Escape Room

​Can you escape????

By Sydney Buice

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

​Welcome, Literary Detectives!

The famous author Amelia Wordsworth has vanished, leaving behind an incomplete manuscript that could change literature forever. She's hidden clues throughout her study that will lead you to her final chapter. You must prove your mastery of language arts to unlock each section of her study and discover the truth. You need 80% to escape!

​The Grammar Gateway

You enter Amelia's study. Her desk is locked, but there's a note: "Only those who understand the building blocks of language may proceed."

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

The MYSTERIOUS author left suddenly.

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

The mysterious author left SUDDENLY.

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

She WROTE three novels behind the bookshelf.

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

She wrote three novels BEHIND the bookshelf.

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

WOW! That plot twist was incredible.

Open Ended

Identify the part of speech for each CAPITALIZED word:

Wow! That plot twist was INCREDIBLE.

Open Ended

Fix the capitalization errors in this excerpt from Amelia's journal (identify how many errors):

"last tuesday, i met with professor jenkins at riverside middle school. He said, 'ms. Wordsworth, your book the hidden truth should win the newbery medal!' i told him i'd dedicate it to my mother who lives in the south."

​🔓 Unlock Message:
"The desk drawer creaks open, revealing a leather journal..."

​The Story Structure Sanctuary

Inside the journal, you find a short story Amelia wrote. Analyze it to unlock the next door.

Story Excerpt:

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify the Exposition of this story.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify the Rising Action of this story.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify the Climax of this story.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify the Resolution of this story.

Multiple Choice

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

What is the theme of this story?

• Lighthouses are scary places.

• The truth can be complicated, and sometimes we may choose between honesty and protecting those we love.

• Detectives solve mysteries.

• Grandmothers keep secrets.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify one simile in the story.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify one metaphor in the story.

Open Ended

"Detective Sarah Chen had always feared the old lighthouse. As a child, she'd heard whispers about its keeper who disappeared one stormy night. Now, twenty years later, she climbed the winding stairs, her flashlight cutting through the darkness like a knife through butter. Her heart pounded like a drum in her chest. At the top, she found what she'd been searching for: a photograph of her own grandmother standing beside the missing keeper, both smiling. The truth crashed over her like a wave—her grandmother had been keeping this secret her entire life. Sarah had to decide: expose the truth and hurt her family, or let the mystery remain buried forever. She took a deep breath and made her choice."

Identify one example of imagery in the story.

​🔓 Unlock Message:
"You hear a click. The bookshelf swings open to reveal a hidden room..."

​The Dialogue Din

You find fragments of Amelia's manuscript. The dialogue is incorrectly punctuated! Fix it to restore the story.

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

Open Ended

Rewrite this passage with correct dialogue punctuation and capitalization:

the student asked can you help me with my essay Mrs. Wordsworth

of course replied the teacher what's your topic

i'm writing about courage said the student but I don't know how to start

well said Mrs. Wordsworth let me tell you a story about a time I had to be brave

​🔓 Unlock Message:
"The manuscript pages glow, revealing invisible ink..."

​The Argument Arena

Amelia's final chapter is an argument essay. Help complete it using proper argumentative elements.

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

Open Ended

Middle schools should allow students to choose their own reading books rather than requiring everyone to read the same titles. _______________

According to a 2023 study by the National Reading Council, students who selected their own books showed 40% higher engagement and comprehension scores than those assigned books.

This happens because when students pick books that match their interests, they're naturally more motivated to read. A student passionate about sports will connect more deeply with a sports biography than a book they're forced to read about a topic that doesn't interest them.

Some educators argue that a required reading list ensures all students experience classic literature and share common knowledge.

However, this counterargument fails to consider that students can still be exposed to various genres and important themes through guided choice. Teachers can provide curated lists of high-quality books across different categories, ensuring students encounter diverse perspectives while still exercising autonomy.

What is the central idea of this essay in ONE sentence?

Open Ended

Middle schools should allow students to choose their own reading books rather than requiring everyone to read the same titles. _______________

According to a 2023 study by the National Reading Council, students who selected their own books showed 40% higher engagement and comprehension scores than those assigned books.

