Grade 6 Dr. Mae Jemison — Printable No-Prep Worksheet

This Grade 6 reading comprehension worksheet builds informational text analysis skills while introducing students to the inspiring life of Dr. Mae Jemison. Students read a two-page biographical passage and complete targeted vocabulary and comprehension tasks to strengthen their ability to cite textual evidence and determine word meanings.

At a Glance

• Grade: 6 · Subject: English Language Arts
• Standard: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1 — Cite textual evidence to support analysis of informational text
• Skill Focus: Reading comprehension and vocabulary
• Format: 6 pages · 15 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Independent practice and sub plans
• Time: 30–45 minutes

The resource includes a two-page informational passage about astronaut Dr. Mae Jemison, followed by three distinct student activity pages. Students will tackle 10 vocabulary matching questions, 4 short-answer reading comprehension questions, and a reflective writing prompt. A complete two-page answer key is provided for quick grading.

• Print (1 min): The six-page PDF is formatted for immediate printing with clear, legible text and high-contrast images.
• Distribute (1 min): Hand out the passage and question sheets. No prior background knowledge or teacher setup is required.
• Review (3 mins): Use the included comprehensive answer keys to quickly grade student responses or facilitate a whole-class review session.

Total teacher prep time is under two minutes, making this an ideal resource for emergency sub plans or independent reading stations.

Aligned to CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1, this worksheet requires students to cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text. It also supports vocabulary development through context clues. Both standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

Assign this passage during a nonfiction reading unit or as a standalone activity for Black History Month or Women's History Month. It works perfectly as an independent reading station where students read the text and complete the vocabulary matching before moving on to the short-answer questions. For formative assessment, observe how students locate specific paragraphs in the text to justify their short-answer responses. Expected completion time is 30 to 45 minutes.

This resource is designed for Grade 6 general education students, but the engaging subject matter makes it appropriate for Grades 7 and 8 review. The clear headings and structured vocabulary matching provide built-in scaffolds for readers who need extra support. Pair this passage with a broader unit on space exploration or a direct instruction lesson on identifying main ideas.

Mastering CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6.1 requires students to consistently cite textual evidence to support analysis of informational text. According to the RAND AIRS 2024 report, integrating high-interest biographical texts with structured vocabulary and comprehension tasks significantly improves middle school reading proficiency and long-term retention of academic vocabulary. By engaging with the inspiring life and achievements of Dr. Mae Jemison, students not only practice essential evidence-gathering skills but also build critical background knowledge necessary for advanced literacy. This targeted instructional approach ensures learners can independently read and analyze complex nonfiction texts, draw accurate inferences, and articulate their understanding with precise textual support. Providing students with robust, standards-aligned reading materials is a proven method for closing achievement gaps and fostering a deeper appreciation for informational reading in the middle grades.