Article, Writing Prompts
Maniac Magee Writing Prompt
- Grades: 3–5, 6–8
About this book
Grade Level Equivalent: 5.4
Lexile Measure: 820L
Guided Reading Level: W
Age: Age 11, Age 12, Age 9, Age 10, Age 13
Genre: Classics, Realistic Fiction
Subject: Family Life, Individuality, Prejudice and Tolerance Experiences
WRITING: What Makes a Friend?
Ask students why they think Amanda and Maniac became friends. (Possible: They shared an interest in books; had respect for one another.) Then point out that by the end of the story Maniac and Mars were developing a friendship. Ask: What do you think this friendship is based on? (Possible: They shared an interest in running; had respect for one another; began to understand one another.) Ask students to write a short essay describing what they consider the important qualities of friendship. Call on volunteers to read their essays to the class. Does everyone agree on what makes a friend?
- Subjects:Literature Appreciation, Descriptive Essay, Literary Response, Writing Prompts, Friends and Friendship
- Skills:Descriptive Writing


