6th Grade Literacy Stories and Comprehension Questions

Where Can I Find Literacy Stories for My Child?

Younger students typically read short narratives and fictional stories to improve their reading comprehension skills. While these content types are still utilized with older kids, many literacy stories are non-fiction historical pieces, news articles, biographies or poems.

To provide your child extra practice outside of the classroom, do a quick Internet search for 6th grade reading comprehension passages. Many websites offer several free options for every grade level, along with printable worksheets. Typically, your child will be asked to answer multiple-choice questions about the text, but he or she may also be asked to explain an event, provide an opinion or predict an ending.

If you don't have easy access to the Internet, you can also search the library or a local bookstore for 6th grade stories. Instead of having your child complete an entire book, assign a short passage each week and create your own comprehension questions. Get started today with the passage and questions below.

Sample Passage and Comprehension Questions for 6th Graders

Retail Stores Prepare for the Holiday Season

The end of 2011 is drawing near, and that means it's almost time for turkey, Thanksgiving and holiday shopping. The busiest day of the year for most stores is the day after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday. This is the day that stores prepare for months in advance because there will be lines of anxious shoppers, just waiting to rush in when the store opens in hopes of snagging a great deal.

One store manager explained the process leading up to the big event. 'By the beginning of October, we hire several temporary employees to assist with stocking and set up,' she said. 'This year, we'll be opening our doors at 4:00 a.m. with special doorbusters in every department, so there will be extra employees to handle the large crowds and long lines.'

With less than a week to go, the manager will be working several extra hours each night to ensure the day goes smoothly. 'We'll be creating price cut signs, extra checkout counters and piles of backup stock so customers can get in and out with little hassle.'

Comprehension Questions

1. Based on the context, what is a doorbuster?

a) A tool used to get in the door

b) A special deal on doors

c) A discount for the first customers in the door

The answer is 'c.' Doorbuster is the term used to describe special deals given to customers who arrive at the store early.

2. If the manager usually works 40 hours per week but has to work two extra hours every day for seven days, how many hours will she work in the week leading up to Black Friday?

If she works two hours for seven days, that equals 14 extra hours. By adding 14 to her usual 40, Nikki will work 54 hours before Black Friday.

3. Why do stores hire extra help for the holiday season?

The day after Thanksgiving is the busiest day of the year, so stores must prepare for the large number of customers that will come in to shop for gifts at a discounted price.