May 2005 Vol. 6 Issue 5

Suggested lesson plan for "Local kids prepare for The Muny's 2005 season"

Possible hard words:

Proper names: Tess Boyer, Glen Carbon, Ill., Nicholas Oliveri, Clayton, Laura Bush, Gershwin, Julliard, Cincinnati College of Art and Music

Other words: publicity, troupe, promotional, medley, soprano, auditions

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the 14 items from the list of possible hard words. Help out with any that require your assistance, but keep track of the number of the items that require help. If no more than three require assistance, ask the child to read the article silently. If four to six need help, ask the child to read the article aloud to you. If seven or more items require your help, you offer to read the article aloud to the child. In all three instances, point out that questions will be raised after the reading.

DURING READING: For the silent reader, simply point out that you will help out with any words or names if asked for help. For the one reading aloud, supply any words fairly promptly that seem to be impairing reading fluency. If you read aloud, model expressive, fluent oral reading.

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

1. What are the Muny kids required to do besides performing in the actual shows?
2. Does The Muny have much of a history of using young kids in its shows?
3. What kinds of backgrounds have Nicholas and Tess had in performing before audiences?
4. Would you like to perform in a Muny show? Why or why not?