Rules
by
Cynthia Lord
Comprehension
Guide
Catherine, age twelve, is put in
charge of babysitting her eight-yearold brother David on the first day of
summer vacation. Babysitting David
is a common task for Catherine and
one to be taken seriously as David is
autistic and must be watched closely
at all times.
Catherine constantly makes up rules
for her brother, such as “if someone
says ‘hi,’ you say ‘hi’ back,” and “no
toys in the fish tank,” to try to help
her brother behave more normally....
Name:
Date:
2010 Wise Guys ©
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Comprehension Guide
Name: _____________________ Date: ________________
Directions: Answer the following questions about the story Rules.
Please try your best to use complete sentences whenever possible.
Reading Strategy: Prior Knowledge
Before reading, try to answer the questions below on the left hand side. Then, your teacher
will provide you with some more information that you can write on the right side (or you
can try to research it yourself).
Prior to Reading Story
After Discussion or Reading Story
What is autism?
What is a communication book?
What is an occupational therapist and what does this person do?
Prior to Reading
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Good readers will predict. Preview the story Rules and make a prediction about what the
book is about. Explain in your prediction basing on what you read from the back of the
book.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Good Readers will try to find meanings from the words…
Word Study
In order to better comprehend what they are reading, good readers will try to find the meanings of the key
vocabulary in the story. Please refer to the “Word Study” sheet in the back of your comprehension guide for the
words for each chapter.
If you have difficulty with some of the other vocabulary words from your reading, just remember that some
have more than one definition. So make sure the one you use fits the way you think it would be used in the
story.
Good Readers will use context clues…
Day 1 Reading: Pages 1-12
The story begins with a list of rules for David, Catherine’s brother. On the notebook below,
write down 5 rules that you have to follow at home.
Where is David’s favorite place? Why doesn’t Catherine like to go there with him? Where is
your favorite place to go?
Strategy Focus: Infer
One of Catherine’s rules is “Sometimes you’ve gotta work with what you got.” Based on
what you have read in this chapter, what does she mean by this?
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Why is Catherine looking forward to summer?
Why does Catherine keep a sketchbook that has rules for David?
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
Catherine writes down, “Sometimes people don’t answer because they don’t hear
you. Other times it’s because they don’t want to hear you.”
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
In this chapter, you are introduced to David who has autism. His sister Catherine has
written down many rules for him. In the chart below write down how these same rules
affect your life. Give an example if you can.
David’s Rules
Don’t stand in front of
the TV when other
people are watching it.
Say “excuse me,”
after you burp.
Flush!
If you say something over
and over, maybe they’ll
give in to shut you up.
2010 Wise Guys ©
How do these rules even affect me?
Day 2 Reading: Pages 13-28
Why does Catherine like to come to David’s appointments?
Good readers will use strategies to help understand the story…
In the speech bubble below, write down why Catherine likes to draw and how she
overcame her fear of snakes.
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
As Catherine’s mom reads Harry Potter to her, she thinks about how useful an invisible
cloak would be. Next to the cloak below, write about two situations where you would like to
have this cloak and why.
What wish did Catherine make for Jason and why?
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
Have you ever had to sit for a long time in a waiting room? What do you think waiting
rooms should do that would keep you occupied so you wouldn’t get bored. Explain your
reasons why.
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Day 3 Reading: Pages 29-49
Strategy Focus: Character Analysis
What kind of person do you think Ryan is? Give specific examples from this chapter that
support your position.
Why is Catherine’s dad usually late? Why is this frustrating for her?
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
“Late does not mean not coming.”
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Write the three conversation rules that Catherine created for David in the speech bubble
below.
Catherine is excited to meet her new friend. What are some activities that she hopes her
new friend will like?
Jason has many cards in his communication book. Fill in the cards below by choosing four
that he has in his book. Write the word neatly and draw a small picture inside each card.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 4 Reading: Pages 50-65
Strategy Focus: Visualize
Good readers will try to draw a picture in their head about what they are reading.
Draw a picture of what Catherine’s bedroom looks like. Make sure to label at least five
items in your picture.
What did Catherine include on the cards she made for Jason? Choose five words and write
them on the cards below.
Why is a fish tank mentioned in today’s reading?
Strategy Focus: Inference
Catherine states that, “Everyone expects a tiny bit from him and a huge lot from me.” What
evidence from the book supports this?
Why didn’t Catherine invite the new neighbors over for a barbeque?
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
Have you ever felt like you weren’t appreciated? Explain the situation.
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Day 5 Reading: Pages 66-88
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text for Fun
Good readers will extend the text. In this part of the story, Catherine brings her CD player
to the clinic for Jason to use. For this activity, you are asked to make up a name of a band,
create 5 song titles, and design the cover a CD based on what you read. All of what you
create should relate to what you read. Be able to explain in your group how your song titles
relate to your reading.
Band Name: __________________________________
Five Song Titles
1.
2.
4.
5.
3.
CD Cover
Design a CD cover fop your
band. Remember to include
some of the top songs!
Type of Music
What type of music does
your band play:









Rock n’ Roll
Country
Classical
Hip Hop
Jazz
Blues
Reggae
Rap
Other: ________
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
“Some people think they know who you are, when really they don’t.
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Strategy Focus: Character Analysis
The character Kristi is introduced on page 79. Please describe her as Catherine sees her
new neighbor.
