Look Both Ways Reading Comprehension Questions
by Jason Reynolds
Book Summary
Look Both Ways is a collection of ten interconnected short stories, each focusing on different students from Latimer Middle School as they walk home. The book explores the diverse experiences, fears, dreams, and observations of these middle schoolers, revealing the complex inner lives and vibrant community that exists during the journey from school to home. Each chapter introduces new characters and scenarios, sometimes with characters from previous stories appearing in the background, creating a rich tapestry of adolescent life.
Reading Comprehension Questions
Use these 19 questions to check understanding and spark deeper thinking about Look Both Ways.
1.What is TJ's biggest fear that Jasmine often uses in her pranks?
2.What does Fatima believe the dog she sees actually is?
3.Why do you think Canton feels the need to hit lampposts and mailboxes on his way home?
4.What can you infer about Bryce's personality based on his interactions with Sandra?
5.What does Pia's internal monologue about picking up Kenzi suggest about her feelings?
6.Why does Bryson use music and distraction to help Gregory get home quickly?
7.What is a central theme explored in 'The Broom Dog' chapter?
8.Which of the following best represents a major theme of the entire book, 'Look Both Ways'?
9.What lesson about community can be learned from the chapter 'The Bridge'?
10.How does Ms. Johnson's perspective in 'The Kickball Game' contribute to the book's overall message?
11.Compare and contrast Jasmine and Saira's approaches to their friends' unique perspectives.
12.What is the significance of the title 'Look Both Ways' for the book as a whole?
13.In the context of 'How to Look,' what does the word 'oblivious' mean when describing Bryce?
14.What does the word 'resilience' mean, as shown by Ms. Johnson's thoughts about her students?
15.What does it mean for a space to be 'liminal,' as the bus stop is described?
16.In 'The Low Cuts Strike Again,' Jasmine's grin is described as 'mischievous.' What does 'mischievous' mean in this context?
17.If you were in Pia's situation, having to pick up your snot-nosed little brother every day, what would be the most challenging part for you, and how might you try to make it easier?
18.The book shows how many different stories and feelings exist on a simple walk home. How does this change your perspective on the people you see every day but don't know well?
19.Mr. Munch and Ms. Johnson, the adults in the stories, observe their students with care and understanding. How important do you think it is for adults in a community to pay attention to and support young people, even in small ways?
Key Vocabulary
Important words from Look Both Ways to discuss with your child.
Discussion Prompts
Great conversation starters for parents and teachers reading Look Both Ways with children.
What was your favorite part of Look Both Ways? Why did it stand out to you?
If you could talk to any character from Look Both Ways, who would you choose and what would you ask them?
How did Look Both Ways make you feel? Can you describe a moment that surprised you?
Would you recommend Look Both Ways to a friend? What would you tell them about it?
What lesson or message do you think Jason Reynolds wanted young readers to learn from this story?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What reading level is Look Both Ways?
Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds is recommended for grades 1-3 readers with an AR level of 4.6. It's an excellent choice for building reading comprehension skills at this level.
What are good comprehension questions for Look Both Ways?
ReadBuddy provides 19 carefully crafted comprehension questions for Look Both Ways, covering literal comprehension, vocabulary, and inference skills. These questions help students engage deeply with the story.
How can I use Look Both Ways for reading practice?
Read the book together or independently, then use ReadBuddy's comprehension questions to check understanding. Focus on vocabulary words, discuss character motivations, and encourage your child to make connections to their own experiences.
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