Readability: Seventh grade

Possible hard words: Proper names: Doug Jacobs, Lacey Jacobs, Zack Jacobs, Rebecca Mantia, Dave Klostermeier Other words: demonstrations, pioneer artifacts, specialties, stilts, mortar and pestle, government chambers, site administrator

BEFORE READING: Tell the reader that this is about a demonstration of how families worked and played in the 1820’s.  Have him or her read the list of words from above, helping out with any that cause a problem. Then ask the child to read the article aloud to you.  Tell them to be ready to discuss it afterward.

DURING READING: Help out with any words that cause the reader to pause or are mispronounced. Be ready to explain any concepts that might not be understood.  Examples might be “pioneer artifacts” or “government chambers.”

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

1. What are the date, the time and the cost of the St. Charles Riverfront event?
2. What are some of the “hands-on” things that visiting kids might be asked to do at the Festival?
3. Describe the homemade hammer?
4. Why did trappers come to St. Charles in the old days?
5. Would you like to be in costume and be a demonstrator at a festival such as this one?  Describe.