Strategy Focus: Simile
A simile is a figure of speech in which two unlike things are compared. The key words
“like” or “as” are often used within the sentence where you would find a simile. Why do
you think Catherine thought that “Ryan was as nice as a cockroach.”
What problem did David have when he rushed into Catherine’s room? Why did David put
his hands over his head in her room?
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Day 6 Reading: Pages 89-112
Good readers will compare and contrast to help comprehend…
Strategy Focus: Compare and Contrast
Compare and contrast Kristi’s family rules to your family rules. Put your answers in the
spaces below. Please try to have at least 2 descriptions or phrases in each part.
Kristi’s family rules
Your family rules
Who does Kristi want Catherine to ask out on a date? What is Catherine’s reaction?
What were some differences that Catherine noticed about her house compared to Kristi’s.
Write those differences in the box next to the house below.
What did Jason give Catherine’s mom when she wasn’t at the clinic? What was Catherine’s
reaction?
What did Catherine bring to the clinic the next time? What was Jason’s reaction?
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Before you read pages 104-112, predict at least two new cards Catherine will make for
Jason. Explain your prediction for each.
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Why does Catherine have a knot in her stomach?
Strategy Focus: Understanding Phrases
Catherine thinks, “I’m torn between all losing choices.” What were the choices and why
does she think they are not in her favor?
What does Ryan tell David to do? Why does this become a problem for Catherine?
On the bubble below, write about what happens when Ryan gives David a piece of gum.
Strategy Focus: Metaphors
A metaphor is a figure of speech in which two nouns are either compared or contrasted
to each other. Catherine is comparing her brother to an apple. Describe the metaphor
below.
What new words is Catherine adding to her sketchbook after her bad day? Write four of
them on the cards below.
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Day 7 Reading: Pages 113-128
Why didn’t Catherine want to share her words with Jason? What was Jason’s reaction?
Strategy Focus: Vocabulary
One of the cards that Catherine makes is “murky.” Next to the pond below write about how
Catherine explains what this word means.
What three cards does David point to that surprise you? Why did he point to these?
Strategy Focus: Comparing Emotions
After David shares his cards about how he feels, what card does Catherine grab? Why?
What does David sometimes dream about? How does Catherine try to make this come
true? Write it on the cloud below.
Strategy Focus: Inference
Catherine tries to get the attention of her father, but her father is preoccupied with his
tomatoes. How does Catherine feel about her relationship with her father based on what
you have read so far in the story?
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 8 Reading: Pages 129-154
What had David put in the fish tank? Who had noticed it?
Strategy Focus: Compare and Contrast
Compare and contrast Kristi’s and Catherine’s ideas of being split down the middle. Put
your answers in the spaces below. Please try to have at least 2 descriptions or phrases in
each part.
Kristi
Catherine
Kristi and Catherine discuss what they would wish for if they had one wish. Fill in the
boxes below. Make sure to include your wish too!
Kristi’s Wish
Catherine’s Wish
My Wish
Why did Catherine write “guilty, complicated, hidden, and weak” in her sketchbook?
What new surprise did Jason have at the next appointment? What do they decide to do?
At the end of the chapter what does Jason ask Catherine that makes her happy? Why?
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 9 Reading: Pages 155-177
Who comes over to Catherine’s house? What do they do?
What does Kristi ask David? What happens when she puts the CD in?
Why did Catherine turn the CD off?
What did Catherine buy at Elliot’s antique store? Who was it for?
What new words does Catherine make for Jason in the waiting room? Fill in four cards
below with the words and a reason why she chose those words.
Why did Jason get mad with the “bench” word card?
What six cards does Jason show Catherine at the birthday party that causes Jason to
become upset with her? Why does this happen?
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Catherine leaves the party crying. Before you read the next chapter, predict what you will
think will happen with Catherine and Jason’s relationship. Make sure to explain your
answer in detail.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 10 Reading: Pages 178-200
Why does Catherine miss Melissa so much?
Good readers will use strategies to help understand the story…
Who does Catherine call? What was the result of the phone call?
Why does Catherine call her dad at work? Why does she say, “It’s an emergency!”
Catherine, David, and their dad all go to the dance. David sees flashing lights that look like
stars. Next to the two lights below write down what they wished for.
When Jason finally arrives, Catherine shares four cards with him. Below write the words of
the four cards and why each card was important for her to share with him.
She
What rule does Catherine break?
Strategy Focus: Author’s Purpose
Good readers will try to evaluate what they read. Did you like the way Cynthia Lord ended
the story? What did you think of this book? Were you surprised by the relationship
between Catherine and Jason?
2010 Wise Guys ©
On-Going Activity
Facebook
Directions: You are asked to create a Facebook profile page for the story that you
have read.
What is Facebook?
Facebook is a social networking website that was launched in 2004. The free-access
website allows users to connect and interact with other people. Users can also add friends
and send them messages. They can also update their personal profile to notify friends
about what they are doing.
What does this have to do with my reading?
Like the directions stated, you are asked to create a profile page for the story that you read.
The Facebook profile is intended to provide anyone who hasn’t read the story a detailed
visual of the story. All you need to do is follow the steps below.
1. Book Title: Write the name of the book at the top of the Facebook template page.
2. Character Picture: In the left hand corner of the Facebook template page, draw
a colorful picture about one of your favorite characters from the story that you just
read. Below the picture, write the name of the character.