This happens because when students pick books that match their interests, they're naturally more motivated to read. A student passionate about sports will connect more deeply with a sports biography than a book they're forced to read about a topic that doesn't interest them.

Some educators argue that a required reading list ensures all students experience classic literature and share common knowledge.

However, this counterargument fails to consider that students can still be exposed to various genres and important themes through guided choice. Teachers can provide curated lists of high-quality books across different categories, ensuring students encounter diverse perspectives while still exercising autonomy.

Write a essay's claim in your own words.

Open Ended

Middle schools should allow students to choose their own reading books rather than requiring everyone to read the same titles. _______________

According to a 2023 study by the National Reading Council, students who selected their own books showed 40% higher engagement and comprehension scores than those assigned books.

This happens because when students pick books that match their interests, they're naturally more motivated to read. A student passionate about sports will connect more deeply with a sports biography than a book they're forced to read about a topic that doesn't interest them.

Some educators argue that a required reading list ensures all students experience classic literature and share common knowledge.

However, this counterargument fails to consider that students can still be exposed to various genres and important themes through guided choice. Teachers can provide curated lists of high-quality books across different categories, ensuring students encounter diverse perspectives while still exercising autonomy.

The essay includes evidence from a study. What is one additional piece of evidence that could strengthen this argument?

Open Ended

Middle schools should allow students to choose their own reading books rather than requiring everyone to read the same titles. _______________

According to a 2023 study by the National Reading Council, students who selected their own books showed 40% higher engagement and comprehension scores than those assigned books.

This happens because when students pick books that match their interests, they're naturally more motivated to read. A student passionate about sports will connect more deeply with a sports biography than a book they're forced to read about a topic that doesn't interest them.

Some educators argue that a required reading list ensures all students experience classic literature and share common knowledge.

However, this counterargument fails to consider that students can still be exposed to various genres and important themes through guided choice. Teachers can provide curated lists of high-quality books across different categories, ensuring students encounter diverse perspectives while still exercising autonomy.

Why does student choice in reading lead to better outcomes? Explain the reasoning

Open Ended

Middle schools should allow students to choose their own reading books rather than requiring everyone to read the same titles. _______________

According to a 2023 study by the National Reading Council, students who selected their own books showed 40% higher engagement and comprehension scores than those assigned books.

This happens because when students pick books that match their interests, they're naturally more motivated to read. A student passionate about sports will connect more deeply with a sports biography than a book they're forced to read about a topic that doesn't interest them.

Some educators argue that a required reading list ensures all students experience classic literature and share common knowledge.

However, this counterargument fails to consider that students can still be exposed to various genres and important themes through guided choice. Teachers can provide curated lists of high-quality books across different categories, ensuring students encounter diverse perspectives while still exercising autonomy.

What is the counterargument presented in the essay?

​🔓 Unlock Message:
"The final lock glows. You're almost there..."

​The Audience and purpose portal

You find Amelia's final letter. She wrote different versions for different audiences. Analyze them to escape!

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

Version One is written for what audience?

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

Version Two is written for what audience?

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

Version Three is written for what audience?

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

What words/phrases in Version 1 show it's for younger children? (Name 2)

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

What words/phrases in Version 2 show it's for scholars? (Name 2)

Open Ended

Version 1: "Hey kids! Books are super cool and fun! You should totally read more because reading is awesome and makes you smart! Plus, you can imagine really neat stuff!"

Version 2: "Distinguished colleagues, empirical research demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between sustained literary engagement and enhanced cognitive development. Furthermore, longitudinal studies indicate measurable improvements in analytical reasoning among participants who maintain consistent reading practices."

Version 3: "Reading regularly can improve your grades, expand your vocabulary, and help you understand different perspectives. Students who read for just 20 minutes daily often see improvements in all their classes, not just English."

Even though the audience changes, what is the SAME central idea in all three versions?

​The Master Key

You've collected enough knowledge to open Amelia's safe. Inside is her final message:

"Congratulations, Literary Detective! You've proven you understand the tools every writer needs: the structure of language, the power of story, the art of argument, and the importance of knowing your audience. You are now ready to tell your own stories. The pen is yours. —Amelia Wordsworth"

The Lost Author's Legacy: An ELA Escape Room