Book excerpt: This collection of passages for Grade 5 provides students with close reading practice. Are you a person who likes to go fast, or someone who finds speed a little scary? Either way, sit back and enjoy the ride as you read these excerpts about the wild ups and downs of roller coasters and the thrills of bike racing. Or imagine sprinting short distances at top speed, using your own muscle power. How do your muscles help you jump higher and throw farther? It's full speed ahead as you read to answer these questions. Also included are places to pause and reflect on the text and opportunities to respond to the reading.