Grades 7-8 Comprehension Questions and Actvities
These comprehension questions and activities can be used as:
- comprehension analysis (confirming understanding)
- reader’s/writer’s notebook activities
- informal assessment
COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS – FICTION
- Was the title appropriate for the context of the audiobook? Why or why not?
- Think of a gift you would give a character in the audiobook. What would you give and why?
- What kind of person is the main character? Give evidence
- Did the main character change during the audiobook? How?
- What did the author do to make the audiobook interesting or funny?
- What connections can you make between the characters and your life?
- What is the main idea or message?
- What figurative language was used?
- How did the language used in the audiobook add to your enjoyment or understanding?
- Did the author give any foreshadowing?
- What time period did the audiobook take place? How do you know?
- What did you think of the audiobook?
- How has the main character’s perspective changed throughout the audiobook?
- Has your perspective as a reader changed throughout the text?
- Are social issues and cultural groups represented accurately?
- What are the points of view of the characters and the narrator?
- Where and how did the author use symbolism?
COMPREHENSION QUESTIONS – NON-FICTION
- What information are you looking to gain from listening to this audiobook?
- What predictions can you make after listening to the beginning?
- What new words did you hear? Look them up
- Does this topic remind you of anything in your life?
- Have any of your ideas about the topic changed after listening to the audiobook?
- How does the author make this topic interesting?
- What did you notice about the language used in the audiobook? Did it add to your enjoyment or understanding?
- How did the layout/organization of the audiobook help your understanding?
- What is the author’s purpose for writing this?
- Why is the topic/event significant?
- What conclusions can you make from the information?
- What questions do you have about the topic now?
- What qualifications does the author have to write an informational text?
ACTIVITIES
- Prior to listening, make predictions about the audiobook based on the title
- Write the next chapter of the audiobook (at least 3 paragraphs)
- Write a recommendation to a friend about why they would enjoy this audiobook
- List the places in the audiobook that are important. Make a map of them
- Make a timeline of the events in the audiobook
- Pick one of the main characters and draw a shape that fits their traits. Write 3 reasons why you chose this shape.
- Create a crossword puzzle using 10 words from the audiobook
- Write a song and/or rap about the audiobook
- Perform a skit/play about the audiobook