May 2002     Vol.3 Issue 5

Suggested lesson plan for "Her summer
involves work in mission control"

Readability: Above sixth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: Amirita Seehra, Houston, Mary Institute-Country Day School, Jacob Ohlemiller, David Caldwell
Other words: radioactive, microphone, isolation chamber, scholarships

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the names and words from the list, providing any help if needed. Suggest that the young reader read the article aloud to you and be ready to discuss it afterward.

DURING READING: Supply words as needed to keep the reading fluent.

AFTER READING: Use questions to check understanding and to promote some discussion of the article. Possible questions follow:

1. Do you think these opportunities are reserved for kids who are seen as exceptionally smart kids? What makes you think so?

2. In what four areas are programs available?

3. What opportunities are available once you become too old for the academies?

4. In which academy would you be most interested? Why?