Celebrate and understand Sikh Diwali with this engaging story reading and comprehension activity. Learn about the origins of the Sikh festival that commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind and 52 Hindu princes from unjust imprisonment by the Mughal emperor. The story highlights the triumph of truth over injustice, light over darkness, and law over persecution. Accompanying worksheets reinforce comprehension and provide opportunities for written response and analysis. This resource offers a culturally relevant way to teach reading skills while promoting understanding of the Sikh faith’s values of equality, justice, and religious freedom. Includes: Single sided retelling of Guru Hargobind & the 52 princes release from prison Double-sided 37 question multiple-choice quiz with various question types Story summary cloze activity 2 reading comprehension written response worksheets - one single sided version and a double sided version Answer sheets A great supplement to my Diwali information text worksheets

This Sikhism reading comprehension resource includes two differentiated informational texts and engaging activities suited for KS3 and KS4. It includes two Sikhism overview informational texts at basic and advanced reading levels. Both texts provide an overview of Sikhism divided into sections on Sikh Beliefs, What is a Gurdwara?, Who is a Granthi? The Ten Gurus, The Guru Granth Sahib, Prayers and Karah Parshad, The Five Ks, Sikh Festivals, The Golden Temple and more. Also included are: 3 Multiple-choice quizzes at varying lengths and difficulty levels to assess comprehension 4 versions of differentiated written response sheets with short answer and longer responses True or false worksheets Two crossword puzzles using key vocabulary and concepts Two word searches 2 summary cloze activities with missing words for students to fill in Answer sheets for all worksheets With differentiated reading passages, quizzes, and activity sheets, this comprehensive package is ideal for world religions, social studies, and ELA classes. The varied activities aim to engage students and reinforce Sikh learning. Pick up this useful resource to teach your learners about the history, beliefs and practices of Sikhism! To further enrich your learners’ understanding of Sikhism, explore Sikh Traditional Stories PACK A, and PACK B curated collections of engaging tales highlighting key values, historical events, and the teachings of Sikhism. These stories can serve as a wonderful supplementary resource to deepen cultural and historical insights.

Engage your students with the captivating Jewish account of the origins of the universe and life on Earth, as beautifully depicted in retelling of the biblical story of Creation. The Story of Creation is the foundational narrative in the Torah (first five books of the Hebrew Bible) that describes God’s formation of the heavens, Earth, and all living things over a period of six days, followed by a seventh day of rest and blessing. This powerful cosmological story establishes core Jewish beliefs about the divine source of all existence and the sanctity of the seventh day of the week. The story portrays God methodically creating light, sky, land, vegetation, celestial bodies, aquatic creatures, animals, and ultimately human beings - fashioned in God’s own image and given stewardship over the Earth. Despite its ancient roots, the creation story remains a seminal text exploring timeless concepts of the universe’s beginnings, humanity’s place in the world, and our sacred responsibility as ethical caretakers. A variety of differentiated, engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills in this resource: 3 levels of multiple-choice, SAT-style quizzes 2 levels of story summary cloze passages 2 levels of written response worksheets with fun & engaging mixed-style questions 2 levels of true or false question sheets 2 version of Story of Creation crossword Answer keys for all activities Exploring this formative narrative develops cultural literacy about the ancestral beliefs and wisdom that shaped Jewish spirituality, ethics, and traditions like Rosh Hashanah and Shabbat. David and Goliath Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

Engage learners and foster a profound respect and understanding of Sikhism through this collection of four pivotal traditional Sikh stories, which illuminate the roots and core principles of the Sikh faith. Included are the following four traditional Sikh stories: The Story of Guru Nanak and the Full Bowl of Milk: A well-known tale from the life of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, illustrating his teachings of kindness, humility, and the universality of goodness. Guru Hargobind’s Justice (traditionally known as Bandi Chhor Divas): Commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind along with 52 Hindu princes from imprisonment in the Gwalior Fort. This event is celebrated by Sikhs worldwide on the same day as Diwali but holds distinct significance in Sikh tradition. Emperor Akbar Visits Guru Amar Das: Highlighting the humility, equality, and principles of self-sufficiency practiced in Sikhism, particularly exemplified by Guru Amar Das and his langar, where all are welcomed and treated equally regardless of social status. Guru Nanak’s Needle: Illustrating the spiritual lesson of detachment from material wealth and the importance of focusing on good deeds and virtues rather than accumulating riches. Each story is written at an approximate middle school reading level, and accompanied by illustrations and “Did You Know?” boxes presenting fascinating facts about the Sikh religion. Each story comes with: Double-sided multiple-choice quizzes Double-sided written response comprehension sheets Shorter, single-sided written response versions for each story Detailed marking answer sheets Complements my Sikh Introduction worksheets superbly! Also see Sikh Stories Pack B Buddhist Stories and Jewish Stories

