Differentiated reading comprehension worksheets for three retellings of the traditional tale The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, suitable for readers aged 6 to 13 years.
Includes:
3 leveled reading passages to accommodate different reading abilities:
A challenging higher level text with complex vocabulary, more details, and additional literary devices (4 pages)
A middle level text that has been shortened for easier reading, while keeping the key details, main plot points, and essence of the higher text (2 pages)
A simplified lower level text for easier reading, using decodable words when possible, while keeping the key details, main plot points, and essence intact (2 pages)
➼ 22 accompanying worksheets differentiated across Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 levels, focusing on key literacy skills including:
Reading comprehension
Vocabulary
Sequencing
Cause and effect
Cloze (fill-in-the-blank) story summaries
Multiple choice comprehension sheets in SAT format, covering skills like identifying main ideas, details, sequence, inferences, vocabulary, true or false statements, cause and effect relationships, and author’s purpose
True/false
Crosswords
EAL versions
Answer sheets for all activities
Keep students engaged with texts tailored to their reading level, working within their zone of proximal development.
Use the leveled passages and activity sheets independently or together to differentiate instruction. This comprehensive resource allows you to meet the needs of every reader!
Transport students into the enchantment of the holidays with this illustrated retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s poignant classic, “The Little Fir Tree." Captivating visuals and focused questioning engage learners from grades 3 through 8 with this timeless tale that’s perfect for the Christmas season.
This versatile reading comprehension pack includes:
A vibrantly illustrated student retelling of the cherished story
Three SAT-style multiple choice quizzes assessing key details, sequencing, inferences, vocabulary, and author’s purpose
Five versions of written response sheets for differentiated assessment
Sequencing tasks to reconstruct plot order
Story summary gap fill (cloze) worksheets
Targeted vocabulary building exercises
Tap into the rich imagery and bittersweet nature of this iconic narrative with an immersive selection of visual, written, and questioning resources. Learners will connect with the text through tiered materials aimed at advancing literary appreciation and analysis skills. Share this poignant tale and usher students into the transcendent magic of reading this holiday season!
Would go great with: History of the Christmas Tree Reading
Looking for more holiday reading resources? Check out my other Christmas reading resources:
Night Before Christmas Poem Comprehension
Little Match Girl Christmas Story
The Nutcracker Christmas Worksheets
Christingles Fun Reading Activities
Immerse your learners in the enchanting world of Christmas with this delightful collection of five beloved holiday classics and a two non-fiction texts. Explore the magic of the season through the timeless words of Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” Hans Christian Andersen’s cherished tales, “The Little Match Girl” and “The Little Fir Tree,” the Grimm Brothers’ tale “The Elves and the Shoemaker,” and a lovely retelling of "The Nutcracker."
Non-Fiction Texts examine The History of The Christmas Tree and Christingles.
This captivating collection is complemented by a wide range of differentiated worksheets, ensuring that every learner can engage with the material at their own pace and level. From SAT-style multiple-choice questions to classic written responses, sequencing activities, cloze exercises, and vocabulary-building crosswords, these worksheets provide a comprehensive and joyful learning experience.
Share the magic of the season with your learners through this captivating collection of holiday classics and engaging worksheets.
Illuminate your classroom with the spirit of Diwali through this engaging 2-text bundle on the Indian festival of lights. It includes an information text vividly illustrating Diwali traditions and a retelling of the Hindu myth of Rama and Sita from the Ramayana epic.
Students will gain insight into the cultural traditions, rituals, mythology, and global celebrations that brighten this 5-day Hindu holiday, and understand how the triumph of light over darkness inspires the diya lamps, fireworks, and sweets that define this occasion. The bundle contains approximately 30 differentiated worksheets including multiple choice quizzes, cloze activities, sequencing tasks, and written responses catering to diverse needs from years 6-10. Bring the traditions and meaning of Diwali alive for your students with this illuminating 2-text bundle.
Two versions of differentiated Islam Information Texts plus lots of supporting activities and worksheets!
This download includes two versions of differentiated Islam overview information texts, each offering a comprehensive two-page overview of key aspects, including subheadings on Allah, The Shahadah, Muslim Prayer and Worship, Set Prayers (Salah), Prayers from the Quran, Islamic Rules, Hajj Pilgrimage, Ramadan, Eid Holidays.
(Throughout each text, the abbreviation SAWS follows the Prophet Muhammad’s name "Sallallahu alaihi wasallam,” meaning “Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him,” as a sign of respect to Muslims worldwide.)
