Table of Contents - saugerties.k12.ny.us

© The Book Umbrella

Table of ContentsNovel Study Title Page for Students ..................................................................................................................3

Dictionary Detective! May 12 - December 1 ..................................................................................................4Vocabulary Study May 12 - December 1 .........................................................................................................5Understanding the Story May 12 - December 1 ...........................................................................................6Chapter Summary May 12 - December 1 ........................................................................................................7

Dictionary Detective! December 4 - January 19 ...........................................................................................8Vocabulary Study December 4 - January 19 ...................................................................................................9Understanding the Story December 4 - January 19 ....................................................................................10Chapter Summary December 4 - January 19 .................................................................................................11

Dictionary Detective! January 20 - February 9 ..............................................................................................12Vocabulary Study January 20 - February 9 ......................................................................................................13Understanding the Story January 20 - February 9 .......................................................................................14Chapter Summary January 20 - February 9 ....................................................................................................15

Dictionary Detective! February 15 - March 25...............................................................................................16Vocabulary Study February 15 - March 25 ......................................................................................................17Understanding the Story February 15 - March 25 .......................................................................................18Chapter Summary February 15 - March 25 ....................................................................................................19

Dictionary Detective! March 26 - March 31 ...................................................................................................20Vocabulary Study March 26 - March 31 ...........................................................................................................21Understanding the Story March 26 - March 31 ............................................................................................22Chapter Summary March 26 - March 31 .........................................................................................................23

Time for a Test!...........................................................................................................................................................24

Answer Key ..................................................................................................................................................................26

Comprehension Worksheets ................................................................................................................................38

Reading Log ................................................................................................................................................................58

Common Core State Standards ...........................................................................................................................59

by Beverly Cleary

A Novel Study by:

Dear Mr. Henshaw


Name:____________________________________________ Date:_______________________________________________

Dictionary Detective! May 12 - December 1

enclosure

hauled

amuse

cautious

disgusted

argument

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Using a dictionary, find the definitions for the words below.

Dear Mr. Henshaw © The Book Umbrella 4

In Leigh’s letter to Mr. Henshaw on November 27, Leigh says that his mom thinks he might be a loner. What do you think a “loner” is?

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study May 12 - December 1

enclosure •hauled •amuse •

cautious •disgusted •argument •

1. My friends had an ___________________________ about who was taller.

2. I was __________________________ when I saw someone throw their garbage on the ground instead of in the trash can.

3. Jane ___________________________ her heavy schoolbag up the stairs.

4. The clown used jokes, magic tricks and balloons to ________________________ the children.

5. The man was very __________________________ when he walked across the busy street.

6. There was an __________________________ of money inside my birthday card.

• mad or unhappy• a fight• careful• something put inside of something else• carried something away• make happy or entertain

cautious amuse disgusted hauled argument enclosure

A Little Extra!

Fill in the Blanks Complete each sentence by filling in the blanks with the provided vocabulary.

Match Up Match the words in the left column to their definitions in the right column.


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story May 12 - Dec 1

A Little Extra!

Leigh’s favorite book is Ways to Amuse a Dog. What is your favorite book and why?

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

1. What is the occupation of the man who Leigh Botts is writing to?

(a) Author.(b) Journalist.(c) Poet.(d) Illustrator.

2. On May 12, Leigh misspells a word in the sentence “We licked it.” What should the word “licked” be?

(a) Kicked.(b) Liked.(c) Looked.(d) Linked.

3. Why does Leigh finally answer Mr. Henshaw’s questions?

4. If you were given an assignment to write to someone famous, who would you choose and why?

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Chapter SummaryMay 12 - December 1

Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________

1. If you could give a title to this section of the book, what would it be?

2. What happens in this section?

4. What new words did you learn in this section?

5. Draw a picture of something you think represents this section.

3. What is your favorite part of this section of the book?


Name:____________________________________________ Date:_______________________________________________

Dictionary Detective! December 4 - January 19

nuisance

lonesome

hibernated

composition

puzzled

fictitious

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:



Vocabulary Study December 4 - January 19

Making Sentences Make a sentence for each word below.

