July 2003     Vol.4 Issue 7

Suggested lesson plan for "Family
tradition shapes History Day entry'

Possible hard words: Proper names: Andrew Austermann, St. Margaret of Scotland, James Thompson Callender, Sedition Act, President John Adams, William Saffire, Federalists, Thomas Jefferson
Other words: infamous, pamphleteer, bibliography, malicious, monarchy, alleged

BEFORE READING: In order to judge how the young reader will find the article, have him or her read the list of possible hard words. Provide help where needed and keep track of the times help is provided. If no more than three items require help, ask the young reader to read the article silently. If four to six items require help, ask the young reader to read the article aloud. If seven or more items require assistance, you volunteer to read the article aloud. In all three instances, point out that questions will be asked afterward.

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

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

1. What example did Justin set for Andrew?
2. Why was James Thompson Callender sentenced to prison and fined?
3. What kinds of things did Andrew do in the competition?
4. Would you be interested in participating in a history contest? Why or why not?