May 2004     Vol.5 Issue 5

Suggested lesson plan for "Two kids
start family bike ride season"

Possible hard words: Proper names: Amanda and Alex Vonderheyden, St; Libory, Ill., Edwardsville, Georgena Terry, Lance Armstrong, Duluth, Minn., Lake Superior, Carlinville, Wildwood Middle School, Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, P-T Cruiser, Daimler-Chrysler, Les Wolk, Mercedes
Other words: atmosphere, tandem, overcast, cylinders

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the list of possible hard words. Provide help as needed but keep track of the number of items requiring help. If no more than three items cause problems, ask the young reader to read the article silently. If four to six items seem to be problems, ask the young reader to read the article aloud to you. If seven or more items cause trouble, you offer to read the article aloud. In all three instances, note that questions will be raised after the reading.

DURING READING: For the silent reader, offer up front to help with any words if asked. For the one reading aloud, supply any troublesome words fairly quickly in order to keep the reading fluent. If you read aloud, model smooth, fluent oral reading.

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

1. Why was the first ride of the season called the Spring Chicken's Ride?
2. What do you think a tandem bike is?
3. How did Alex get rewarded for one of his early car design drawings?
4. Would you like to participate in this kind of bicycle riding experiences? Why or why not?