3. Friends: Think of at least six “friends” that your character would like to “invite”
on his/her Facebook page. Please understand that you will need to explain why you
chose the friends that you did.
 Story Friends: Two of your character’s friends will come from the story
that you just read. These friends would be other characters from the story.
Draw a picture of the characters on the Facebook template page. On
another loose leaf piece of paper (or on the back of the profile page) explain
why each character would be a friend.
 Other Story Friends: Two of your character’s friends will come from
another book. These friends would be characters from other books that you
think would want to be “friends” with your character. Explain why each
character would be a friend.
 Famous Friend: One of your character’s friends will be someone famous
(athlete, actor/actress, singer, talk show host, etc.). Explain why this
character would want to be a friend.
 Your Friend: One of your character’s friends will be someone that you
know. This is someone that you think who would want to be friends with
your character. Explain why this person would want to be a friend.
4. Four Events: Now think of four events from the story that your character would
want to share with his/her six “friends”. Write the event name in the Facebook
template page. You should also include at least 1 complete sentence about the
event. For example, “Heading to the lake… I am going fishing today with grandpa
on Upper Long Lake. I’ll let you know how I did later.”
5. Choice Event: The last thing that you are asked to do is to come up with another
event that was not in the story, but would be something that your character would
do.
Rules by Cynthia Lord
2010 Wise Guys ©
The title of the story goes here.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Event #1 goes here.
Picture of
character goes
right here.
Event #2 goes here.
Event #3 goes here.
Event #4 goes here.
The name of the character goes here.
Your choice event goes here.
Story Friend
Draw a picture of a friend
from the story here. The
name of the friend should
be written on this also.
Other Story Friend
Draw a picture of a friend
from another story here.
The name of the friend
should be written on this
also.
Famous Friend
Draw a picture of a famous
friend here. The name of
the friend should be
written on this also.
Story Friend
Draw a picture of a friend
from the story here. The
name of the friend should
be written on this also.
Other Story Friend
Draw a picture of a friend
from another story here.
The name of the friend
should be written on this
also.
Your Friend
Draw a picture of one of
your friends here. The
name of the friend should
be written on this also.
2010 Wise Guys ©
On-Going Activity
Good readers will try to understand the character’s feelings…
Mood, Emotions
Directions: Throughout this story there were many emotions that Catherine and
other characters encountered. Fill in the chart next to each emotion by giving an
example of how they displayed that emotion. If you were unable to find an
emotion for at least 5 of the choices below, write your own emotion from the story.
Afraid
Loneliness
Anticipation
Love
Sadness
Excited
Happiness
Nervous
Unwanted
Determination
2010 Wise Guys ©
Rules by Cynthia Lord
End of Novel Project Choices
The following choices will be due at the end of the novel. I will give you some
time in class to complete this, but you may have to do some at home.
Good readers will extend the text through projects…
Sketch Book
Catherine used her sketch book to draw pictures and to help her
escape. You job is to draw 5 pictures that may have appeared in her
sketch book. When you are done, you will need to explain how those
sketches relate to the story.
“Frog and Toad”
Research the series “Frog and Toad” by Arnold Lobel. You will need to read the stories,
create a picture, and explain how the picture from Frog and Toad relates to the story Rules.
Rules
There were a lot of rules talked about in the story. Your job would
be to create a new rule list that contains rules that Catherine needs to
remember when she is with David and when she is with Jason. Make
sure you are able to explain the rules that you create for Catherine.
Cards for Jason
Jason has asked you to make 5 new cards for his communication board. Design 5 cards on
blank index cards. Make sure to write each word clearly on the front and include a picture
if you want. Then on the back of the card, write why you chose each word for Jason.
Puzzles
One thing that David likes to do was to put puzzles together. Your job will
be to create a puzzle picture about an event from the story. Once your
picture is done, make the picture into a puzzle by drawing jagged lines on
the picture and then cut out the pieces. You will need to tell the class the
significance of the picture and why puzzles were important to David.
Chapter Titles
Extend the text by creating titles for each chapter. Then explain why you chose the title
that you did.
Game Board
Make up a colorful board game about the story on a larger piece of tag
board. Your game must contain at least ten events that happened in the
story. Your game board must tell the story of Rules
.
Dance Poster
Create a poster that Catherine would have made for the dance. Your poster must include
the name of the dance, the time, and the cost for admission. Make it colorful and neat. You
should also include a summary of what happened at the dance on the back of the poster.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Good readers will extend the meaning of the text by understanding the vocabulary words…
Word Study
Reading Strategy Focus: Word Study
In order to better comprehend what they are reading, good readers will try to find the meanings of
the key vocabulary in the story. If you have difficulty with some of the other vocabulary words from
your reading, just remember that some have more than one definition. Make sure you choose the
one that best fits the way you think it is used in the story.
Day 1 (pages 1-12)
Overcast p. 1- cloudy
Advisory p. 2- warning
Crude p. 2- harsh
Surefire p. 3- exact, correct
Realtor p. 4- a person who sells homes
Tingly p. 5- a pricking feeling
Blotchy p. 6- marked by red spots
Autism p. 8- a pervasive developmental
disorder of children, characterized by
impaired communication, excessive
rigidity, and emotional detachment.
