Reel in Success with This Nonfiction Text Features Matching Activity for Texas test prep!
Reel in Success with This Texas Reading Test Prep Freebie!
If the thought of Texas reading test prep makes you groan, let me introduce you to a resource that turns it all around—Gone Fishin’! This fun, interactive activity will have your third, fourth, and fifth graders engaged, motivated, and actually excited about test prep and nonfiction features. Yes, really!
What is Gone Fishin’?
Gone Fishin’ is a free, hands-on activity designed to make reviewing text features fun and memorable. Instead of the usual worksheets, your students will play this Go Fish-style game and “fish” for new cards instead of just picking up from a pile. It’s perfect for pairs, small groups, or centers!
Why You’ll Love It
- Engaging: It feels more like a game than a test prep activity! Your students will be so into “fishing” that they’ll forget they’re reviewing.
- Aligned with Standards: Whether you’re focusing on TEKS or other state standards, Gone Fishin’ helps reinforce key skills in an enjoyable way.
- Easy to Prep: All you need to do is print, cut, and add some fishing fun!
“I am a big fan of room transformations, and I used this resource to do a camping theme for reading review prior to our state assessment. The kids were actively engaged. They especially enjoyed playing “Go Fish” with text features. So MUCH fun!” – Deborah, 4th grade teacher
How to Use It
- In pairs: Students get seven cards each then the remaining cards are laid out on the floor. Like Go Fish, students ask each other if they have a certain feature card to make a match. Instead of picking up when they don’t have the card, they “cast their lines” to catch a new card from the pond and play continues. And of course, the player with the most matches wins!
- Group Work: Divide students into small groups and let them take turns fishing and matching. You’ll love the collaboration and discussions as they work through the activity.
- Classroom Rotation: Include Gone Fishin’ as part of your test prep stations. It’s an excellent way to keep things moving and keep your students engaged.
- Find your own match: Alternatively, students can draw/fish for a card and find an example in their own writing or provided texts. This activity it great for making connections and comparing and discussing different examples of the same feature! You can even build a collaborative chart like the ones below:
Make It Your Own
Want to take the fishing theme to the next level? Here are some fun ideas:
- Set up a small “pond” with blue butcher paper or fabric.
- Use a fishing pole with a magnet or a simple stick with string for extra fun!
- Use plastic fish with cards attached for a 3D effect.
- Add a fishing hat or tackle box to the setup for extra flair.
Grab Your Freebie!
If you’re ready to reel in your students’ interest and make test prep fun, grab Gone Fishin’ for free using the form below! Trust me, it’ll be a hit with your students, and you’ll love seeing them engaged and learning at the same time.
Gone Fishin’ for free!
If you’d like more engaging and interactive test prep activities just like this one, check out my Camp Reading Ready – Texas RLA Reading Test Prep Camp & Review. You’ll get Gone Fishin’ along with nine other test review station activities.
Let’s make test prep a little more fun and a whole lot more memorable! 🎣✨
