What do students do to make the substitute feel good?
Show them how things are done
What does the simile “Our classroom is like a puzzle with a brand-new piece today” mean?
There’s something new and it feels different
What does the word “routines” mean in the poem?
Usual ways things are done
What feeling is described by “not sure what they will say”?
nervous
Why might the routines change when there is a substitute?
The substitute may not know all the usual routines
What is the tone of the poem?
hopeful
How many stanzas are in this poem?
4
What is the main idea of the poem?
Having a substitute can be different but students can still have a good day
According to the poem, how might students feel when there’s a substitute?
Nervous or excited
What can you infer about the students from the poem?
They do not like change, or not having their teacher at school with them.
Is this line a simile or metaphor: “The rules are like shoes that don’t quite fit” suggest?
simile
What does the poet compare missing their regular teacher to?
Missing the sun on a cloudy day
What is the effect of comparing missing the teacher to missing the sun?
It shows the teacher is important to students, so they will help the substitute
What lesson can students learn from the poem?
Working together helps everyone adjust to changes
Which of these words is a synonym for “grin” as used in the poem?
smile
How do students respond to having a substitute teacher, according to the poem?
They try to help and work together
What is one way the students can help make the day better with a substitute?
Being patient and helpful