Immerse learners in the profound wisdom and values of Sikhism through this curated collection of four seminal traditional Sikh stories, which shed light on the origins and guiding principles of this faith. Included in this Pack B are the following four traditional Sikh narratives: “The Test of Humility: Guru Amar Das Chooses His Successor” - Depicting the virtues of humility, diligence, and devotion embodied by Jetha, who later became Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru. “Makhan Shah and the True Guru” - Chronicling Makhan Shah’s pious quest to identify Guru Har Krishan’s true successor, which led him to recognize Guru Tegh Bahadur as the rightful Guru, fulfilling a sacred prophecy. “The Taste of Truth: Guru Nanak and Malik Bhago” - Underscoring the importance of earning an honest livelihood through ethical means, as exemplified by the contrast between the bread of the greedy Malik Bhago and the simple yet wholesome bread of the truthful Bhai Lalo. “The Birth of the Khalsa” - Recounting the pivotal moment when Guru Gobind Singh initiated the Khalsa, a committed order of pure and valiant Sikhs, during the Baisakhi festival of 1699 at Anandpur Sahib, marking a defining event in Sikh history symbolizing righteousness, equality, and courage. Each narrative is crafted at an approximate middle school reading level, accompanied by vibrant illustrations and “Did You Know?” insights providing fascinating facts about the Sikh faith. Furthermore, the resource includes: Double-sided multiple-choice quizzes Double-sided written response comprehension sheets Abridged single-page written response versions Comprehensive marking answer keys Also see Sikh Stories Pack A Buddhist Stories and Jewish Stories

Immerse students in a key Buddhist narrative with this rich retelling of The Four Sights. Follow Siddhartha Gautama as he leaves behind his sheltered palace life and confronts the hard truths of old age, illness, death, and asceticism. After attaining enlightenment beneath the Bodhi tree, he became known as the Buddha. This accessible text presents the story at a middle school level, supplemented by vivid illustrations and illuminating Buddha quotes. Check comprehension through the varied activities catered to different abilities: A 39-question multiple choice quiz to evaluate understanding A cloze exercise focused on summarizing key details A higher-order 13-question written response activity A 9-question essential understanding worksheet Answer sheets Use this as a Buddhism lesson for RE or a literacy lesson analyzing this influential short story. Through an immersive experience of The Four Sights, pupils will gain insight into the Buddha’s life and spiritual awakening. Complements my Buddhism Introduction information text

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

Immerse your students in one of the most powerful and transformative stories in Jewish history! Moses and the Burning Bush is the biblical account of God calling Moses to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Though raised as an Egyptian prince, Moses never forgot his Israelite roots. After killing an Egyptian for beating a slave, Moses fled to Midian where he became a shepherd. One day in the wilderness, Moses encountered a burning bush that was not consumed by the flames. God spoke to him from the bush, revealing his plan for Moses to demand Pharaoh free the Israelites and guide them to the Promised Land. Despite humble beginnings as a baby set adrift in a basket to avoid being killed, Moses was prepared through divine providence to become a great leader. Though initially reluctant, feeling inadequate for such a mighty task, Moses ultimately embraced his calling to liberate his people with faith in God’s guiding hand. The story of Moses and the Burning Bush is a seminal event in Jewish history and is recounted in the Hebrew Bible as a testament to faith, leadership, and divine providence A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills: 33-question multiple-choice quiz, Two levels of story summary cloze passages, 17 written response questions with a variety of engaging question types (double-sided), 6 classic-style written response questions (single-sided for easy printing), 2 versions of a crossword puzzle, Answer sheets for all activities. Exploring this pivotal event develops cultural literacy about the ancestral origins and formative experiences that shaped Jewish identity, ethics, and traditions. David and Goliath Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

Captivate your students with the inspiring story of Queen Esther and her courageous stand against persecution, and explore the origins of the Purim festival. Queen Esther’s Story (from the Book of Esther) is the biblical account of Esther, a brave Jewish woman who became queen and saved her people from persecution. Facing the threat of genocide at the hands of the wicked Haman, Esther risked her own life to plead with the king and expose Haman’s evil plot. Through her courage and faith, Esther triumphed over adversity, leading to the establishment of the annual Jewish festival of Purim. The story of Queen Esther is a seminal event in Jewish history recounted in the Hebrew Bible as a testament to bravery, justice, and divine providence. Despite the dangers she faced, Esther’s actions guided by God’s plan ultimately saved her people from destruction. A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills in this 2 levels of multiple-choice, SAT-style quizzes (2-page and 3-page versions) 2 levels of story summary cloze passages 4 levels of written response worksheets (2 double-sided version with engaging mixed style question types, and 2 single-sided version with essential written response questions) 2 levels of true or false question sheets. 2 levels of Queen Esther Purim crosswords Answer sheets for all activities Exploring this pivotal narrative develops cultural literacy about the ancestral origins and formative experiences that shaped Jewish identity, ethics, and traditions. David and Goliath Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