1. Lonesome: ___________________________________________________________________________________

2. Composition: ________________________________________________________________________________

3. Nuisance: ____________________________________________________________________________________

4. Fictitious: ____________________________________________________________________________________

5. Puzzled: _____________________________________________________________________________________

6. Hibernated: __________________________________________________________________________________

1. An annoyance, a bother. _____________________________

2. Made-up, not real. _____________________________

3. To feel sad for being by oneself. _____________________________

4. Confused. _____________________________

5. A work of literature, art or music. _____________________________

6. Slept all winter. _____________________________

nuisance lonesome hibernated composition puzzled fictitious

A Little Extra!

On December 4, Leigh uses the phrase “hangs his hat”. What do you think this phrase means?

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Which Word? On the provided lines, write the matching vocabulary word for each definition.

Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story December 4 - January 19

A Little Extra!

Have you ever had a pen pal or someone who you could write to regularly? What did you like to write about with this person? If you’ve never had a pen pal, would you like to have one? Why or why not?

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

1. On December 12, Leigh adds a new word to his vocabulary. What is the word?

(a) Fastened.(b) Flag.(c) Halyard.(d) Henshaw.

2. What is the problem that Leigh is experiencing at school?

(a) Someone keeps stealing food from his lunchbag.(b) He is failing his English class. (c) A bully keeps picking on him.(d) Leigh thinks his teacher doesn’t like him.

3. On December 4, Leigh apologizes for being rude in his last letter. What reason(s) does Leigh give for being rude?

4. Mr. Fridley asks Leigh to come to school a few minutes early and help him raise the flags. This makes Leigh feel special. What is something that makes you feel special?

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Chapter SummaryDecember 4 - January 19

Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________







Name:____________________________________________

Dictionary Detective! January 20 - February 9

civilization

mimeographed

gondola

refinery

positively

patrol

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:



An adjective is a word that describes a person, place or thing. Make a list of adjectives that you think best describe Leigh.

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Name:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study January 20 - February 9

civilization •mimeographed •

refinery •gondola •

positively •

patrol •

1. “Think ( positively / gondola )!” the coach told his team before the start of the game.

2. The poem was ( mimeographed / refinery ) so it could be printed in the newspaper.

3. The highway ( mimeographed / patrol ) gave tickets to anyone who was caught speeding.

4. The ( civilization / gondola ) remained on the side of the road for most of the day because of a flat tire.

5. The Grimble family had the largest sugar ( refinery / positively ) in the entire country.

6. After being stranded on a deserted island for two months, John was overjoyed to return to ( patrol / civilization ).

• multiplied• doubtlessly• squad• factory• truck• society

A Little Extra!

Best Word Circle the word which works best in each sentence.

Match Up A synonym is a word that means the same as another word. For example, happy and joyful are synonyms. Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!

Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story January 20 - February 9

A Little Extra!

Mr. Henshaw is a writer. Do you think it would be fun to be a writer like Mr. Henshaw? Why or why not?

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

1. What does Leigh’s mom tell Leigh not to get his hopes up about?

(a) Going on a vacation.(b) Making the basketball team.(c) His dad calling him.(d) Having a birthday party.

2. Why is Leigh mad at his parents?

(a) They got divorced.(b) They forgot his birthday.(c) They sold his guitar.(d) They always ground him for no reason.

3. What are Leigh’s reasons for not being able to think of a story to write about on January 20?

4. On February 4, Leigh finally talks to his dad on the phone. What does Leigh hear while talking to his dad that leaves him feeling upset?

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Chapter SummaryJanuary 20 - February 9

Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________







Name:____________________________________________ Date:_______________________________________________

Dictionary Detective! February 15 - March 25

insulated

demonstration

partition

villains

prose

experimenting

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:



There are many villains from TV, movies and books. Who is your favorite villain and why?

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study February 15 - March 25

insulated •demonstration •

partition •villains •prose •

experimenting •

1. The student sat behind the ___________________________ while doing his test.

2. The electrician placed the ___________________________ wires back behind the wall.

3. The science partners spent the afternoon ___________________________ and studying.

4. Robin Hood always used a bow and arrow when fighting ___________________________.

5. The science teacher gave a ___________________________ to show how some things sink and some things float.

6. Suzy liked to read stories written in ___________________________ rather than poetry.

• testing something out• bad people• written language in a normal form• a wall that divides a room• a show or exhibit that explains something• to be lined with or surrounded by a protective material

prose experimenting villains partition demonstration insulated

A Little Extra!




Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story February 15 - March 25

A Little Extra!

Leigh makes a new friend in this section. How does Leigh become friends with Barry?

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

1. On March 3, Leigh goes to the store to buy a battery. What is he going to use the battery for?

(a) A burglar alarm.(b) A radio.(c) A keyboard.(d) A walkie-talkie.

2. Leigh writes a sign for his door. What does the sign say?

(a) Keep Out Mom, That Means You.(b) Do Not Enter!(c) Enter at Your Own Risk.(d) Out to Lunch. Be Back in 5 Minutes.

3. On February 15, Leigh describes a story he is writing for the Young Writers’ Yearbook. What is the story about?

4. Leigh decides to write a different story for the Young Writers’ Yearbook. Describe the story he writes on March 20.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Chapter SummaryFebruary 15 - March 25

Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________







Name:____________________________________________ Date:_______________________________________________

Dictionary Detective! March 26 - March 31

plump

ability

imitate

permission

honorable

hesitated

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:

Definition:



Vocabulary Study March 26 - March 31

Making Sentences Make a sentence for each word below.

1. Plump: ______________________________________________________________________________________

2. Permission: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Ability: _______________________________________________________________________________________

4. Imitate: ______________________________________________________________________________________

5. Honorable: __________________________________________________________________________________

6. Hesitated: ___________________________________________________________________________________

1. To copy or follow. _____________________________

2. Stopped or paused before doing something. _____________________________

3. Worthy of respect and mention. _____________________________

4. To allow to do something. _____________________________

5. Able to do something. _____________________________

6. Round, a little overweight. _____________________________

plump ability imitate permission honorable hesitated

A Little Extra!

What do you think is the most interesting word or phrase from this section? Why is it interesting?

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story March 26 - March 31

A Little Extra!

When Leigh’s father is leaving at the end of the story, Leigh says, “You keep Bandit. You need him more than I do”. Why does Leigh say this?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1. What is the name of the famous author that Leigh wins a chance to eat lunch with?

(a) Mr. Henshaw. (b) Mrs. Potter.(c) Mrs. Badger.(d) Mr. Jazz.

2. At the end of the story, why does Leigh’s dad visit Leigh and his mother?

(a) He needs money.(b) He forgot something at their house.(c) He is in town on business.(d) He misses them.

3. On March 26, Leigh finds out how he did on the Young Writers’ Yearbook. How did he do?

4. What happens at the end of the story? Are there any questions you still have about the story?

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Chapter SummaryMarch 26 - March 31

Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________


2. Summarize this section of the book.





Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________

Time for a Test! Dear Mr. Henshaw

1. How does Leigh keep in contact with Mr. Henshaw?

(a) He writes him letters.(b) He e-mails him.(c) He phones him.(d) He takes the bus and visits him.

2. What is the name of the first book that Leigh read by Mr. Henshaw?

(a) Ways to Train a Dog.(b) Ways to Speak to Dogs.(c) Ways to Be a Dog.(d) Ways to Amuse a Dog.

3. What job does Leigh’s dad have?

(a) Judge.(b) Truck driver.(c) Police officer.(d) Teacher.

4. What job does Leigh’s mom have? (a) Firefighter.(b) Author.(c) Caterer.(d) Hotel manager.

5. What does Leigh’s dad lose that upsets Leigh?

(a) His lunchbox.(b) His guitar.(c) His dog.(d) His postcards.

6. What is Leigh saving his money to buy?

(a) A guitar.(b) A typewriter.(c) Football equipment. (d) A dog.

7. What does Leigh’s father always call Leigh?

(a) Bandit.(b) Kid.(c) Junior.(d) Big Guy.

8. What can Leigh hear go “ping-ping” from his house?

(a) Wind chimes.(b) A gas station.(c) Church bells.(d) A casino.

9. How does Leigh feel at the end of the story?

(a) Very confused and lost.(b) So tired he could sleep for ten years.(c) Sad and a whole lot better at the same time.(d) Like dancing.

