The Bluebird Painting

This worksheet helps students in Grades 4, 5, and 6 strengthen grammar understanding, reading comprehension, and analytical thinking by comparing correct and incorrect uses of by and with in narrative writing. Students read two short mini-stories-one grammatically accurate and one flawed-and decide which version makes logical sense, then explain their reasoning in one or two complete sentences.

Learning Goals

• Evaluating Grammar Accuracy (Grades 4-6): Distinguish between correct and incorrect uses of by and with within meaningful text.
• Preposition Use in Narrative Contexts: Understand how by identifies the agent of an action and with identifies the tool or instrument used.
• Analytical Reading Skills: Detect subtle grammar errors that change meaning and clarity in descriptive writing.
• Written Justification: Explain grammatical choices clearly using evidence from the text.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource: Designed by educators to align with upper elementary ELA grammar and reading standards.
• Compare-and-Contrast Format: Side-by-side mini-stories help students see how grammar affects logic and meaning.
• Builds Metacognitive Awareness: Encourages students to think about why a sentence works, not just whether it is correct.
• Flexible Classroom Use: Ideal for grammar lessons, reading groups, discussion-based activities, or assessment prep.
• Low-Prep Printable: Easy to use in both classroom and homeschool settings.

This printable worksheet helps students deepen their understanding of by and with through careful reading and explanation. By identifying the more logical version of a story and justifying their choice, learners strengthen grammar accuracy, comprehension, and written reasoning. Whether used in a classroom language arts block or a homeschool lesson, this resource supports precise language use, critical thinking, and clear explanation skills.

This worksheet is part of our by vs. with worksheets collection.