This reading activity resource explores the seminal story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt in the 13th century BCE, under the leadership of Moses. This defining event laid the foundations for the development of Judaism and the Jewish people’s national identity. After enduring oppression and harsh labor under an unbending Pharaoh, God unleashed ten devastating plagues upon Egypt. When the final plague killed all firstborn sons, Pharaoh finally relented and expelled the Israelites. However, he soon regretted this decision and pursued them with his army. Through divine intervention, the Israelites crossed the parted Red Sea to escape, while the Egyptian forces drowned. The Israelites then wandered the wilderness for forty years, ceremonially receiving the Ten Commandments from God at Mount Sinai. This code of laws and ethics bounded their covenant as God’s chosen people destined for the Promised Land of Canaan after tribulations tested their faith. The Exodus story is told in the Hebrew Bible’s books of Exodus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, and is commemorated in the Jewish holiday of Passover. A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills: • 42-question multiple-choice quiz • Summary cloze passage with word bank • 17 written response questions, with a variety of engaging question types, for higher middle school learners • 18 written response questions, with a variety of engaging question types, for upper elementary learners • 42 Question True or False worksheet • 2 versions of crossword • Answer sheets for all activities Jewish holidays like Passover’s Seder meal incorporating symbolic foods further connect the narrative to religious observances. Exploring this pivotal event develops cultural literacy about the ancestral origins and formative experiences that shaped Jewish identity, ethics, and traditions. David and Goliath Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

The timeless story of David and Goliath imparts powerful lessons about courage, faith, and perseverance for all children. In this beautifully illustrated resource, a young shepherd boy named David boldly confronts the mighty Philistine warrior Goliath, embodying unwavering trust in God despite overwhelming odds. His improbable triumph demonstrates that inner strength can overcome even the most daunting adversities. This culturally and religiously significant tale holds immense importance in Jewish tradition. The informative fact box explores King David’s enduring legacy - revered as a wise ruler over a unified Israel, esteemed scholar, prolific composer of the Psalms, and vital ancestor from whose royal lineage the long-awaited Messiah will arise to usher peace and redemption for humanity. A variety of engaging reading comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills: 39-question multiple-choice quiz Summary cloze passage with word bank 17 written response questions, with a variety of engaging question types, for higher middle school learners 17 written response questions, with a variety of engaging question types, for upper elementary learners Answer sheets for all activities Utilize this versatile resource as a Jewish religious education lesson or reading comprehension exercise across curricula. Students will gain meaningful insights into this pivotal biblical narrative while developing crucial literacy skills. Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

Immerse your students in one of the most powerful and transformative stories in Jewish history! Joseph and His Brothers is the biblical account of Joseph, one of Jacob’s twelve sons, who was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. Though favored by his father, Joseph faced hardship and betrayal when his brothers stripped him of his special coat and threw him into a pit, eventually selling him to passing merchants. Taken to Egypt, Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams led him to the court of Pharaoh, where he became a trusted advisor and governor, responsible for preparing the nation for a prophesied famine. When Joseph’s brothers later came to Egypt to buy food, he tested them to see if they had changed before revealing his identity and forgiving them. The story of Joseph and His Brothers is a seminal event in Jewish history recounted in the Hebrew Bible as a testament to faith, forgiveness, and divine providence. Despite humble beginnings and tumultuous trials, Joseph’s life was guided by God’s plan, leading him to a position of power where he could ultimately save his family. A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills in this 2 levels of multiple-choice, SAT-style quizzes (2-page and 3-page versions) 2 levels of story summary cloze passages 2 levels of written response worksheets (a double-sided version with 15 mixed style question types, and a single-sided version with 8 essential written response questions) 2 versions of vocabulary-building crossword puzzles Answer sheets for all activities Exploring this pivotal narrative develops cultural literacy about the ancestral origins and formative experiences that shaped Jewish identity, ethics, and traditions. David and Goliath Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