Part A – Multiple Choice


Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________

Time for a Test! Dear Mr. Henshaw

Part B – Short Answer1. At the beginning of the story, Leigh begins writing to “Pretend Mr. Henshaw” in his own diary. Why does he do this?

2. What problem does Leigh have with his lunchbox and how does he solve the problem?

3. At the end of the story, what does Leigh’s father bring him? How does Leigh react?

1. Describe Leigh’s meeting with Mrs. Badger. What comments does she make about Leigh’s writing?

2. How does Leigh feel about his parents’ divorce at the end of the story? How have his feelings about their divorce changed since the beginning of the story?

Part C – Long Answer


In Leigh’s letter to Mr. Henshaw on November 27, Leigh says that his mom thinks he might be a loner. What do you think a “loner” is?

Answers will vary.

Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study - Answer Key May 12 - December 1

enclosure •hauled •amuse •

cautious •disgusted •argument •

1. My friends had an argument about who was taller.

2. I was disgusted when I saw someone throw their garbage on the ground instead of in the trash can.

3. Jane hauled her heavy schoolbag up the stairs.

4. The clown used jokes, magic tricks and balloons to amuse the children.

5. The man was very cautious when he walked across the busy street.

6. There was an enclosure of money inside my birthday card.

• mad or unhappy• a fight• careful• something put inside of something else• carried something away• make happy or entertain

cautious amuse disgusted hauled argument enclosure

A Little Extra!




Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story - Answer Key May 12 - Dec 1

A Little Extra!

Leigh’s favorite book is Ways to Amuse a Dog. What is your favorite book and why?

Answers will vary.

1. What is the occupation of the man who Leigh Botts is writing to?

(a) Author.(b) Journalist.(c) Poet.(d) Illustrator.

2. On May 12, Leigh misspells a word in the sentence “We licked it.” What should the word “licked” be?

(a) Kicked.(b) Liked.(c) Looked.(d) Linked.

3. Why does Leigh finally answer Mr. Henshaw’s questions?

Example - Leigh finally answers Mr. Henshaw’s questions because his mom keeps nagging him about it and he’s bored because the television isn’t working.

4. If you were given an assignment to write to someone famous, who would you choose and why?

Answers will vary.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Vocabulary Study - Answer Key December 4 - January 19

Making Sentences - Answers will vary. Make a sentence for each word below.

1. Lonesome: ___________________________________________________________________________________

2. Composition: ________________________________________________________________________________

3. Nuisance: ____________________________________________________________________________________

4. Fictitious: ____________________________________________________________________________________

5. Puzzled: _____________________________________________________________________________________

6. Hibernated: __________________________________________________________________________________

1. An annoyance, a bother. nuisance

2. Made-up, not real. fictitious

3. To feel sad for being by oneself. lonesome

4. Confused. puzzled

5. A work of literature, art or music. composition

6. Slept all winter. hibernated

nuisance lonesome hibernated composition puzzled fictitious

A Little Extra!

On December 4, Leigh uses the phrase “hangs his hat”. What do you think this phrase means?

Answers will vary.


Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story - Answer Key December 4 - January 19

A Little Extra!

Have you ever had a pen pal or someone who you could write to regularly? What did you like to write about with this person? If you’ve never had a pen pal, would you like to have one? Why or why not?

Answers will vary.

1. On December 12, Leigh adds a new word to his vocabulary. What is the word?

(a) Fastened.(b) Flag.(c) Halyard.(d) Henshaw.

2. What is the problem that Leigh is experiencing at school?

(a) Someone keeps stealing food from his lunchbag.(b) He is failing his English class. (c) A bully keeps picking on him.(d) Leigh thinks his teacher doesn’t like him.

3. On December 4, Leigh apologizes for being rude in his last letter. What reason(s) does Leigh give for being rude?

Example - Leigh says that maybe he was mad about other things, like his father forgetting to send this month’s child support payment.

4. Mr. Fridley asks Leigh to come to school a few minutes early and help him raise the flags. This makes Leigh feel special. What is something that makes you feel special?