This expansive Islam resource includes 2 differentiated texts (approximate year 7 and year 10 reading levels) and:
3 Levels of Multiple-Choice Quizzes (including a challenging 4-page version at a grade 10 level, and two other 2-page versions).
Differentiated Written Response Sheets: Accommodating various learning levels, these sheets include both detailed written responses and easily accessible single-word or short phrase answers.
2 Crossword Puzzles utilizing key learnings from the texts.
True or False question sheet
Islam Summary Missing Word Cloze Activity.
Equip your students with an overview of Islam through diverse activities that appeal to different learning styles and levels.
Ideal for years 6-11.
Download this resource now to enrich your teaching and captivate your students’ interest in the rich tapestry of Islamic culture and beliefs.
Includes answer keys.
Introduce students to Buddhist practices, beliefs, and iconic stories with this comprehensive Buddhism bundle.
The bundle includes:
Two leveled informational texts explaining Buddhist concepts, figures, and traditions.
Eight classic Buddhist tales that convey core teachings, including the birth and enlightenment of Buddha.
To build understanding, each text and story comes with extensive support materials:
Multiple choice and short answer quizzes
Close reading and critical thinking activities
Vocabulary practice like crosswords and matching
Written response and reflection prompts
Answer sheets
With differentiated readings, essential background knowledge, and beloved narratives, this bundle immerses students in Buddhist principles and history. Engaging stories, interactive activities, and visuals create memorable learning experiences about this globally influential religion.
Enhance lessons on Buddhism with this collection of eight beloved Buddhist stories. These skillfully written and beautifully illustrated tales cover essential stories that have shaped Buddhist beliefs and practices.
Included are:
The Birth of the Buddha
The Swan and the Arrow
The Four Sights of the Buddha
The Enlightenment of the Buddha
The First Sermon, Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dharma
Kisagotami and the Mustard Seed
The Story of Angulimala
The Death of the Buddha
Each of the eight stories functions as a stand-alone lesson on Buddhism or could be used as engaging literacy short story reading comprehension. Each story is written in an engaging and accessible style with supporting “Buddhist Insights” and “Words of Enlightenment” fact boxes, and is beautifully illustrated.
Each story comes with:
A double-sided multiple choice quiz
A double-sided written response paper
A single-sided written response paper
Answer sheets
These classic Buddhist tales will inspire students and expand their knowledge. By engaging with these beautifully crafted stories, students will gain deep appreciation for Buddhist teachings and traditions while building essential literacy skills and enriching their understanding of world cultures.
Would make great follow on lessons to my Buddhism Introduction Text
Please, also see my Sikhism resources and Jewish Stories
Discover the Devastating Impact of the Great Plague of 1665
Transport your students back in time to the harrowing year of 1665, when a deadly outbreak of plague ravaged the city of London. This engaging and meticulously researched resource brings to life the chilling account of the Great Plague, offering a rich tapestry of historical details, heart-wrenching tales, and enduring lessons.
As the plague spread through the overcrowded streets and alleyways, carried by flea-infested rats, Londoners found themselves in a desperate battle against the invisible yet lethal enemy. From the initial dismissal of the outbreak to the implementation of strict quarantine measures and the mass burial of victims in “plague pits,” your students will witness the unfolding horror and the resilience of a city pushed to the brink.
The aftermath of the Great Plague, though catastrophic, laid bare the harsh realities of poverty, lack of medical knowledge, and the vulnerability of densely populated urban centers. Students will explore the societal impacts, the ineffective remedies attempted, and the enduring legacy of this devastating event on public health and urban planning.
Through this captivating historical recounting, your students will not only gain a deep understanding of a pivotal moment in London’s history but also develop invaluable insights into themes of human resilience, the consequences of ignorance, and the transformative power of adversity.
Differentiated activities reinforce comprehension:
• 3 levels of SAT-style multiple-choice quizzes
Lower level: 2 pages
Middle level: 2 pages
Higher level: 3 pages
• 2 levels of written response sheets with a variety of engaging question types
• 1 classic style 13 question double-sided written response (13 traditional paragraph answers)
• Event sequencing activity with true/false questions
• Cloze summary activity
• 2 levels of Great Plague of London crossword puzzles
Lower level
Higher level
• Answer keys provided for all activities
Perfect for grades 6-11 across ELA, social studies, and history classrooms.
