Back to School Reading Comprehension for 3rd Grade doesn’t have to feel overwhelming—especially when you use engaging, low-prep activities that ease students into routines while reviewing key skills.

The start of the school year always brings a mix of excitement, nervous energy, and—let’s be honest—wiggly students who are still adjusting to classroom routines.

The challenge? Getting your class back into academic mode without overwhelming them (or yourself). That’s exactly why so many teachers look for engaging, low-prep reading activities that still target important skills.

That’s why I always reach for back-to-school reading comprehension activities that are simple to use, hit key skills, and still feel fun for students. One format that checks every box for August and September? Color by number reading comprehension.

Combining short, manageable reading passages with interactive coloring makes it easier to grab students’ attention while reinforcing reading strategies right from day one. It’s quiet, independent, and focused—and best of all, students actually enjoy doing it.

Why It’s Perfect for Back to School in 3rd Grade

In those early days of 3rd grade, students need structure—but they also need time to ease back into academics. These color-by-number worksheets hit that sweet spot.

Each page features:

• A short fiction or nonfiction passage
• Four focused comprehension questions
• A color-by-code picture students reveal as they answer

It feels like a game, but reinforces real reading strategies—like main idea, context clues, sequencing, and point of view. Students are learning… but they’re also calm, focused, and having fun.

P.S. If you need any back-to-school game ideas, make sure to read my blog post on Back to School Games to Review Rules & Procedures!

What’s Included in the Bundle

Looking for something that covers the most important reading strategies while keeping students engaged? The 3rd Grade Reading Comprehension Color-by-Number Bundle is designed with back to school in mind.

Designed specifically for 3rd grade readers, this resource includes multiple reading passages that align with essential comprehension strategies and back-to-school review skills.

Each worksheet includes:

• A short fiction or nonfiction reading passage
• Four age-appropriate comprehension questions
• A color-by-number section that reveals a picture as they answer

The bundle includes practice for:

• Main Idea
• Author’s Purpose
• Cause and Effect
• Character Traits
• Context Clues
• Compare and Contrast
• Sequencing
• Point of View
• Text Evidence
• Figurative Language
• Poems, Plays, and Stories
• Nonfiction Text Features
• Fact and Opinion
• Making Inferences

It’s ideal for reviewing 2nd grade skills while easing into 3rd grade expectations.

Easy Ways to Use it In August or September

These no-prep worksheets slide right into your classroom routines without adding to your workload. Here’s how you can make the most of them during those busy first few weeks:

Morning work during the first week
Set the tone for the day with something quiet, focused, and productive. Students come in, settle down, and get to work on a reading activity that feels fun—but still reviews key skills.

Literacy centers
Use these as an independent station while you work with small groups. The directions are simple, and the coloring component keeps students engaged and on task without needing constant support.

Fast finisher activities
Have early finishers who speed through everything? Keep a stack of these handy so students always have something meaningful—and quiet—to work on while others wrap up.

Independent reading time
Ease students back into focused reading by combining short passages with comprehension questions that are low-stress and manageable. The coloring piece gives them a clear goal without added pressure.

Homework that students won’t resist
Parents love it because it reinforces reading. Students love it because it’s not “just another worksheet.” The coloring turns it into something they’re proud to bring back the next day.

An Smart Start to Your Reading Routine

In the early weeks of school, you’re focused on establishing routines, building stamina, and helping students feel successful. These color by number comprehension worksheets make that process easier. Students stay engaged. You get meaningful practice. And everyone starts the year with a little more confidence.

Looking for a low-prep way to make reading fun this back-to-school season?

Click here to check out the 3rd Grade Reading Comprehension Color-by-Number Bundle.

It’s an easy win for August that sets the tone for a strong year ahead.

Want a FREEBIE?!

Grab this Color by Number Reading Comprehension Worksheet—perfect for the first week of school! It’s low prep, fun for students, and gives you a quick way to review key skills.

Just drop your name and email below, and I’ll send it straight to your inbox!