October 2001     Vol.2 Issue 10

Suggested lesson plan for "St. Louis
kids learn cooking as art"

Readability: Sixth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: Center of Contemporary Art, Chef Mike Johnson, Cafe Mira, Max Jewett, Thomas Lawrence, David Human, Garrett Finazzo, Jared Hampp, Alex Slavin
Other words: culinary, mustache, pepperoni, tortellini, oregano, mayonnaise

BEFORE READING: This is a relatively easy article. Have the young reader read all the names and words from the list, providing any help as needed. Then ask the child to read the article aloud to you. Indicate that a discussion will follow.

DURING READING: Provide help with words if needed to keep the reading fluent.

AFTER READING: Use questions such as the following to promote discussion.

1. How does a cooking class fit in with the usual lessons offered at COCA?
2. What were a couple of things the boys did to make their cooking "artistic"?
3. How did Chef Johnson start the class?
4. What use was made of Butterfinger candy bars?
5. Are you interested in cooking enough to take a class? Why or why not?