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El Deafo

By: Cece Bell
Reading Level: 410L
Maturity Level: 12 and under

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Summer ends. I find out that I will soon start first grade in a new school.

“Will I be in a class like Dorn’s class?”

“No sweetie. They don’t have a class like that in your new school. But you’ll be going to school with your new neighborhood friends! You’re getting a brand-new, super powerful, just-for-school hearing aid that will help you hear better!”

“Is it smaller than this one?”

“Well, it’s bigger, but you’ll hear so much more! And you can wear the little one at home.”

“The neighborhood kids? A bigger aid?”

Mom walks me to school on the first day. We’ve been here once before, and I already know where my classroom is. But I’m still scared. I wear my favorite shirt…well hidden, I hope, is my brand-new, super powerful, just-for-school hearing aid: The Phonic Ear.

“Have a great day!”

“Bye, Mama.”

Comprehension Questions


1. What does the narrator hope is well-hidden?
A. Her kosher lunch.
B. Her prayer book.
C. Her hearing aid.


2. Why is she nervous?
A. It's her first day at a new school in a new neighborhood.
B. She misses her father.
C. She doesn't like her outfit.

Your Thoughts


3. Did you like this excerpt? Why or why not?




Vocabulary


4. List any vocabulary words below.




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