Answers will vary.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


An adjective is a word that describes a person, place or thing. Make a list of adjectives that you think best describe Leigh.

Answers will vary.

Name:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study - Answer Key January 20 - February 9

civilization •mimeographed •

refinery •gondola •

positively •

patrol •

1. “Think ( positively / gondola )!” the coach told his team before the start of the game.

2. The poem was ( mimeographed / refinery ) so it could be printed in the newspaper.

3. The highway ( mimeographed / patrol ) gave tickets to anyone who was caught speeding.

4. The ( civilization / gondola ) remained on the side of the road for most of the day because of a flat tire.

5. The Grimble family had the largest sugar ( refinery / positively ) in the entire country.

6. After being stranded on a deserted island for two months, John was overjoyed to return to ( patrol / civilization ).

• multiplied• doubtlessly• squad• factory• truck• society

A Little Extra!

Best Word Circle the word which works best in each sentence.

Match Up A synonym is a word that means the same as another word. For example, happy and joyful are synonyms. Match the vocabulary words with their synonyms!

Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story - Answer Key January 20 - February 9

A Little Extra!

Mr. Henshaw is a writer. Do you think it would be fun to be a writer like Mr. Henshaw? Why or why not?

Answers will vary.

1. What does Leigh’s mom tell Leigh not to get his hopes up about?

(a) Going on a vacation.(b) Making the basketball team.(c) His dad calling him.(d) Having a birthday party.

2. Why is Leigh mad at his parents?

(a) They got divorced.(b) They forgot his birthday.(c) They sold his guitar.(d) They always ground him for no reason.

3. What are Leigh’s reasons for not being able to think of a story to write about on January 20? Example - Leigh gives three reasons: every idea he comes up with has already been written, he is waiting for his dad to call, and he is lonely at home when his mom is not there.

4. On February 4, Leigh finally talks to his dad on the phone. What does Leigh hear while talking to his dad that leaves him feeling upset?

Example - Leigh hears the voice of a young boy asking his dad about ordering pizza. Leigh is upset because he misses his dad, and he finds out that there’s another boy in his dad’s life. It seems like his dad never has time for him.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


There are many villains from TV, movies and books. Who is your favorite villain and why?

Answers will vary.

Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Vocabulary Study - Answer Key February 15 - March 25

insulated •demonstration •

partition •villains •prose •

experimenting •

1. The student sat behind the partition while doing his test.

2. The electrician placed the insulated wires back behind the wall.

3. The science partners spent the afternoon experimenting and studying.

4. Robin Hood always used a bow and arrow when fighting villains.

5. The science teacher gave a demonstration to show how some things sink and some things float.

6. Suzy liked to read stories written in prose rather than poetry.

• testing something out• bad people• written language in a normal form• a wall that divides a room• a show or exhibit that explains something• to be lined with or surrounded by a protective material

prose experimenting villains partition demonstration insulated

A Little Extra!




Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story - Answer Key February 15 - March 25

A Little Extra!

Leigh makes a new friend in this section. How does Leigh become friends with Barry?

Example - Barry asks Leigh to come to his house and help his make a burglar alarm like the one that Leigh made for his lunchbox. From then on, they are friends.

1. On March 3, Leigh goes to the store to buy a battery. What is he going to use the battery for?

(a) A burglar alarm.(b) A radio.(c) A keyboard.(d) A walkie-talkie.

2. Leigh writes a sign for his door. What does the sign say?

(a) Keep Out Mom, That Means You.(b) Do Not Enter!(c) Enter at Your Own Risk.(d) Out to Lunch. Be Back in 5 Minutes.

3. On February 15, Leigh describes a story he is writing for the Young Writers’ Yearbook. What is the story about? Example - The story is about a ten foot tall man who drives a big truck and is made of wax. Every time he crosses the desert, he melts a little. He makes so many trips that he can no longer handle the gears or reach the brakes.

4. Leigh decides to write a different story for the Young Writers’ Yearbook. Describe the story he writes on March 20.

Example - Leigh writes a description about a time he rode in a truck with his father. They were trucking a load of grapes down the highway to a winery.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Vocabulary Study - Answer Key March 26 - March 31

Making Sentences - Answers will vary. Make a sentence for each word below.

