Teaching the characteristics of fiction text can be challenging, especially when students easily lose interest in traditional worksheets. If you’re looking for a way to increase engagement, provide instant feedback, and save yourself grading time, then I have the perfect resource for you!
My Characteristics of Fiction Text Self-Checking Google Sheets Activity is designed to make fiction comprehension interactive and fun while reinforcing key concepts. Plus, it’s completely self-checking, so students know right away if they got the answer correct – without you having to grade a single response!

What Makes This Fiction Comprehension Activity a Must-Have?
1. Self-Checking for Instant Feedback
One of the biggest struggles with independent practice is that students don’t always know if they’re getting the answers right. That’s why this activity is designed to be self-checking – correct answers turn the cell green, and incorrect answers turn the cell pink, allowing students to self-correct in real time.
But the best part? Each correct answer also reveals an emoji clue for a fun game element, keeping students motivated to complete their work.
2. Differentiation Made Easy
Every class has a variety of learning abilities, and this resource is designed with that in mind. You get three different versions of the activity, so you can choose the best fit for each student:
✅ Fill in the Blank – Students recall and type their own answers. Answers must be spelled correctly.
✅ Fill in the Blank with Word Bank – Students select from a list of given words.
✅ Multiple-Choice Dropdown – Students choose their answer from a dropdown menu.
You don’t have to assign the same version to everyone! Some students may need more support, while others are ready for a challenge. This resource makes it easy to meet students where they are.
3. A No-Prep, No-Grading Solution
Let’s be real, teachers don’t have time to grade stacks of worksheets. This Google Sheets activity takes care of that for you! Once you assign it in Google Classroom or your LMS, students can work through the activity independently, checking their own answers along the way. No extra work for you!
How This Resource Works
I know that sometimes it’s easier to see how something works rather than just read about it, so I’ve put together a short video tutorial showing exactly how this activity engages students and provides instant feedback. Check it out below!
How to Use This Activity in Your Classroom
Not sure where to fit this into your lesson plans? Here are a few easy ways to use this digital resource:
✔️ Independent Practice – Perfect for reinforcing fiction comprehension skills at students’ own pace.
✔️ Alternative Instruction Days – A great option for virtual learning or digital assignments.
✔️ Sub Plans – An easy-to-assign, self-running activity that keeps students engaged when you’re out.
Pair It with These Fiction Anchor Charts & Notebook Pages!
If you want to give your students even more support with the characteristics of fiction text, I recommend using this Google Sheets activity alongside my All About Fiction Anchor Charts & Interactive Notebook Pages.
These print-and-go resources help students visualize key fiction concepts, making it easier for them to understand and remember the material. Use the anchor charts to introduce the topic, the notebook pages for an interactive option, and the Google Sheets activity for self-checking review!
Ready to Try This Engaging, Self-Checking Activity?
If you’re looking for a no-prep, engaging, and effective way to reinforce fiction comprehension, this Self-Checking Google Sheets Activity is exactly what you need. Your students will love the instant feedback and game-style challenge, and you’ll love how easy it is to assign and differentiate!