Quarrels p. 8- arguments
Fray p. 8- come apart
Occupational p. 11- pertaining to the job of
being a therapist
Day 2 (pages 13-28)
Egrets p. 13 –a type of heron (bird)
Osprey p. 13- hawk that feeds on fish
Musty p. 15- damp, wet
Strutting p. 17- walking with purpose
Vinyl p. 18- a type of shiny plastic
Twitch p. 20- move uncontrollably
Corridor p. 24- hallway
Errands p. 24- places to go and do things
Cringe p. 25- to crouch in fear
Day 3 (pages 29-49)
Heron p. 30- type of bird
Grimaces p. 43- a facial expression
showing displeasure
Evaluations p. 48- tests
Day 4 (pages 50-65)
Gasp p. 50- hold one’s breath
Gauzy p. 52- a material that lets light in
Emerald p. 52- a colorful green shade
Fiery p. 53- with passion
Gazillion p. 54- tons, many
Wadded p. 58- pushed down
Linoleum p. 60- a shiny floor covering
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Day 5 (pages 66-88)
Faint p. 68- distant
Accommodate p. 69- take
Maggot p. 70- disgusting bug
Cellar p. 72- basement
Anxious p. 75- excited, can’t wait
Propped p. 77- set next to
Technically p. 80- actually
Grimacing p. 81- showing hate
Pry p. 83- to take with force
Day 6 (pages 89-112)
Bureau p. 90- dresser
Peril p. 95- danger
Cradling p. 99- holding closely
Whorls p. 99- circles
Huddled p. 104-snuggled
Wrinkling p. 105-crunching
Gesturing p. 109- motioning
Guilt p. 110- feeling fault
Day 7 (pages 113-128)
Perspective p. 113- depth
Shrieking p. 122- yelling
Brisk p. 124- fast
Frilly p. 126-wavy
Day 8 (pages 129-154)
Batik p. 130- fabric printed in a
certain way
Skimming p. 135- lightly touching
Distortion p. 135- not smooth
Plastered p. 137- stuck
Shallows p. 137- not deep part
Warped p. 144- not correct
Surges p. 146- move forward
Pity p. 148- look of sorrow
Wharf p. 150- a pier by water
Preen p. 151- clean
Prickly p. 153- like little pins
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Word Study continued…
Good readers will extend the meaning of the text by understanding the vocabulary words…
Reading Strategy Focus: Word Study
In order to better comprehend what they are reading, good readers will try to find the meanings of
the key vocabulary in the story. If you have difficulty with some of the other vocabulary words from
your reading, just remember that some have more than one definition. Make sure you choose the
one that best fits the way you think it is used in the story.
Day 9 (pages 155-177)
Broaches p. 162- a type of fancy pin
Acoustic p. 163- sound is not enhanced
electronically
Sprawling p. 167- covering lot of ground
Muted p. 168- hard to hear
Lingering p. 172- remaining
Day 10 (178-200)
Fleeting p. 180- vanishing quickly
Snips p. 189- parts
Flickering p. 189- moving quickly
Blistering p. 191- bright and bold
Twines p. 192- gathers
Detour p. 197- a diversion away
2010 Wise Guys ©
End of Story Comprehension Check
Name ___________________________ Date _________________
Project Choice: ________________________________
Student Evaluation
1. On a scale of 0-5, I would rate this book a ______.
2. My favorite part of this books was:
3. On a scale of 0-5, I would rate my effort on the final project a ______.
4. On a scale of 0-5, I would rate the neatness of my final project a _____.
5. I think my overall grade on the final project would be a ______.
Teacher Evaluation
Content
Effort
5 Points
4-3
2-1
Wow! Above and Beyond
expectation! Your
project really shows that
you understood the
story!
Shows a lot of
comprehension of story
through activity chosen
(main characters,
setting, main events,
problem, and solution).
Shows some or minimal
comprehension of story
through activity chosen.
Wow! Above and beyond
expectations! Your work
was very neat and it
seems as though you put
your best effort toward
this!
Worked hard, was not
easily distracted. Seems
like you put some effort
into your final project.
Worked hard, was
sometimes distracted.
Maybe could have used
more effort on final
project.
Grade: ________
2010 Wise Guys ©
Guided Reading Assessment Grid
Directions: The following tables can be used as an assessment tool for when discussing books
with the group at the table. You can refer to the back for a more detailed rubric.
Book Title: _________________________________ Date: ____________________
Student:
Student:
Connections
Connections
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Comprehension
Predicting
Predicting
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Connections
Connections
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Comprehension
Predicting
Predicting
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Connections
Connections
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Comprehension
Predicting
Predicting
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Student:
Connections
Connections
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Comprehension
Predicting
Predicting
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
2010 Wise Guys ©
Rating Scale 1-5 (please refer to back for details)
Guided Reading Rubric for Assessment Grid
Back Page of Guided Reading Assessment Grid
Making
Connections
Text-to-Text
Text-to-Self
Text-to-World
Vocabulary
Word Recognition
Comprehension
Summarizing
Predicting
Making
Inferences
Level 3-4
Above and Beyond
Reader made
connections and based
them on background
knowledge and/or
experiences. Reader also
had clear explanations on
most connections.
With all connections,
reader explained in detail
how their background
experiences aided in the
comprehension of text.
Reader identified some
unknown words but
seems to have some
difficulty understanding
meaning of some
words
in the book.
