contains a lesson about helping. ____ _ _X____

contemplate this situation. __It is too much for me.

The passage is a play. ____ _ _____

The passage is informational text. ___ _ _____

The passage contains a problem. ____ _ _____

The passage is considered fiction. ____ _ _____

The passage contains dialogue. ____ _ _____

The passage is science fiction. ____ _ _____

______contemplate this situation. _X___It is too much for me.

__X_ They explain who the characters are speaking to.

__X_ They help explain how the characters are feeling.

X They explain where the action is happening.

_5__ The audience learns that Arnie really is a space alien.

_3__ Tim suspects his new friend is a space alien.

_4__ Tim tells Arnie he doesn’t want to go to the movies.

1 Tim sets the table for his mother.

The passage is a play. __ _X ___