The Colors of Holi: A New Perspective
In a quiet corner of New Jersey, Tom, a sixth grader, was invited by his best friend, Aman, to celebrate Holi, an Indian festival. Excited yet nervous, Tom arrived at Aman s house and was immediately greeted by the lively ambience and smell of homemade sweets. Aman explained that Holi is also known as the Festival of Colors . It originates from Hindu mythology and signifies the triumph of good over evil. The festival starts with a Holika Dahan where people gather around a bonfire, sing, and dance, symbolizing the burning of negative energies. Next day, armed with bags full of various colored powders and water guns, they charged at each other playfully, coating everyone in a vibrant palette. Laughter echoed through the air as the neighborhood turned into a canvas of joy. After the colorful mayhem, everyone indulged in traditional sweets like Gujiya . Aman s father explained that Holi is a time to forgive, renew relationships, and embrace unity and brotherhood. As Tom, colorful from head to toe, reflected on the day’s events, he realized Holi was more than just a festival. It was a lesson about love, unity, and the power of good.
Question 1
What is the name of the friend who invited Tom to celebrate Holi?
Harry
Aman
Mike
James
Question 2
What does Holi signify?
The end of summer
The beginning of winter
The triumph of good over evil
The arrival of spring
Question 3
What is one of the traditions of Holi that was described in the text?
Carving pumpkins
Exchanging gifts
Painting eggs
Throwing colored powders
Question 4
What is the name of the traditional sweet mentioned in the text?
Donuts
Gujiya
Cupcakes
Jalebi
Question 5
What is Holi a time for according to Aman s father?
Gift exchanging
Trick or treating
Egg hunting
Forgiving and renewing relationships
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Assign the ReadTheory pretest to determine students' reading levels.
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