Reader identified many
unknown words and was
able to identify the
meaning of most words
discussed.
Reader identified the
majority words that he/she
did not understand. Reader
seemed to gain a vast
amount of knowledge
through the word study and
was also willing to share
that with the group.
Reader showed little or
no awareness of what
the story was about
through the assigned
comprehension
questions and
discussions.
Reader included some
main details in the
comprehension
questions and
discussions but left out
some very important
events.
Reader retold the story
using main ideas and
supporting details in the
comprehension
questions and
discussions.
Reader retold the story
effectively and efficiently
and was always willing to
share with the group.
Reader’s predictions
seemed to lack any
connection to what
previously happened in
the story or what could
happen in the story.
Reader attempted to
make predictions or
draw conclusions but
did not use the text to
defend the statement.
Reader drew conclusions
and/or made predictions
based on what could
happen in the story. The
reader also defended
these predictions by
using information found
in the story.
Reader’s predictions,
interpretations, and/or
conclusions about the story
included connections
between the text and the
reader's background
knowledge, ideas, and/or
beliefs.
Level 1
Level 2
Reader made no
connections between
text and self/text/or
world.
Reader made simple
connections but did
not explain them all in
detail.
Reader did not identify
any vocabulary words.
Reader seems to have
difficulty understanding
meaning of many words
in the book.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Guided Reading Comprehension Guide Rubric
Student ______________________________ Date ____________________
Overall
Comprehension
(based on answers in
guide and discussion)
Strategy Focus
(connecting, predicting,
summarizing, visualizing,
extending text, etc.)
Group Work
(participation,
cooperation,
supplies, etc.)
Overall Guide
(completed, neatness,
thorough, etc.)
1 Point
2 Points
3-4 Points
5 Points
Reader showed little or
no awareness of what the
story was about through
the assigned
comprehension questions
and discussions.
Reader included some
important details in the
comprehension answers
and discussions but left
out some important
details.
Reader retold the story
using main ideas and
supporting details in the
comprehension questions
and discussions.
Reader retold the story
effectively and efficiently
and was always willing to
share with the group.
Reader showed no
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader showed some
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader showed an
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader clearly showed an
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader did not participate
and/or cooperate.
Reader sometimes
participated and/or
cooperated.
Reader participated
and/or cooperated.
Supplies were ready.
Reader was always willing
to participate and/or
cooperate.
Most of the guide was
either not done or very
sloppy.
Some of the guide was
either not done or very
sloppy.
The guide was done was
for the most part neat.
The guide was done, was
neat, and thorough.
Total Points Earned (20) _____
Grade _____
Guided Reading Comprehension Guide Rubric
Student ______________________________ Date ____________________
Overall
Comprehension
(based on answers in
guide and discussion)
Strategy Focus
(connecting, predicting,
summarizing, visualizing,
extending text, etc.)
Group Work
(participation,
cooperation,
supplies, etc.)
Overall Guide
(completed, neatness,
thorough, etc.)
1 Point
2 Points
3-4 Points
5 Points
Reader showed little or
no awareness of what the
story was about through
the assigned
comprehension questions
and discussions.
Reader included some
important details in the
comprehension answers
and discussions but left
out some important
details.
Reader retold the story
using main ideas and
supporting details in the
comprehension questions
and discussions.
Reader retold the story
effectively and efficiently
and was always willing to
share with the group.
Reader showed no
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader showed some
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader showed an
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader clearly showed an
understanding of the
strategies.
Reader did not participate
and/or cooperate.
Reader sometimes
participated and/or
cooperated.
Reader participated
and/or cooperated.
Supplies were ready.
Reader was always willing
to participate and/or
cooperate.
Most of the guide was
either not done or very
sloppy.
Some of the guide was
either not done or very
sloppy.
The guide was done was
for the most part neat.
The guide was done, was
neat, and thorough.
Total Points Earned (20) _____
2010 Wise Guys ©
Grade _____
Rules by Cynthia Lord
Comprehension Guide
Name: _____________________ Date: ________________
Directions: Answer the following questions about the story Rules.
Please try your best to use complete sentences whenever possible.
Reading Strategy: Prior Knowledge
Before reading, try to answer the questions below on the left hand side. Then, your teacher
will provide you with some more information that you can write on the right side (or you
can try to research it yourself).
Prior to Reading Story
After Discussion or Reading Story
What is autism?
Autism is a condition in which it is hard for a person to communicate with others. The person has
trouble linking words with their meanings. It is hard to make connections that other children
make. For example, if a child smiles, the child that has autism may not understand why that child
is happy. Also, a child with autism may react to situations in unusual ways. Loud noises, being
touched, or changes in routine can be hard.
What is a communication book?
A communication book is a device used by people with disabilities that cannot communicate
verbally with others. Instead they have a book that has words and/or pictures with the words that
they can point to in order to communicate with others.
What is an occupational therapist and what does this person do?
There are many different occupational therapists jobs. In this story, the occupational therapist
assists Jason, the boy in the wheelchair, with moving his limbs and also with helping him with
his communication book and how to communicate.
Prior to Reading
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Good readers will predict. Preview the story Rules and make a prediction about what the
book is about. Explain in your prediction basing on what you read from the back of the
book.
Answers will vary (AWV).
