Click the links below to download the reading texts or open them online.

These two informational texts come from Unit 1 of our sixth grade ELA textbook. We will use them for our first writing assignments when school begins in August.

As you read, annotate the texts by underlining important ideas, circling unfamiliar words, and writing notes in the margins. You may use your annotations later to help you write an informational essay.

The questions in the margins are optional, but you should answer the questions at the end of each text. These questions will help you prepare for class discussion and writing.