Rat Year Beginnings Response Sheet
Grace Lin • Novel Study Grade 3 • Chapters 1–3
The Year of the Rat
Short Response • Answer in complete sentences using clues from the book!
Name:
Date:
Book Detective Rule: Always look back in the chapters to find clues that prove your answer!
Prove It!
1 Chapter 1 • Welcoming the New Year Reading Comprehension
In Chapter 1, what kind of year is the Year of the Rat supposed to be? Name one tradition or custom Grace’s family follows to celebrate, and tell why they do it.
(Helpful start: “The Year of the Rat brings... One tradition Grace’s family has is...”)
2 Chapter 2 • Surprising News Character Feelings
Melody’s parents say moving to California is “good news.” How does Grace feel when she hears this? Give one clue from Chapter 2 that shows Grace does not agree that the news is good.
(Helpful start: “Grace feels... A clue from the book that shows this is...”)
Story Clue: Grace was told the Rat year brings “fresh starts and new beginnings.” Think about how that prediction starts coming true right away!
The Year of the Rat • Chapters 1–3 Page 1 of 2
The Year of the Rat | Chapters 1–3 • Questions & Reflection
Name:
3 Chapter 3 • Best Friends at School Friendship Clues
Why is Melody such a special friend to Grace at school? What is Grace worried or afraid will happen after Melody moves away? Use details from Chapter 3 to explain.
(Helpful start: “Melody is special to Grace because... Grace is worried that...”)
4 Chapters 1–3 • Facing Big Changes Big Ideas
In Chapter 1, Grace thinks a year of “change” will be exciting. By Chapter 3, how has change become scary for Grace? What does Grace do or say that shows she wishes things would stay the same?
(Helpful start: “Change becomes scary because... Grace shows she wants things to stay the same by...”)
Friend-to-Friend Advice Your Thinking
Imagine you are Grace’s classmate. What kind words or advice would you tell Grace to help her feel brave about Melody moving to California?
The Year of the Rat • Chapters 1–3 Page 2 of 2