1. Plump: ______________________________________________________________________________________

2. Permission: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Ability: _______________________________________________________________________________________

4. Imitate: ______________________________________________________________________________________

5. Honorable: __________________________________________________________________________________

6. Hesitated: ___________________________________________________________________________________

1. To copy or follow. imitate

2. Stopped or paused before doing something. hesitated

3. Worthy of respect and mention. honorable

4. To allow to do something. permission

5. Able to do something. ability

6. Round, a little overweight. plump

plump ability imitate permission honorable hesitated

A Little Extra!

What do you think is the most interesting word or phrase from this section? Why is it interesting?

Answers will vary.


Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________


Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

Understanding the Story - Answer Key March 26 - March 31

A Little Extra!

When Leigh’s father is leaving at the end of the story, Leigh says, “You keep Bandit. You need him more than I do”. Why does Leigh say this?

Example - Leigh no longer feels lonely. He is also no longer angry, especially at his father. He wants his father to be happy and have company while on the road, so he suggests that Bandit stay with him.

1. What is the name of the famous author that Leigh wins a chance to eat lunch with?

(a) Mr. Henshaw. (b) Mrs. Potter.(c) Mrs. Badger.(d) Mr. Jazz.

2. At the end of the story, why does Leigh’s dad visit Leigh and his mother?

(a) He needs money.(b) He forgot something at their house.(c) He is in town on business.(d) He misses them.

3. On March 26, Leigh finds out how he did on the Young Writers’ Yearbook. How did he do?Example - Leigh receives an honorable mention.

4. What happens at the end of the story? Are there any questions you still have about the story?

Question # 2 - Answers will vary.

Multiple Choice

Short Answer

Long Answer


Name:____________________________________________ Date:___________________________________________

Time for a Test! - Answer Key Dear Mr. Henshaw

1. How does Leigh keep in contact with Mr. Henshaw?

(a) He writes him letters.(b) He e-mails him.(c) He phones him.(d) He takes the bus and visits him.

2. What is the name of the first book that Leigh read by Mr. Henshaw?

(a) Ways to Train a Dog.(b) Ways to Speak to Dogs.(c) Ways to Be a Dog.(d) Ways to Amuse a Dog.

3. What job does Leigh’s dad have?

(a) Judge.(b) Truck driver.(c) Police officer.(d) Teacher.

4. What job does Leigh’s mom have? (a) Firefighter.(b) Author.(c) Caterer.(d) Hotel manager.

5. What does Leigh’s dad lose that upsets Leigh?

(a) His lunchbox.(b) His guitar.(c) His dog.(d) His postcards.

6. What is Leigh saving his money to buy?

(a) A guitar.(b) A typewriter.(c) Football equipment. (d) A dog.

7. What does Leigh’s father always call Leigh?

(a) Bandit.(b) Kid.(c) Junior.(d) Big Guy.

8. What can Leigh hear go “ping-ping” from his house?

(a) Wind chimes.(b) A gas station.(c) Church bells.(d) A casino.

9. How does Leigh feel at the end of the story?

(a) Very confused and lost.(b) So tired he could sleep for ten years.(c) Sad and a whole lot better at the same time.(d) Like dancing.

Part A – Multiple Choice


Name:____________________________________________ Date:__________________________________________

Time for a Test! - Answer Key Dear Mr. Henshaw

Part B – Short Answer1. At the beginning of the story, Leigh begins writing to “Pretend Mr. Henshaw” in his own diary. Why does he do this?

Example - Leigh writes to “Pretend Mr. Henshaw” in his own diary because the real Mr. Henshaw encourages him to start keeping a journal so he can practice his writing. Leigh feels silly writing Dear Diary so he continues writing to his favorite author like he had been doing all along.

2. What problem does Leigh have with his lunchbox and how does he solve the problem?

Example - Leigh’s problem with his lunchbox is that someone keeps stealing things from it. Leigh tries taping his bag shut, changing the name on it, and even eating his lunch on the way to school but nothing works. Finally, Leigh creates a burglar alarm for his lunchbox which prevents any thieves from stealing his food.

