If you’re looking for an engaging and imaginative way to teach inference, text evidence, and character analysis, I’ve created a resource that will get your students talking, thinking, and collaborating—without even realizing how much academic work they’re doing.
Introducing: The Case of the Altered Invitation
This isn’t your average worksheet. It’s a fully immersive, interactive mystery set in a magical world where students must solve a case that blends fantasy with critical thinking.
What’s the Mystery?
The Grand Council of Realms is meeting for the first time in 100 years. Every realm was to send a chosen delegate, selected by an unbiased magical process. But something has gone wrong.
Queen Clarion of Pixie Hollow was supposed to attend—but when she opened her invitation scroll, it had been mysteriously altered. The name on the scroll now read Princess Rapunzel of Corona.
Rapunzel, surprised but honored, accepted the role and attended in Queen Clarion’s place.
Now the council is in chaos, and it’s up to your students to investigate.
What Students Will Do
Students become detectives as they:
- Analyze 8 character profiles with detailed motives, alibis, and clues.
- Review illustrated clue cards that suggest magical tampering.
- Work in teams to discuss evidence, make inferences, and support their theories.
- Complete a Scroll Security Report where they present their case.
- Reflect on motive, consequence, and fairness through an exit ticket activity.
This is a highly engaging activity that builds:
- Reading comprehension
- Collaboration
- Logical reasoning
- Empathy and ethical discussion
What’s Included in the Pack?
This product includes everything you need to run the mystery in your classroom:
- Story summary page to introduce the mystery
- Character cards
- Printable clue cards (with visuals available)
- Scroll Security Report worksheet
- Exit ticket and reflection page
- Teacher instructions
- Complete lesson plan
- Answer key and character breakdown
- Differentiation and accommodation suggestions
- Cover and promotional images
You can run this as a whole-class activity, small group rotation, or even turn it into a classroom-wide immersive experience.
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s standards-aligned (supports inference, citing evidence, character analysis).
- It’s low prep—just print and go, or enhance with props and visuals if you want to go big.
- It’s flexible—ideal for upper elementary or middle school.
- It’s memorable—your students won’t forget the day they cracked the case at the Grand Council!
Who Is It For?
This resource is ideal for:
- Grades 4–7
- Literacy centers
- Sub plans
- End-of-unit activities
- Enrichment and early finisher stations
- Book Week or theme days
Ready to Investigate?
You can find The Case of the Altered Invitation exclusively in my Teachers Pay Teachers store:
The Pottie Spot
Link
Let your students dive into a world of mystery, magic, and meaningful learning.
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