January 2003     Vol.4 Issue 1

Suggested lesson plan for "Help birds find
winter food. Many are sick and weak."

Readability: Fifth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: West Nile Virus, Judy Rowe, Creve Coeur, Wild Bird Sanctuary, Meramec River, Walter Crawford, Missouri Conservationist
Other words: urgency, edible, predators, immunity

BEFORE READING: This is a fairly easy article in terms of hard words. Have the child read the words from the list, providing any help as needed. Then suggest the young reader read it aloud to you. Explain that questions will be asked and the article will be discussed afterward.

DURING READING: Once again, help out with any words causing difficulty. Try to help the child read with reasonable fluency.

AFTER READING: Use questions such as those that follow to check understanding and promote a discussion.

1. What happened to the bird population last summer in this area?
2. Why is it especially important to feed the birds this winter?
3. Describe one or two types of home made bird feeders?
4. Why do birds need to take baths, even in winter?
5. Have you maintained any kind of bird feeder at your home? Why or why not?