February 2002     Vol.3 Issue 2

Suggested lesson plan for "Fifth grader
plays in Symphony Music School concert"

Readability: Sixth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: Wilbur Song, Webster University Symphony Music School String Orchestra concert, Mikhail Lobko, Russian, Shanghai, Ameren UE Bright Star, Melanie Murphy, Keming Song
Other words: "one-quarter sized," stage presence, demonstration, prospective, erhu, entomology

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the names and words from the hard words list. Provide help where needed. If fewer than three items cause a problem, suggest the young reader read the article silently. If four to six words are troublesome, ask the young reader to read the article aloud. If seven or more words are missed, you volunteer to read the article aloud to the child. Indicate questions will be raised and a discussion conducted after the story is read.

DURING READING: For the silent reader, indicate that you will help with words if asked. For the child reading aloud, supply troublesome words quickly to keep the oral reading smooth and fluent. If you read aloud, model smooth and fluent oral reading.

AFTER READING: Use questions such as the following to check comprehension and promote a discussion of the article.

1. How do the violins Wilbur plays reflect his growing up?
2. What was special about third grade in terms of Wilbur's music successes?
3. Besides his interest in music, what is Wilbur's other major interest?
4. Have you tried playing a musical instrument? Describe your involvement in music.