October 2003     Vol.4 Issue 10

Suggested lesson plan for
"Teen learns to write own music"

Possible hard words: Proper names: Kate Nolan, Webster University's Community Music School, Kids Alive Summer Composition Initiative, Sperreng Middle School, Lindbergh School District, Fiddlers, West Lafayette, In., Science Olympiad, Julie Walbridge
Other words: composing, original, ensemble, souvenir, guitar, saxophone, cello, violin, piano

BEFORE READING: In order to get an idea of how difficult the article might be for a young reader, have him or her read the names and words from the possible hard words list. Help where help is needed but keep count of words that require such help. If no more than three terms call for help, ask the child to read the article silently. If four to six terms call for help, ask the child to read the article aloud to you. If as many as seven items need help, you offer to read the article aloud to the young reader. In all instances, note that questions will be raised after the reading.

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

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

1. How long was the summer music camp and what were the kids asked to do?
2. What instruments does Kate play?
3. What was the souvenir that each kid took home?
4. Would you have any interest in studying music composition? Why or why not?