Solution to the "New Friend" Reading Comprehension Worksheet
Let's go through each question and answer it based on the passage provided.
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1. Who are the main characters?
Answer: The main characters are the narrator (the student writing the passage) and Calliope.
> *Explanation:* The passage is written from the perspective of a child who introduces their new friend, Calliope. The narrator shares details about themselves and Calliope, making both of them central to the story.
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2. Where had Calliope lived?
Answer: Calliope lived on a farm in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
> *Explanation:* The passage states: “Calliope is my new friend. She is 6 and just moved to our town from Sioux Falls, South Dakota.” It also mentions that she lived on a farm with cows and pigs.
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3. How were the two friends different?
Answer: They were different in several ways:
- Calliope lived on a farm with cows and pigs; the narrator only has a dog.
- Calliope has four brothers; the narrator is an only child.
- Calliope likes country music; the narrator prefers Top 40 music.
- The narrator collects shells from Rhode Island beaches; Calliope collects rocks with fossils from South Dakota hills.
> *Explanation:* These differences are clearly stated in the first paragraph of the passage. The contrast highlights how they come from different backgrounds and have different interests at first.
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4. How were the two friends alike?
Answer: They are alike because:
- Both like to read.
- Both enjoy playing with Barbie dolls and sharing Barbie clothes.
- Both collect natural items—shells and rocks/fossils.
> *Explanation:* In the second paragraph, the narrator says, “After knowing Calliope for a few weeks, though, I realized that we are a lot alike, too.” This leads into the shared interests listed above.
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Ask a question about this text.
Example Question: Why does the narrator think Calliope is a good friend?
> *Explanation:* This is a thoughtful question that can be answered by reading the text. The narrator notes their similarities in hobbies and interests, which likely make them good friends despite their differences. Other possible questions could include:
> - What did the narrator learn about Calliope after spending time together?
> - How do the girls’ collections reflect where they live?
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✔ Final Answers Summary:
1.
Main characters: The narrator and Calliope
2.
Where Calliope lived: On a farm in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
3.
Differences: Farm animals vs. dog, siblings vs. only child, music preferences, and collections
4.
Similarities: Both like reading, Barbie dolls, and collecting nature items
5.
Your own question: Example – *Why does the narrator think Calliope is a good friend?*
This worksheet helps students practice reading comprehension, identifying character traits, comparing and contrasting, and forming questions based on text evidence.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of reading worksheet for 6th grade with answer key.