Let your students catch the contagious plague of historical curiosity with this immersive look at the Great Plague that swept through London.
Learn all about Saint Andrew: Scotland’s Patron Saint with this comprehensive set of reading worksheets. This extensive resource includes two levels of informational text telling the compelling narrative of Saint Andrew’s life, a story closely linked to Scottish history and culture, celebrated on St Andrew’s Day throughout Scotland and by Scottish communities worldwide.
These reading worksheets recount the life of St Andrew, from his humble beginnings as a fisherman in Galilee to his role as Jesus’ first apostle, his travels spreading Christianity, his martyrdom, and the legends surrounding how he became Scotland’s patron saint. The tale explores themes of faith, devotion, sacrifice, and the power of unwavering commitment.
This resource includes two double-sided, illustrated retellings of The Life of Saint Andrew biography, with an informative St Andrew’s Day fact box and St Andrew timeline, and supporting worksheets. The download offers two versions of the text:
A lower-level version appropriate for Years 4-6
An upper-level version with more details, aimed at Years 7-10
The Life of Saint Andrew is a crucial story in Scottish Christian tradition, demonstrating kindness, bravery, and the impact of living a life dedicated to faith and service. This legend led to St Andrew becoming the patron saint of Scotland, showing how a devoted life can inspire generations and shape national identity.
A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills:
2 levels of multiple-choice quizzes
3 levels of traditional written response
2 levels of fun mixed style quizzes (multiple choice, true or false, cloze, vocabulary linking, event sequencing, and written response)
2 Levels of St Andrew’s Biography cloze summary activity
4 versions of vocabulary-building crossword puzzles (i.e. 2 at each level)
Answer sheets for all activities
All supporting worksheets are differentiated to accommodate different learning levels.
Exploring this captivating legend develops cultural literacy about St Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, and the ethical principles that underpin Scottish Christian traditions of devotion and sacrifice. Ideal for Years 4-10 across English, History, and Religious Education curricula.
This resource is perfect for teaching about St Andrew’s Day (30th November), Christian Saints, or for units on Scottish history and culture.
Also available:
Saint George: England’s Patron Saint Reading Worksheets
Saint David: Wales’ Saint Reading Comprehension
Saint Patrick Biography
St. Nicholas Biography
Enhance your students’ understanding of grammar with this comprehensive set of Task Cards, Sorting Cards, and Worksheets designed to teach:
Countable and Uncountable Nouns,
Quantifiers (How Much/How Many),
and
Determiners (a, an, some, any).
What’s Included:
60 Task Cards for Countable and Uncountable Nouns
60 Task Cards for Quantifier Questions (How Much or How Many)
60 Task Cards for Determiners (a, an, some, any)
Sorting Cards for categorizing nouns as Countable or Uncountable
27 Differentiated Worksheets (A4 and A5 versions)
Differentiated
3 Levels of Difficulty: Tailored to different skill levels - Easier, Mild, and Tricky - ensuring all learners are challenged appropriately.
Engaging: Students can select the correct answer on each task card and record their responses on the provided answer sheets, making this activity perfect for individual practice, small group collaboration, or even homework assignments.
Sorting Cards:
Perfect for Sorting: Includes cards for categorizing nouns as Countable or Uncountable.
Versatile Use: These cards are not only great for sorting activities but can also be used for display purposes, enriching your classroom environment.
Differentiated Worksheets:
Comes with matching worksheets where learners can color or circle their answers- perfect for reinforcing concepts in class or at home.
With 180 task cards in total, differentiated activities, versatile sorting cards, and comprehensive worksheets, this set offers extensive practice for varied levels of learners.
An organised ZIP file with folders and clear file names is also included in the download.
Yom Kippur Bundle: The Golden Calf Story & Yom Kippur Information Text
Deepen your students’ understanding of Yom Kippur with this comprehensive bundle, combining two essential resources:
The Sin of the Golden Calf: Illustrated story with worksheets exploring this pivotal event’s connection to Yom Kippur’s origins.
Yom Kippur Information Text: In-depth guide covering significance, practices, and rituals, with diverse activities.
Features:
Illustrated storytelling and informative text
Multiple-choice quizzes, written responses, and crossword puzzles
Differentiated worksheets for various learning levels
Answer keys for all activities
Ideal for grades 5-11, this bundle provides a thorough exploration of Yom Kippur’s historical context, observances, and cultural importance. Perfect for ELA, social studies, and Jewish studies curricula.