3. At the end of the story, what does Leigh’s father bring him? How does Leigh react?

Example - Leigh’s dad brings Leigh his dog Bandit. This is a surprise because earlier in the story, Leigh’s dad tells Leigh that Bandit had gotten lost in a snowstorm.

1. Describe Leigh’s meeting with Mrs. Badger. What comments does she make about Leigh’s writing?

Example - Mrs. Badger tells Leigh that she really enjoyed reading his story and that he is a great author. She also tells him that she thinks he writes like himself which is a difficult thing to do when you are a young author.

2. How does Leigh feel about his parents’ divorce at the end of the story? How have his feelings about their divorce changed since the beginning of the story?

Example - At the end of the story, Leigh seems to accept the fact that his parents are divorced. He says that he feels “sad but happy” at the same time. At the beginning of the story, Leigh is mad that his parents are divorced. Leigh also wonders why his parents are divorced and if they will ever get married again.

Part C – Long Answer


Name:____________________________________________ Date:_________________________________________

Before Reading

Title of Book:

Author of Book:

Have you read anything by this author before? If so, what was it?

Read the back cover. What do you learn about the story from the back cover?

Look at the front cover. What hints do you think it gives about the story?

Based on the front and back covers, do you want to read this book? Why or why not?


Who is Beverly Cleary? Use the internet and other resources to research the author of Dear Mr. Henshaw, Beverly Cleary.

Name:____________________________________________ Date:____________________________________________

1. What do you already know about Beverly Cleary?

2. What do you want to find out about Beverly Cleary?

3. What have you learned from your research?

4. Where did you get your information?

Before Researching

After Researching


My Character ChartDraw a picture and record important information about each important character as you read the text.

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My Character Chart (Cont’d)

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Did any of your predictions come true? What ended up happening in the story?

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Making PredictionsCan you predict the future? What do you think will happen next in the story? Write down two

predictions inside the crystal balls. Revisit this page later to answer the last question.

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Why do you think this will happen?

Why do you think this will happen?

3. ClimaxThe most exciting and emotional part of the story.

1. ExpositionWe learn background information about the story’s characters, setting, and basic plot.

5. ConclusionThe story comes to an end.

2. Rising Action The things that happen to push the story forward as we head toward the climax.

4. Falling ActionThe events that happened

during the climax are dealt with.

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Plot MountainA story’s plot is made up of five parts: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action and

conclusion. After you’ve finished reading Dear Mr. Henshaw, fill in the spaces below.

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Beginning

End

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Story TimelineFill in the plot timeline by deciding on the most important plot points of Dear Mr. Henshaw

and recording them in the order they happen.

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Example of Conflict Type of Conflict

Look for some examples of conflict in Dear Mr. Henshaw and add them to the chart below.

Man Versus Man Two or more characters

struggle against each other.

Man Versus Society A character struggles against

a part of society such as a company, religion, school, etc.

Man Versus Nature A character struggles against a force of nature such as the

weather or an animal.

Man Versus Self A character struggles

to overcome his or her own weaknesses.

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What is Conflict?Conflict refers to the problems and challenges that make stories interesting and

move plots along. Conflict is an important part of any story. Below are some of the different conflict types you may encounter as you read.

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1. Describe the setting of Dear Mr. Henshaw. When and where does it take place?

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3. Explain what you have drawn above.

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2. Draw a picture of a setting described in the story.

Story SettingThe setting is the time and/or place in which a story happens.

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Find three examples from the book that supports this as one of the themes.

One theme of Dear Mr. Henshaw is...

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What is a Theme?The theme a central topic or idea of a story. A story can have one or more themes. Some examples of themes are acceptance, cooperation, bravery and determination.

What do you think one theme of Dear Mr. Henshaw is?

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The Main Problem of the Story

Solution Idea 1

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Solution Idea 3

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Solution Idea 2

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Solution Idea 4

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Problem SolvingAn important part of any story is the problem which the main character faces.

Write down the main problem faced in Dear Mr. Henshaw below, then brainstorm some possible solutions to the problem.

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Cause

Effect

Cause

Effect

Cause

Effect

Cause and EffectAn action or development in a story is the ‘cause’. The result of the action or

development is the ‘effect’. Find some examples of cause and effect in Dear Mr. Henshaw and record them below.