2010 Wise Guys ©
Good Readers will try to find meanings from the words…
Word Study
In order to better comprehend what they are reading, good readers will try to find the meanings of the key
vocabulary in the story. Please refer to the “Word Study” sheet in the back of your comprehension guide for the
words for each chapter.
If you have difficulty with some of the other vocabulary words from your reading, just remember that some
have more than one definition. So make sure the one you use fits the way you think it would be used in the
story.
Good Readers will use context clues…
Day 1 Reading: Pages 1-12
The story begins with a list of rules for David, Catherine’s brother. On the notebook below,
write down 5 rules that you have to follow at home.
AWV
Where is David’s favorite place? Why doesn’t Catherine like to go there with him? Where is
your favorite place to go?
David’s favorite place is the video store. She doesn’t like to go because he reads out loud
what it says on the video boxes and he looks at boxes when others are holding them. AWV
Strategy Focus: Infer
One of Catherine’s rules is “Sometimes you’ve gotta work with what you got.” Based on
what you have read in this chapter, what does she mean by this?
AWV. Catherine wants to ask the movers when the new neighbors will be moving in, and
she knows David is obsessed with 5:00, so she tries to drag David along to ask the movers
the question.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Why is Catherine looking forward to summer?
A new neighbor girl is moving in next door and she hopes to spend time with her
swimming, riding bikes, and watching T.V. Her best friend usually leaves in the summer.
Why does Catherine keep a sketchbook that has rules for David?
She hopes that one day if David wakes up normal, he will know how the world works. And
she wouldn’t have to explain things.
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
Catherine writes down, “Sometimes people don’t answer because they don’t hear
you. Other times it’s because they don’t want to hear you.”
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
In this chapter, you are introduced to David who has autism. His sister Catherine has
written down many rules for him. In the chart below write down how these same rules
affect your life. Give an example if you can.
David’s Rules
Don’t stand in front of
the TV when other
people are watching it.
How do these rules even affect me?
AWV
Say “excuse me,”
after you burp.
AWV
Flush!
AWV
If you say something over
and over, maybe they’ll
give in to shut you up.
AWV
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 2 Reading: Pages 13-28
Why does Catherine like to come to David’s appointments?
Good readers will use strategies to help understand the story…
She likes to talk to her mom, shop in the stores across the street, and loves the road that
follows along the ocean. It’s also the only time she gets her mom to herself.
In the speech bubble below, write down why Catherine likes to draw, and how she
overcame her fear of snakes.
She can change how she feels about something by
drawing. It makes her find the curves, the
shadows, the ins and outs, and the beautiful parts.
She overcame her fear by drawing a snake and
seeing how perfect the scales were.
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
As Catherine’s mom reads Harry Potter to her, she thinks about how useful an invisible
cloak would be. Next to the cloak below, write about two situations where you would like to
have this cloak and why.
AWV
What wish did Catherine make for Jason? Why?
She wanted Jason’s mom to go and buy the guitar for him.
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
Have you ever had to sit for a long time in a waiting room? What should these waiting
rooms have that would keep you occupied so you wouldn’t get bored. Explain you reasons
why.
AWV
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 3 Reading: Pages 29-49
Strategy Focus: Character Analysis
What kind of person do you think Ryan is? Give specific examples from this chapter that
support your position.
AWV. Many will say that Ryan is mean because he wanted to steal David’s umbrella. He
also mimicked how David laughed.
Why is Catherine’s dad usually late? Why is this frustrating for her?
He works at a pharmacy and sometimes people stop in at the last minute to fill
prescriptions, or a salesman stopping by with drug samples. She knows he will always be
late, but David doesn’t understand so it makes it hard on her to always reassure him that
dad will come home.
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
“Late does not mean not coming.”
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Write the three conversation rules that Catherine created for David in the speech bubble
below.
1. Don’t use two words when one will
do.
2. If you don’t have the words you need,
borrow someone else’s.
3. If you need to borrow words, Arnold
Lobel wrote some good ones.
Catherine is excited to meet her new friend. What are some activities that she hopes her
new friend will like?
Catherine hopes she’ll like swimming, guinea pigs, is a little bit shy, likes to draw and read,
and likes to send Morse code messages.
Jason has many cards in his communication book. Fill in the cards below by choosing four
that he has in his book. Write the word neatly and draw a small picture inside each card.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 4 Reading: Pages 50-65
Strategy Focus: Visualize
Good readers will try to draw a picture in their head about what they are reading.
Draw a picture of what Catherine’s bedroom looks like. Make sure to label at least five
items in your picture.
Pictures will vary. Make sure the students label 5 items.
What did Catherine include on the cards she made for Jason? Choose five words and write
them on the cards below.
Drawing Guinea pig Gross! Awesome! Stinks a big one! Rule
Why is a fish tank mentioned in today’s reading?
David likes to throw objects in the fish tank. This time it was a Barbie doll.
Strategy Focus: Inference
Catherine states that, “Everyone expects a tiny bit from him and a huge lot from me.” What
evidence from the book supports this?
AWV. She has to wait with him for her dad to arrive and he is always late. She has to watch
him a lot at home when her mom is busy.
Why didn’t Catherine invite the new neighbors over for a barbeque?
As she was about to, David made shrieking noises in the yard, and she thought the new
neighbor lady didn’t like that. Also because I think she may be a little bit embarrassed
about her brother’s condition.