Engage your students with this comprehensive package, promoting cultural literacy and interfaith understanding through the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.
Embark on a journey through Christmas past and present with my ‘Holiday Traditions Explored’ bundle. This educational package combines four insightful resources:
’The History of the Christmas Tree,’ tracing the evolution of Christmas trees from ancient times to the present.
’Christingles Information Text,’ which delves into the rich history and symbolism of Christingles since 1747, exploring their role in community gatherings and their ties to The Children’s Society charity.
’Saint Nicholas Biography,’ offering a detailed look at the life of Saint Nicholas, his contributions to Christmas traditions, and his lasting legacy as the beloved Santa Claus.
’Saint Nicholas Biography,’ Single PAge Version
Ideal for learners looking to understand the deeper meanings behind these festive customs.
Christianity Reading Comprehension - Differentiated for Key Stages 2–3
Introduce your students to the foundational beliefs, practices, and traditions of Christianity with this thoughtfully crafted reading comprehension resource. This pack provides an engaging and accessible exploration of Christianity’s core concepts through two carefully differentiated texts:
Lower Level (700L–850L, appropriate for Years 5–6): A simplified version designed for upper primary readers, with clear language and key concepts explained in an age-appropriate manner.
Higher Level (850L–1000L, appropriate for Years 6–8): A more advanced version for older or more proficient readers, featuring greater depth and complexity.
Both texts comprehensively cover essential topics, including the life and teachings of Jesus, Christian worship and prayer, the Bible, major festivals like Christmas and Easter, and ceremonies such as baptism and confirmation.
What’s Included: At each level, there are 7 (lower level) and 8 (higher level) supporting activities designed to engage and gently challenge:
Mixed-Style Question Sheets: Vocabulary matching, sequencing, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written responses to encourage critical thinking.
True or False Activities: Both levels include this activity to evaluate students’ understanding of key concepts.
Multiple Choice Quizzes: Two versions for the higher level and one for the lower level to assess comprehension interactively.
Cloze Summary Activity: Builds vocabulary while reinforcing key elements of the story.
2 Crossword Puzzles: Fun, interactive practice to enhance understanding.
Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice.
Answer Keys included.
This resource serves as an exceptional introductory overview of Christianity. Designed for differentiated instruction, it offers carefully crafted, accessible texts that provide students with a comprehensive exploration of Christian beliefs and practices. By developing critical reading skills alongside religious understanding, the resource becomes an invaluable educational tool for primary and lower secondary classrooms.
Looking for more differentiated resources on world religions? Check out these engaging and comprehensive reading comprehension packs:
Buddhism Reading Comprehension
Judaism Reading Comprehension
Sikhism Reading Comprehension
Islam Reading Comprehension Worksheets
Hinduism Reading Comprehension Worksheets
Explore the significance of interfaith harmony and shared human values with this engaging reading comprehension bundle! Perfect for Grades 4–9 (Lexile 950L–1050L), this bundle includes two captivating texts:
World Religion Day – Learn the history and significance of this Bahá’í-inspired celebration, promoting respect, tolerance, and diversity.
Golden Rule Across Religions – Discover how 12 world religions embrace kindness, empathy, and treating others as you’d wish to be treated.
What’s Included:
Mixed-style questions
Multiple-choice quizzes (differentiated levels)
True/False activities
Cloze summaries
Crossword puzzles
Written response sheets
Full answer keys
Promote critical thinking, cultural understanding, and open-mindedness with these ready-to-use resources!
Golden Rule Across World Religions Reading Comprehension
Engage your students with this thought-provoking and informative text about the Golden Rule. This resource explores how 12 religions and cultural traditions – including Baha’i Faith, Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Native American (Pima), Sikhism, Taoism, and Yoruba - each embrace the Golden Rule in unique ways. With direct quotes and concise explanations, the text highlights themes of kindness, respect, and empathy across diverse beliefs, fostering an appreciation for shared values that connect humanity.
Students will reflect on the importance of treating others the way they wish to be treated while learning about global spiritual traditions and cultural wisdom. The resource encourages tolerance, open-mindedness, and deeper understanding of different perspectives.
Lexile Level: 950L–1050L | Ideal for Years 5–10
What’s Included:
This comprehensive resource comes with 7 supporting activities that are designed to gently challenge and engage learners:
Double-Sided Mixed-Style Question Sheet: Includes vocabulary matching, cause-effect, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written responses to encourage critical thinking.
