Gay Miller
19,838 Followers
Blowing Rock, North Carolina, United States
About the store
Welcome! I’m Gay Miller, creator of Book Units Teacher, where I help upper elementary teachers save time and teach with confidence. My ready-to-use lessons and novel studies make planning easy and keep students engaged with activities they actually enjoy.
With over 30 years of experience in the classroom, I understand the challenges of balancing standards, creativity, and time. That’s why my resources focus on building reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills through hands-on, meaningful learning.
You’ll find novel studies, animated short film lessons, and vocabulary games, each designed to simplify your prep and help you feel prepared for the week ahead.
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Holes Novel Study Vocabulary Reading Activities Writing Grade 5-7 Book Unit
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Holes by Louis Sachar. This novel study is perfect for grades 5–7 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Stanley Yelnats’s perseverance in the face of injustice and the interwoven stories of friendship, fate, and family legacy. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teac
5th - 7th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing-Essays
CCSS
RL.5.1
, RL.5.2
, RL.5.3
+44
Also included in: Hatchet, The Giver, Holes, Refugee, Restart, & The Cay Novel Study Units
Hatchet Novel Study Figurative Language, Descriptive Writing & Comprehension
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. This novel study is perfect for grades 4-6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Brian’s determination and self-reliance as he navigates isolation and survival in the wilderness. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teaching style, saving you
5th - 7th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.5.1
, RL.5.2
, RL.5.3
+34
Also included in: Hatchet, The Giver, Holes, Refugee, Restart, & The Cay Novel Study Units
Restart Novel Study | Grades 5–6 Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Writing Unit
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Restart by Gordon Korman. This novel study is perfect for grades 5-7 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Chase’s journey of self-discovery and redemption as he learns what it means to change and make amends. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teaching style, savin
5th - 7th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.5.1
, RL.5.2
, RL.5.4
+45
Also included in: Hatchet, The Giver, Holes, Refugee, Restart, & The Cay Novel Study Units
Number the Stars Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Lessons
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Annemarie’s quiet courage and the powerful themes of bravery, friendship, and standing up for what’s right during wartime. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+38
The City of Ember Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Skills
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Lina and Doon’s curiosity and bravery as they uncover secrets and fight for hope in a darkening world. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teaching st
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+29
The Lightning Thief Novel Study - Percy Jackson - Reading Comprehension Writing
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1 by Rick Riordan. This novel study is perfect for grades 5–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Percy Jackson’s humor and inner strength as he faces the challenges of being a hero in a world of mythology. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCEST
5th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+35
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Novel Study Digital & Print - Comprehension
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with the unforgettable Herdman family and the story’s themes of community, acceptance, and unexpected kindness. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapt
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Reading, Vocabulary
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+13
Wonder Novel Study Digital & Print - Vocabulary, Comprehension, Activities
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Auggie’s bravery and kindness as he faces school challenges and teaches others to choose empathy and inclusion. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teaching style
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+43
Bridge to Terabithia Novel Study DIGITAL + PRINTABLE Vocabulary, Comprehension
Go beyond basic comprehension with this comprehensive Bridge to Terabithia Novel Study that teaches reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar, and targeted language arts skills using mentor sentences and examples from the novel. Designed for upper elementary students (grades 4–6), this all-in-one unit helps students explore how authors use language to convey theme, emotion, and meaning, especially as they navigate topics of friendship, imagination, loss, and personal growth. All lessons are align
4th - 6th
Literature, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+28
The Wild Robot Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Expository Writing
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with The Wild Robot by Peter Brown. This novel study is perfect for 4th graders and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Roz the robot’s surprising emotional growth and the novel’s powerful themes of survival, nature, and belonging. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teachi
4th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing-Essays
CCSS
RL.3.1
, RL.3.2
, RL.3.3
+35
Esperanza Rising Novel Study | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Writing Unit
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Esperanza’s emotional growth and the themes of inner strength, hope, and adapting to a new life after loss. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teachi
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+27
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Novel Study Digital & Print - Comprehension
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with the Pevensie siblings’ bravery and loyalty as they explore Narnia and battle the forces of evil and eternal winter. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+28
Tuck Everlasting Novel Study | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Writing Unit
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt. This novel study is perfect for grades 5–7 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Winnie’s curiosity and the thought-provoking themes of immortality, choice, and the natural cycle of life. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teachi