Strategy Focus: Making Connections
Have you ever felt like you weren’t appreciated? Explain the situation.
AWV.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 5 Reading: Pages 66-88
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text for Fun
Good readers will extend the text. In this part of the story, Catherine brings her CD player
to the clinic for Jason to use. For this activity, you are asked to make up a name of a band,
create 5 song titles, and design the cover a CD based on what you read. All of what you
create should relate to what you read. Be able to explain in your group how your song titles
relate to your reading.
Band Name: __________________________________
Five Song Titles
1.
2.
4.
5.
3.
CD Cover
Design a CD cover fop your
band. Remember to include
some of the top songs!
Type of Music
What type of music does
your band play:









Rock n’ Roll
Country
Classical
Hip Hop
Jazz
Blues
Reggae
Rap
Other: ________
Strategy Focus: Extending the Text
For this focus, you do not have to write anything down.
All you need to do is think about it and be ready to share.
“Some people think they know who you are, when really they don’t.
Good readers will think about what they are reading…
Strategy Focus: Character Analysis
The character Kristi is introduced on page 79. Please describe her as Catherine sees her
new neighbor.
She knows that Kristi will be popular. She has shiny straight brown hair. She is wearing
frayed jean shorts and a T-shirt.
Strategy Focus: Simile
A simile is a figure of speech in which two unlike things are compared. The key words
“like” or “as” are often used within the sentence where you would find a simile. Why do
you think Catherine thought that “Ryan was as nice as a cockroach.”
AWV. It means that he isn’t nice. He’s an ugly bug that does no good.
What problem did David have when he rushed into Catherine’s room? Why did David put
his hands over his head in her room?
The audiocassette tape had come unwound. The guinea pigs were making noise and that
bothered David.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 6 Reading: Pages 89-112
Strategy Focus: Compare and Contrast
Good readers will compare and contrast to help comprehend…
Compare and contrast Kristi’s family rules to your family rules. Put your answers in the
spaces below. Please try to have at least 2 descriptions or phrases in each part.
Kristi’s family rules
No snacks before supper.
Call if you’re going to be late.
Homework first.
Your family rules
AWV
AWV
Who does Kristi want Catherine to ask out on a date? What is Catherine’s reaction?
She wants her to ask the boy that Catherine drew out. She says that he doesn’t go to the
same school.
What were some differences that Catherine noticed about her house compared to Kristi’s.
Write those differences in the box next to the house below.
There were no locks on the doors, no little kid videos next to the TV, no
safety plugs in the outlets, and a box of cookies left out on the kitchen
table.
What did Jason give Catherine’s mom when she wasn’t at the clinic? What was Catherine’s
reaction?
He gave her carrots for the guinea pigs. Catherine felt guilty for missing, and she wants to
make it up to him.
What did Catherine bring to the clinic the next time? What was Jason’s reaction?
She brought a guinea pig. He pointed to the card “awesome.”
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Before you read pages 104-112, predict at least two new cards Catherine will make for
Jason. Explain your prediction for each.
AWV
2010 Wise Guys ©
Why does Catherine have a knot in her stomach?
She sees Kristi playing basketball with Ryan outside. She doesn’t like Ryan.
Strategy Focus: Understanding Phrases
Catherine thinks, “I’m torn between all losing choices.” What were the choices and why
does she think they are not in her favor?
David would scream if Catherine tries to send him in as Ryan and Kristi come over. Also
her mom would be mad and think that she is selfish. If she keeps her brother outside, she
is afraid Ryan will pick on him. She also doesn’t want David to come between her new
friendship with Kristi.
What does Ryan tell David to do? Why does this become a problem for Catherine?
He tells David to jump. David doesn’t stop jumping so Catherine tries to get him to stop.
On the bubble below, write about what happens when Ryan gives David a piece of gum.
Ryan gives David an
empty gum wrapper.
David head butts
Catherine’s shirt and
says it’s all gone.
Catherine calls Ryan a
jerk and tells Ryan to
leave.
Strategy Focus: Metaphors
A metaphor is a figure of speech in which two nouns are either compared or contrasted
to each other. Catherine is comparing her brother to an apple. Describe the metaphor
below.
David can look like a normal kid on the outside like a shiny red apple, but on the inside he
can be like a first bite into a brown, mushy apple-broken.
What new words is Catherine adding to her sketchbook after her bad day? Write four of
them on the cards below.
Unfair, cruel, hate, ruined, murky, teased, embarrassed
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 7 Reading: Pages 113-128
Why didn’t Catherine want to share her words with Jason? What was Jason’s reaction?
She didn’t want to share the words because they were all bad words. She also didn’t want
Jason to feel sorry for her, because according to her, he and David are worse off. Jason
wanted to see all the bad words.
Strategy Focus: Vocabulary
One of the cards that Catherine makes is “murky.” Next to the pond below write about how
Catherine explains what this word means.
Catherine starts by explaining about how she would jump into
water and grab the squishy murky stuff at the bottom of the
pond. She then realizes that Jason does not swim and the word
murky doesn’t work. But Jason asks about how she felt murky
and she told him about what Ryan did to her brother David.
She tells him she felt like she was stuck at the bottom in the
murky stuff.
What three cards does David point to that surprise you? Why did he point to these?
The cards were: I, wish, die. He feels like he is incomplete.
