January 2002     Vol.3 Issue 1

Suggested lesson plan for "Steger kids sell Chinese calligraphy to aid Belize girl"

Readability: About sixth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: Steger School, China, Belize, Webster Groves, Kenisha Whyte, SSM Cardinal Glennon Hospital, Dennis Tullman, Anthony Thompson, Christopher Goers, Madeline Harding, Australia, Hanna Pey, Eiffel Tower, Rachel Holden, Kalynn Kochin, Tsoo! Tsoo!
Other words: calligraphy, plight, demonstration

BEFORE READING: There are nineteen items in the possible hard words list. Have the young reader read the list while you help out with any words or names if help is needed. If three or fewer require help for pronunciation, suggest that he or she read the article silently. If four to six words are problems, ask the child to read the article aloud to you. If seven or more are troublesome, you volunteer to read the article aloud. In all instances, note that questions will be asked afterward.

DURING READING: For the silent reader, offer to help with any words if asked. For the child reading aloud, supply any unrecognized words fairly quickly in order to keep the reading fluent. If you read aloud, model fluent, expressive oral reading.

AFTER READING: Use questions such as the following in order to check understanding and/or stimulate discussion.

1. Why were the sixth graders selling their calligraphy?
2. Why were the kids doing calligraphy in the first place?
3. Do you believe Christopher's story about the white spot behind a tiger's ear? If not, why?
4. Have you ever tried to use calligraphy? Do you think it would be fun to do? Why or why not?