Section 1:Chapters 1-3
Vocabulary
- solution: an answer to a problem
- collection: a gathering of objects
- nutrition: nourishment received from food
- dictionary: a book that gives words their meanings
- squabble: a noisy argument
- dilemma: a difficult choice
Vocabulary Sentences
- The student used the class dictionary to complete his vocabulary homework.
- It is important to practice good nutrition to have a healthy body.
- Jody faced a dilemma when she had to choose between two types of ice cream.
- My father has a large collection of antique model trains.
- The teacher had to break up the squabble between two students on the playground.
- Finding the right solution to a difficult math problem can take time.
Comprehension Questions
- Donavan collects words in a jar. (pg. 6)
- Donavan is inspired to begin his collection when he sees a new word on a cereal box. (pg. 7)
- Donavan discovers the word “ballyhoo” on his way to school. (pg. 9)
- Donavan likes the word “hush” because it soothes his fears. (pg. 13)
- Donavan’s favorite way of collecting words is from people. (pg. 14)
- Donavan’s dilemma is that his collection is too large for his jar. (pg. 15)
- Mrs. Panky suggests that Donavan start his own dictionary. (pg. 19)
Section 2: Chapters 4-5
Vocabulary
- rhythm: a repeated pattern of sound
- splatter: to splash something
- squint: to half close the eyes to see better
- snuffles: a stuffy nose from a cold
- hesitant: reluctant to do or say something
- canvas: a stiff, strong cloth
Vocabulary Sentences
- Sara loves to splatter bright color onto her canvas when she paints.
- The small boy was hesitant to pet the large dog.
- The sun was so bright that Joe had to squint as he watched the baseball game.
- The sailor’s duffle bag was made out of white canvas.
- The drummer made sure that the band’s rhythm was steady.
- Even though Amy had the snuffles, she still sang in the performance.
Comprehension Questions
- Donavan sees lots of umbrellas when he looks out of his window. (pg. 26)
- Donavan wants to visit his grandma. (pg. 27)
- Donavan does not want to stay at home because he really wants to see his grandmother. (pg. 28)
- Mom needs to take a copy of Dad’s business card to the printer. (pg. 29)
- Nikki is sitting in the middle of her bed with a box of tissues in her lap, with her stuffed animals, games, books, and toys all around her. (pg. 31)
- Nikki wants to look at Donavan’s word collection because they might make her feel better. (pg. 33)
- Nikki wants silly words, happy words, get-well words, and magic words. (pg. 34)
Section 3: Chapters 6-7
Vocabulary
- wonder: feeling of surprise
- pleasant: pleasing and enjoyable
- lullaby: a gentle song for children
- drizzle: light rain
- display: to be shown
- glitter: to shine with a shimmering light
Vocabulary Sentences
- Sitting on the beach and watching the waves roll to shore was a pleasant activity.
- The boy was filled with wonder as the fireworks exploded in the night sky.
- When it began to drizzle, Kara pulled out her pink umbrella.
- Mark noticed the snowman glitter in the sunshine.
- Mother sang her favorite lullaby every night as she put her little baby to sleep.
- During Christmas, there is a large display at the center of town.
Comprehension Questions
- Donavan tiptoes across the room because he didn’t want Nikki to wake up. (pg. 38)
- Donavan asks his dad if he can visit his grandma. (pg. 39)
- Donavan tucks the word jar under his arm because it is raining outside. (pg. 41)
- Grandma decided to sell her big house after Grandpa died. (pg. 43)
- Donavan can visit his grandmother anytime he wants because she lives only a few blocks away. (pg. 43)
- Grandma collects anything she is given from family and friends. (pg. 44)
- Donavan likes to visit Grandma’s picture wall whenever he misses his grandpop. (pg. 45)
Section 4: chapters 8-10
Vocabulary
- leisure: free time
- perseverance: not giving up
- bamboozle: to trick somebody
- hassock: a footstool
- diplomacy: skill in dealing with other people
- lounge: a room for waiting
Vocabulary Sentences
- This summer, the students will enjoy their leisure time.
- Dad uses the hassock to rest his weary feet after a day of work.
- On April Fool’s Day, people traditionally bamboozle family and friends for fun.
- I was asked to wait in the hotel’s lounge before they took me to my room.
- Kayla’s great diplomacy helped her to get her bicycle back from the bully.
- The runner needed great perseverance to finish the marathon.
Comprehension Questions
- Grandma suggests that Donavan trade his words for other things. (pg. 51)
- Grandma says the word “persnickety” is perfect for Miz Marylou because she has to have everything just right. (pg. 52)
- Donavan is disappointed at the end of his visit because he still doesn’t have a solution. (pg. 54)
- Donavan stops the Miz Marylou and Mr. Bill gut from arguing when he hands them the word compromise. (pg. 58)
- Donavan returns to Grandma’s apartment to invite her over for dinner. (pg. 60)
- Donavan is excited because his words changed Grandma’s neighbors and made him feel like a magician. (pg. 69)
- Grandma has Grandpop’s humidor in the brown bag. (pgs. 69-70)