Strategy Focus: Comparing Emotions
After David shares his cards about how he feels, what card does Catherine grab? Why?
She grabs “torn” because she feels like she is ripping in half. She wants to be free and run
away with her friends, but she doesn’t want to leave David because he can’t make it on his
own.
What does David sometimes dream about? How does Catherine try to make this come
true? Write it on the cloud below.
He dreams that he can sometimes run. She takes
him outside in the wheelchair and runs while
pushing him.
Strategy Focus: Inference
Catherine tries to get the attention of her father, but her father is preoccupied with his
tomatoes. How does Catherine feel about her relationship with her father based on what
you have read so far in the story?
AWV. It seems like every time Catherine wants to spend time with her father, her father:
comes home late, has to spend time with David, works on his tomatoes, or defers
everything to her mom.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 8 Reading: Pages 129-154
What had David put in the fish tank? Who had noticed it?
Kristi had noticed that David put a rubber duck in the fish tank.
Strategy Focus: Compare and Contrast
Compare and contrast Kristi’s and Catherine’s ideas of being split down the middle. Put
your answers in the spaces below. Please try to have at least 2 descriptions or phrases in
each part.
Kristi
Her parents are split.
She seems to never have
what she needs at the
right house
Catherine
torn
don’t belong
She is pulled between
the regular world of
school and friends, and
and David’s world
where none of the same
things matter.
Kristi and Catherine discuss what they would wish for if they had one wish. Fill in the
boxes below. Make sure to include your wish too!
Kristi’s Wish
She wishes her parents would
get back together and would be
happy.
Catherine’s Wish
Inside she wishes that she could
help fix David, but she distracts
Kristi onto another topic because
she doesn’t want to share.
My Wish
AWV
Why did Catherine write “guilty, complicated, hidden and weak” in her sketchbook?
Guilty-she felt bad for not telling Kristi who Jason is. Complicated-she knows it’s not that
easy for her to bring Jason based on what everyone would probably say. Hidden-she wants
her friendship with Jason to say hidden. Weak-she feels like she is not a strong person.
What new surprise did Jason have at the next appointment? What do they decide to do?
He had a motorized wheelchair. They take a walk down by the water.
At the end of the chapter what does Jason ask Catherine that makes her happy? Why?
She is asked to his birthday party on Saturday. That is the same day as the dance and this
way she will get out of having to go to the dance.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 9 Reading: Pages 155-177
Who comes over to Catherine’s house? What do they do?
Kristi comes over and they work on making posters for the dance.
What does Kristi ask David? What happens when she puts the CD in?
She asks David if he likes to dance. David starts dancing and steps on the markers and the
guinea pigs start squealing. David then yells at the guinea pigs. Catherine runs and turns
the CD off.
Why did Catherine turn the CD off?
She didn’t like to see anybody make fun of David.
What did Catherine buy at Elliot’s antique store? Who was it for?
She bought a guitar. It was for Jason.
What new words does Catherine make for Jason in the waiting room? Fill in four cards
below with the words and a reason why she chose those words.
Good readers will use strategie
Seagull-for the birds, wharf-for the place they took a walk to, sailboat-if they see one in the
water, pathway-the way they took to get to the water, bench-a place to sit, together-for
Jason and Catherine doing something together.
Why did Jason get mad with the “bench” word card?
It showed Jason and Catherine sitting on a bench. She thought he would like that in his
dream, but he was mad and wanted her to take it out because he is not like that.
What six cards does Jason show Catherine at the birthday party that causes Jason to
become upset with her? Why does this happen?
He shows her “Do you want to come? Dance.” She makes up excuses about how she can’t
dance, but Jason knows that she is ashamed to be seen with him.
Strategy Focus: Making Predictions
Catherine leaves the party crying. Before you read the next chapter, predict what you will
think will happen with Catherine and Jason’s relationship. Make sure to explain your
answer in detail.
AWV.
2010 Wise Guys ©
Day 10 Reading: Pages 178-200
Why does Catherine miss Melissa so much?
She misses her because she could tell her everything that was going on and she would
understand.
Who does Catherine call? What was the result of the phone call?
She tries to call Jason. He doesn’t want to come to the phone. She tells his mom that she
wants him to come to the dance with her.
Why does Catherine call her dad at work? Why does she say, “It’s an emergency!”
She calls her dad because she wants him to pay attention to her and to buy a new cassette
play and a new Frog and Toad cassette. She has to say the word “emergency” to get his
attention.
Catherine, David, and their dad all go to the dance. David sees flashing lights that look like
stars. Next to the two lights below write down what they wished for.
Catherine-wishes that everyone had the same chances
David-wishes for grape soda
When Jason finally arrives, Catherine shares four cards with him. Below write the words of
the four cards and why each card was important for her to share with him.
She
Complicated-she talks about how she feels when she watches how others look at and act
around David.
Hidden-She did not tell Kristi everything about Jason. She hid the main details from her.
Weak-she feels weak because she is not a strong person and needs to stand up for her true
feelings.
Guilty-She feels guilty for not being honest to Jason, Kristi, and herself.
What rule does Catherine break?
She broke the rule of her not dancing.
Strategy Focus: Author’s Purpose
Good readers will try to evaluate what they read. Did you like the way Cynthia Lord ended
the story? What did you think of this book? Were you surprised by the relationship
between Catherine and Jason?
AWV.
2010 Wise Guys ©