5th - 7th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+27
The One and Only Ivan Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension & Writing
The One and Only Ivan is a powerful story of friendship and freedom that will captivate students. With vocabulary practice, comprehension quizzes, and character analysis, students will engage with animal rights, loyalty, and hope themes. This novel study draws them into Ivan’s world, helping them build empathy while developing essential language arts skills. ❤️ Flexible Teaching and Time-Saving OptionsThis comprehensive The One and Only Ivan Novel Study saves you valuable planning time and ad
3rd - 5th
Literature, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.3.1
, RL.3.2
, RL.3.3
+23
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading, Writing
This novel study for The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane guides students through Edward’s emotional story, offering vocabulary exercises, comprehension questions, constructed response writing prompts with organizers for planning, and language arts lessons. Teaching Edward’s transformation becomes an impactful and engaging experience for your students with this unit. ❤️ Flexible Teaching and Time-Saving OptionsThis comprehensive The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane Novel Study saves yo
4th - 5th
Reading, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS, TEKS
RL.3.1
, RL.3.2
, RL.3.3
+56
Where the Red Fern Grows Novel Study Digital & Print - Comprehension, Activities
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Where the Red Fern Grows by Woodrow Wilson Rawls. This novel study is perfect for grades 4–6 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Billy’s love for his dogs and the touching themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the bittersweet bond between humans and animals. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis compr
4th - 6th
Novel Studies, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.4.1
, RL.4.2
, RL.4.3
+27
Refugee by Alan Gratz Novel Study | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Writing
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Refugee by Alan Gratz. This novel study is perfect for grades 5–7 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud’s gripping stories of courage and sacrifice as they flee danger in search of safety and freedom. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your tea
5th - 7th
Novel Studies, Reading, Writing
CCSS, TEKS
RL.5.1
, RL.5.2
, RL.5.3
+49
Also included in: Hatchet, The Giver, Holes, Refugee, Restart, & The Cay Novel Study Units
![Preview of The Giver Novel Study DIGITAL + PRINT [Lowry] Vocabulary, Comprehension, Writing](https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/cdn-cgi/image/format=avif,quality=70,width=525,height=525,onerror=redirect/thumbitem/A-Resource-Guide-to-Use-with-The-Giver-1776185629/750f-274107-1.jpg)
The Giver Novel Study DIGITAL + PRINT [Lowry] Vocabulary, Comprehension, Writing
In this novel study for The Giver, students will explore complex themes like freedom, individuality, and societal control while practicing essential reading comprehension and writing skills. With vocabulary practice, comprehension quizzes, and reflective writing prompts, this unit offers an all-in-one learning experience that deepens their understanding of the novel. It’s designed to make teaching The Giver both impactful and engaging for your students. ❤️ Flexible Teaching and Time-Saving Op
6th - 8th
Literature, Vocabulary, Writing
CCSS
RL.6.1
, RL.6.2
, RL.6.3
+33
Also included in: Hatchet, The Giver, Holes, Refugee, Restart, & The Cay Novel Study Units
Because of Winn-Dixie Novel Study Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing
Teach literary elements, theme, and reading comprehension with Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. This novel study is perfect for grades 3–5 and includes vocabulary activities, comprehension questions, writing tasks, and skills practice aligned with Common Core standards. Students will connect with Opal’s heartfelt journey of friendship and healing through adopting a stray dog. ❤️ FLEXIBLE & TIME-SAVING TEACHING RESOURCESThis comprehensive unit adapts to your teaching style, saving you v
3rd - 5th
Grammar, Novel Studies, Vocabulary
CCSS
RL.3.1
, RL.3.2
, RL.3.3
+24
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Novel Study Reading Comprehension & Grammar
Are you looking for an all‑in‑one print + digital novel study for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? This comprehensive unit includes vocabulary, comprehension questions, constructed-response questions, and grammar lessons aligned with the Common Core Standards for grades 4–5. ❤️ Flexible Teaching and Time-Saving OptionsThis comprehensive Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Novel Study saves you valuable planning time and adapts to your teaching style. With printable and digital resources compa
4th - 5th
Grammar, Literature, Vocabulary
CCSS
RL.3.1
, RL.3.2
, RL.3.3
+41
Showing 1-20 of 416 results
About the store
Experience
Welcome! I’m Gay Miller, creator of Book Units Teacher, where I help upper elementary teachers save time and teach with confidence. My ready-to-use lessons and novel studies make planning easy and keep students engaged with activities they actually enjoy.
With over 30 years of experience in the classroom, I understand the challenges of balancing standards, creativity, and time. That’s why my resources focus on building reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills through hands-on, meaningful learning.
You’ll find novel studies, animated short film lessons, and vocabulary games, each designed to simplify your prep and help you feel prepared for the week ahead.
Teaching style
My teaching style: Active learning all the way! I love using graphic organizers, games, and video lessons to make even tricky concepts click. When students are part of the process, learning becomes joyful and memorable.
Awards & shining teacher moments
🏅 Johnson County Teacher of the Year and Mountain City Elementary Teacher of the Year (2011, 2005)
🌹 Order of the Rose Award, Delta Kappa Gamma (2021)
💻 Classroom Connect’s Internet Educator of the Year Regional Winner (2003)
My own education history
I hold a Bachelor’s in Special Education, a Master’s in Learning Disabilities, and Gifted Certification, with more than 34 years teaching in upper elementary classrooms. My experience in inclusion and team-teaching settings shaped my passion for creating materials that reach all learners.
Additional biographical information
I’ve helped teachers implement digital learning tools, coached on curriculum design, and continue to share strategies that make teaching both easier and more rewarding. My mission is simple — to help you feel confident, prepared, and excited to teach each day.
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