Back to School Blues Reading Comprehension Worksheet - Have Fun ... - Free Printable

The image you've uploaded is a short story titled "Back to School Blues" by *Have Fun Teaching*. It's a narrative that explores the common feelings of reluctance and anxiety students may have about returning to school, using dialogue between two siblings—Jimmy and Susan—to highlight these emotions and ultimately shift toward a more positive perspective.

Let’s break down the problem, solution, and explanation based on the story.

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🌟 Problem:

Jimmy is feeling unhappy and reluctant about going back to school. He expresses several reasons why he doesn’t want to return:

- He doesn’t want to get up early.
- He dislikes doing homework every night.
- He finds school seats uncomfortable.
- He thinks school is boring compared to watching TV.
- He feels like he can’t become a superstar (like an athlete or actor) without special talents.

These complaints reflect typical "back-to-school blues"—a mix of fear, boredom, and resistance to routine.

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✔ Solution:

Susan, Jimmy’s sister, helps him reframe his thinking by:

1. Challenging his excuses:
- She points out that most athletes and actors work hard for years and are educated.
- She reminds him that talent isn’t just innate—it’s developed through effort.

2. Highlighting the benefits of school:
- Homework reduces chores at home.
- TV is only fun in moderation; sitting in front of it all day is boring.
- Friends are at school, which makes it a social place.

3. Encouraging a positive mindset:
- She reminds him that school offers exciting things: learning new things, pizza for lunch, and time with friends.

Eventually, Jimmy realizes that school has many positives, and he admits he’s actually excited to go back.

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🧠 Explanation of the Solution:

This story uses dialogue and persuasion to teach emotional regulation and critical thinking. Susan doesn’t just tell Jimmy to “be happy”—she reasons with him, helping him see the value in school from multiple angles:

- Practical benefits: Less chore work when doing homework.
- Social connection: Being with friends.
- Personal growth: Learning new things.
- Realistic expectations: Superstars aren’t born—they’re made through effort.

By the end, Jimmy shifts from resistance to excitement, showing how perspective changes can transform negative feelings into positive anticipation.

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💡 Key Takeaway:

The story teaches that reluctance is normal, but rethinking your attitude—especially by focusing on the benefits—can make a big difference. It also models how to talk through feelings with empathy and logic.

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✍️ Possible Discussion Questions (if used in a classroom):

1. Why did Jimmy not want to go back to school?
2. How did Susan help Jimmy feel better?
3. What are some good things about going to school?
4. Have you ever felt this way about school? What helped you feel better?

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✔ Final Answer:
The problem is Jimmy’s reluctance to return to school due to boredom, discomfort, and unrealistic dreams. The solution is Susan’s thoughtful reasoning, which helps Jimmy recognize the real benefits of school—leading him to feel excited about going back. This shows how positive communication and reframing perspectives can turn "back-to-school blues" into excitement.