A 3rd-grade reading and writing lesson designed to master the RACCE framework (Restate, Answer, Cite evidence 1, Cite evidence 2, Explain). Students analyze character motivation in realistic fiction, stamp key vocabulary, find the two strongest pieces of text evidence, and craft a complete RACCE response.
[R] [A] In the story “The Great Pumpkin Challenge” by Johanna Hurwitz, Lucas decides to bring a giant pumpkin to class because he wants to prove to Mrs. Hockaday that he is a responsible student who can do his homework better than anyone else.
[C1] According to the text in paragraph 1, Lucas told his mother, “I will be a great student” because he did not want to be known as just the class clown anymore.
[C2] Additionally, the author writes in paragraph 4 that “he wanted to prove to Mrs. Hockaday that he could do his homework better than anyone!”
[E] This evidence proves that Lucas is motivated by a desire to change his teacher's mind and show that he is serious about doing excellent schoolwork.
Criteria for Success (CFS) Scoring Matrix
Step
Mastery Criteria
Look-Fors
R (Restate)
Names author, puts story title in quotes, uses prompt wording.
Quotation marks around title.
A (Answer)
Gives specific inference answering "Why?" (not just repeating plot).
Clear character motivation.
C1 & C2 (Cite)
Provides two direct quotes with lead-in transitions and quotation marks.
2 quotes, accurate citation lead-ins.
E (Explain)
Explains connection between evidence and motivation using "This proves...".
Does not just summarize quote.
Real-Time Coaching Prompts & Misconceptions
Misconception: Cites Only 1 Quote Prompt: "Remember the second C in RACCE! What second sentence in paragraph 4 shows what Lucas wants to prove?"
Misconception: Explaining by Restating Prompt: "Don't just repeat what Lucas did with the pumpkin! Tell me WHY that proves he wants to be a great student."
Both sentences are clear, easy to read, and zoom straight into Lucas's motivation!
The Complete Halloween RACCE Exemplar
R A C1 C2 E
R A In the story “The Great Pumpkin Challenge” by Johanna Hurwitz, Lucas decides to bring a giant pumpkin to class because he wants to prove to Mrs. Hockaday that he can do his homework better than anyone.
C1 According to the text in paragraph 1, Lucas told his mom, “I will be a great student” because he did not want to be just the class clown anymore.
C2 Additionally, the author writes in paragraph 4 that “he wanted to prove to Mrs. Hockaday that he could do his homework better than anyone!”
E This evidence proves that Lucas wants to change his teacher's mind and show that he is serious about doing great schoolwork.
Notice: Every letter of RACCE has its own job! Clear, complete, and fully supported!
Your Turn: Write Like a Champion
Independent Writing
Writing Mission
Open your worksheet to Part 2. Use your starred quotes from the story to write your full RACCE response.
⏱️ Time: 12–15 Minutes
🤫 Focus: Silent & Independent Writing
Criteria for Success
R: Author & story title named
A: Clear answer about Lucas's motivation
C & C: TWO direct quotes with lead-ins
E: Explains how evidence proves answer
Check off each letter on your worksheet checklist before submitting your work!
Grade 3 Narrative RACCE Answer Key • “The Great Pumpkin Challenge” Classroom Resource
