Readability:  About sixth grade level

Possible hard words: Proper names: Jan Syrigos, Missouri Department of Conservation, Habitat, Ralph Duren, Sedalia, Belize
Other words: naturalist, premiere, intersection, original, alligators, lizards, nominated

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the list of names and words, providing help where needed.  Suggest the young reader read the article aloud and be ready to discuss it.

DURING READING: Provide any words needed to keep the reading fluent.

AFTER READING: Use question such as the following to promote discussion of the article.

1. Why is Jan Syrigos an unusual naturalist for the Missouri Department of Conservation?
2. What are some of the songs on the video, “Critter Rock?”
3. What was Syrigos’ purpose in creating the songs for “Critter Rock?’
4. Do you thing Naturalist Syrigos is accomplishing her purpose? Why or why not?