July 2004     Vol.5 Issue 7

Suggested lesson plan for “Challenger
Center teaches kids about space”

Possible hard words: Proper names: Callie Mouser, Christa McAuliffe, Ryan Anani, John Shoep, Francisco Vasi, Savanna Anthony, Saint Sabina, Joe Kehrwald
Other words: exploration, astronaut, weightlessness, simulated, technology

BEFORE READING: To help the young reader deal with names and words used in the article, have him or her read the list of possible hard words. Provide help if needed. Afterward, ask the reader to read the article aloud to you and be ready to respond to some questions about it.

DURING READING: Provide help with any words that cause hesitations that might significantly impair fluency.

AFTER READING: Use questions to check comprehension and to stimulate discussion of the article. Examples follow.

1. What did Christa McAuliffe have to do with the Challenger Learning Center?
2. What were some of the experiences the campers had at the Center?
3. Why did three Florissant girls call their team “Discovery 37?”
4. Have you visited or are you interested in visiting the Challenger Learning Center? Why or why not?