Finally — a reading comprehension and grammar resource that actually grabs your students’ attention while building the exact ELA skills they’ll need for state testing.
Many middle schoolers — especially students with ADHD — lose focus with low‑interest, generic passages. This high‑interest sports nonfiction lesson solves that problem by pairing a compelling NBA & ABA history article with rigorous comprehension and grammar practice, all in one structured, easy‑to‑follow format.
Students read The Shot That Changed Basketball Forever — the story of how the three‑point shot evolved from its bold beginnings in the ABA to becoming a game‑changing strategy in the NBA. Along the way, they’ll discover how Stephen Curry redefined modern shooting, how Larry Bird used the three‑pointer strategically in the 1980s, and even a nod to legends like Michael Jordan.
Why This Works for All Learners
High‑interest nonfiction → Sports history hooks reluctant and ADHD readers.
Clear, consistent structure → Reading first, then grammar — no jumping between skill sets.
Visually uncluttered layout → Reduces overwhelm, supports focus.
Built‑in rigor → STAAR‑style questions, balanced distractors, authentic grammar in context.
Covers 8 Tested ELA Skills
Reading Comprehension (5)
Main Idea
Inference
Author’s Purpose
Supporting Details
Vocabulary in Context
Grammar in Context (3)
6. Commas & Sentence Punctuation
7. Sentence Structure & Clarity
8. Verb & Possessive Forms
What’s Included
Nonfiction Article – The Shot That Changed Basketball Forever
10‑Question Reading Comprehension Quiz – STAAR‑style rigor
10‑Question Grammar in Context Quiz – All examples drawn from the article
Teacher Answer Key with Explanations – Clear reasoning for every correct and incorrect choice
Why Teachers Love It
✔ Two skills in one lesson — saves class time without losing rigor
✔ High‑interest content — keeps even reluctant readers engaged
✔ Test‑style practice — prepares students for state assessments
✔ Teacher‑friendly key — fast grading and easy reteaching
Perfect For
5th–6th Grade ELA
Reading & Grammar Test Prep
STAAR Preparation
Grammar in Context Lessons
Sub Plans
Homework or Independent Practice
Format: Printable PDF
Student Pages: 5 (plus teacher key & explanations)
No specification available