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Major Characters Major characters play a big part in the story.

They influence the plot and take part in solving the main problem of the story.Example(s) from the book:

Dynamic Characters Dynamic characters change through the story,

usually because they overcome a challenge which makes them grow as a person.

Example(s) from the book:

The Protagonist The protagonist is the main character of

the story. Stories are often told from their point of view.


Round Characters Round characters have complicated

personalities and more than one character trait.


Minor Characters Minor characters pop up to help (or hurt)

the story’s major characters.


Static Characters Static characters do not change. Their

personalities and attitudes are the same at the end of the story as they were at the beginning.


The Antagonist The antagonist is the character

(or characters) who causes problems for the protagonist.


Flat Characters Flat characters don’t have complicated

personalities. Readers know them by only one character trait.


Character TypesIn fictional stories, there are many different types of characters that play different roles.

Read about different character types below, and decide which character from Dear Mr. Henshaw fits each character type. (Some characters may fit more than one character type).

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Relationship KeyFriends

FamilyEnemies

Classmates/Co-workers Teacher/Boss

Other

Character MapWrite a different character name in each bubble below. Then, draw different styles

of lines in different colors (as shown in the Relationship Key) to show the relationships between each character.

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OPINIONS

A fact is something that is proven to be true.� An example of a fact is, “The month after July is August”.

An opinion is a feeling or belief about something.� An example of an opinion is, “July is the best month of the year!”

In the spaces below, record four facts and four opinions about Dear Mr. Henshaw.

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F A C TS

Facts and Opinions

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With this passage, what do you hope to persuade your readers to do?

Read this book! Don’t read this book!

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Persuasive WritingTo be persuasive is to be good at convincing people to think a certain way.

Write a persuasive passage in which you try to convince your readers that they should either read or not read Dear Mr. Henshaw. Make sure to include reasons for why you think the story is good or bad using examples from the text. For example, if you tell your readers that the story is funny, tell

them about something funny that happens in the book.

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Quotation: ______________________________________________________________________

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Why I chose this quotation: ____________________________________________________

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Quotation QuestSkim the novel and write down three favorite quotations, or quotations you think are important to the story.

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Character 1 Character 2

The similarities these characters share

The differences between these characters

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Character 1 Character 2

Character ComparisonChoose two characters from Dear Mr. Henshaw and compare them to each other.

What are their similarities and what are their differences?

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Dear Mr. Henshaw _________________________

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The similarities these stories share

The differences between these stories

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Story ComparisonCompare Dear Mr. Henshaw to another story you have read.

What are their similarities and what are their differences?

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Similarities

Character Name: ___________________________________________________

Differences

My Life - Making ConnectionsIn the spaces below, make comparisons between your life and the life of a character of

your choosing from Dear Mr. Henshaw.

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Reading LogRecord information about the books you read on this chart.


Grade 3RL3.1 Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.RL3.3 Describe characters in a story (e.g., their traits, motivations, or feelings) and explain how their actions contribute to the sequence of events.RL3.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, distinguishing literal from nonliteral language.RL3.5 Refer to parts of stories, dramas, and poems when writing or speaking about a text, using terms such as chapter, scene, and stanza; describe how each successive part builds on earlier sections.RL3.6 Distinguish their own point of view from that of the narrator or those of the characters.L3.1 Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.L3.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning word and phrases based on grade 3 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.L3.5 Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships and nuances in word meanings.

Grade 4RL4.1 Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.RL4.2 Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.RL4.3 Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character’s thoughts, words, or actions).RL4.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including those that allude to significant characters found in mythology (e.g., Herculean).L4.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 4 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.L4.5 Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

Grade 5RL5.1 Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.RL5.2 Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text, including how characters in a story or drama respond to challenges or how the speaker in a poem reflects upon a topic; summarize the text.RL5.3 Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events in a story or drama, drawing on spe-cific details in the text (e.g., how characters interact).RL5.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language such as metaphors and similes.L5.4 Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 5 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.L5.5 Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.

Common Core State StandardsThis novel study is aligned to the Common Core State Standards (U.S.)

Novel Study

Dear Mr. henshaw

by Beverly Cleary

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