True or False Activities: Both levels feature this activity to evaluate students’ understanding of key concepts.
Double-Sided Multiple Choice Quizzes: Two versions for higher-level readers and one for lower-level readers to assess comprehension interactively.
Cloze Summary Activity: Reinforces vocabulary while helping students summarize key ideas.
2 Crossword Puzzles: One with a word box for support and one without for added challenge.
Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice.
Answer Keys: Included for all activities to support quick and easy marking.
Make learning about the Golden Rule a meaningful part of your classroom with this ready-to-use resource! Pair it with my World Religion Day: Interfaith Reading Comprehension Worksheets for a deeper exploration of interfaith understanding and shared values.
Looking for more differentiated resources on world religions? Check out these engaging and comprehensive reading comprehension packs:
Buddhism Reading Comprehension
Christianity Reading Comprehension
Judaism Reading Comprehension
Sikhism Reading Comprehension
Islam Reading Comprehension Worksheets
Hinduism Reading Comprehension Worksheets
The Legend of Nian – Differentiated Reading Comprehension
Bring the Legend of Nian to life in your classroom with this engaging and differentiated reading pack. Perfect for exploring the themes of Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year, this resource offers two levels of text to suit a range of abilities:
Lower Level (450L–650L, suitable for Years 3–5): Simplified language and clear sentence structure for younger or emerging readers, introducing key themes and traditions.
Higher Level (850L–950L, suitable for Years 5–7): More complex language and depth, offering a greater challenge while exploring cultural traditions and folklore.
Both texts provide a captivating retelling of the Legend of Nian and introduce traditions like firecrackers, red decorations, and dragon dances, helping pupils understand their cultural significance.
What’s Included:
At each reading level, students will find a variety of activities designed to deepen understanding and reinforce key concepts:
Mixed-Style Question Sheets: Vocabulary matching, sequencing, cloze passages, true/false activities, and written response questions to foster critical thinking.
True or False Activities: Evaluates understanding of cultural and story elements.
Multiple Choice Quizzes: Includes two versions for the higher level and one for the lower level to assess comprehension in an interactive way.
Cloze Summary Activity: Enhances vocabulary retention while reinforcing the main ideas of the story.
2 Crossword Puzzles: Fun and engaging activities to expand word knowledge and comprehension.
Traditional Written Comprehension Sheets: Double-sided for reflective practice, offering opportunities for deeper engagement with the text.
Answer Keys included for all activities, making this resource easy to implement and use.
Perfect for promoting cultural literacy, critical thinking, and differentiation in Years 3–7 classrooms.
For another Lunar New Year resource, check out CNY Zodiac Race: A Lunar New Year Story.
Base form, past simple and past participle of irregular verbs.
63 Verbs with illustrations - most commonly used verbs.
Flashcards, sorting cards and worksheets.
V1 V2 V3 version as well as base form, past simple and past participle version.
Complete your verb teaching toolkit with:
EAL Newcomer Essential Verbs
Verb Mats
Verb Tense Memory Games | Past Tense Cards
7 habitat cloze worksheets.
Habitats Included:
Desert Habitats
Oceans Habitats
Polar Habitats
Freshwater Habitats
Temperate Forest Habitats
Rainforest Habitat
Grassland Habitat
Each cloze worksheet is A4. Each worksheet has two differentiated versions (higher/lower) Carefully researched and written.
Suitable for KS2 and KS3.
I have uploaded PDF versions and publisher files (if you wish to edit)
ew flashcards (2 sets):
Illustrated version with 40 word/picture pairs
Unillustrated word-only version with 40 /ew/ words
/ew/ matching/memory game:
Match /ew/ words to illustrations (40 words)
/ew/ labeling worksheet:
Label 20 clipart illustrations with /ew/ words
Differentiation options, students can either:
Guess the /ew/ word for each illustration and spell independently
or
Read the word from the separate word box and copy it underneath the illustration
This gives students two options based on their spelling and reading levels: either creating the /ew/ words independently or copying from a word bank.
This collection of resources provides practice recognizing, reading and writing words with the /ew/ phonics pattern. The assortment of flashcards, games and worksheets allows for multisensory learning and differentiated instruction.
Phase 5 Phonics Mat
Story map graphic organisers
Character, setting, problem at BEGINNING
Attempts to solve problem in MIDDLE
Solution at END
2 page versions on PDF - one with 2 attempts to solve.
(Also included Publisher file if you wish to edit)