Engage Your Students with the Captivating Story of Moses’ Birth and Its Enduring Legacy The story of Moses being hidden in the bulrushes to escape Pharaoh’s cruel edict is a foundational narrative in Jewish history and Scripture. This comprehensive resource invites your students to immerse themselves in this pivotal moment and explore its profound significance. Key Learning Opportunities: - Preservation of a Leader: Discover how the miraculous survival of the infant Moses foreshadowed his future role as a transformative leader of the Israelites. - Divine Intervention: Analyze how the events surrounding Moses’ birth are seen as acts of divine providence, shaping students’ understanding of Jewish faith and theology. - Cultural Identity: Examine how Moses’ upbringing as an Egyptian prince, yet maintenance of his Israelite roots, underscores the importance of cultural heritage and self-discovery. - Foreshadowing of Liberation: Explore how this story sets the stage for the Israelites’ Exodus from Egyptian slavery, a pivotal event in Jewish history. - Faith and Trust in God: Consider how the faithfulness of Moses’ mother and the protection of the child highlight core themes of trust in God’s plan. Comprehensive Activities Foster Deep Engagement: 28-question multiple-choice quiz Two levels of story summary cloze passages 16 varied written response questions (double-sided) 8 classic-style written response questions (single-sided) 2 versions of a crossword puzzle Answer keys for all activities This resource empowers students to develop cultural literacy about the origins and formative experiences that have shaped Jewish identity, ethics, and traditions. David and Goliath Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text

Dive into the Most Sacred Day of the Jewish Calendar! This comprehensive resource offers a thoughtfully researched information text about Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, accompanied by 8 differentiated, engaging supporting worksheets. The download includes: A meticulously crafted information text about Yom Kippur (both color and ink-saving black and white versions) The carefully researched Yom Kippur information text covers key aspects including: The significance and origins of Yom Kippur in Jewish tradition Historical context, including Moses and the Golden Calf incident Observance practices: fasting, prayer, and abstinence The Ten Days of Repentance and Erev Yom Kippur Rituals like Kol Nidre and the sounding of the shofar The importance of seeking and granting forgiveness Yom Kippur’s place in the broader Jewish calendar Engage your students with 8 diverse activities catering to different learning styles and abilities: Two levels of SAT-style Multiple-Choice Quizzes 3 Levels of Differentiated Written Response Sheets 2 Themed Crossword Puzzles Comprehensive True or False Question Sheet (41 questions) Answer Keys for all activities This resource provides a thorough introduction of Yom Kippur, its practices, and its profound significance in Jewish life, promoting cultural awareness and interfaith understanding. Unravel the mysteries of Yom Kippur and ignite curiosity in your classroom! Perfect for years 7-10. The fascinating text and fun activities will engage your students and help them appreciate Yom Kippur. Also see: Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text David and Goliath

Immerse your students in one of the most powerful and important stories in Jewish history! The Sin of the Golden Calf is a pivotal narrative in the Torah, closely linked to the origins of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. This story recounts how the Israelites, waiting for Moses to return from Mount Sinai, lost faith and created a golden calf to worship. When Moses descended with the Ten Commandments and witnessed this idolatry, he shattered the tablets in anger. This transgression led to a period of repentance and ultimately, God’s forgiveness. The narrative explores themes of faith, temptation, repentance, and divine mercy. It serves as a foundational story for understanding the significance of Yom Kippur in Jewish tradition and practice. This resource includes a double-sided, illustrated retelling of the story, with an informative Yom Kippur fact box and numerous supporting worksheets. The Sin of the Golden Calf is a crucial event in Jewish history, recounted in the Hebrew Bible as a testament to human fallibility, the power of repentance, and God’s capacity for forgiveness. This incident led to the establishment of Yom Kippur, demonstrating how even grave mistakes can be overcome through sincere atonement. A variety of engaging comprehension activities reinforce key details and higher-order thinking skills: 2 levels of multiple-choice, SAT-style quizzes 4 levels of written response worksheets: 2 levels of traditional written response 2 levels of mixed style (multiple choice, true or false, cloze, vocabulary linking, event sequencing, and written response) Story and Yom Kippur cloze summary activity 3 versions of vocabulary-building crossword puzzles Answer sheets for all activities Exploring this pivotal narrative develops cultural literacy about the origins of Yom Kippur and the ethical principles that underpin Jewish traditions of repentance and forgiveness. Ideal for years 5-10 across ELA, social studies, and Jewish studies curricula. Also see: Yom Kippur Information Text Moses & Exodus of Egypt Moses & The Burning Bush Moses in the Bulrushes Joseph and His Brothers Queen Esther’s Story of Purim Story of Creation Story of Hanukkah Judaism Information Text David and Goliath