Readability:  Fifth

Possible hard words: Proper names: Laticia Mayweather, Beaumont High School, Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital

Other words: transplant, veterinarian, considerable, residents

BEFORE READING: Assess the degree to which the reader might have difficulty with this article by asking him or her to read the words from the list above.  If the reader has problems with more than two of the words, suggest that you read the article aloud and the two of you discuss it afterward.  If the reader has trouble with two or fewer words, suggest that he or she read it aloud as you listen and be prepared to discuss it later. 

DURING READING: If you read it aloud, try to model expressive and fluent reading.  If the reader reads it aloud, help with any difficult words in order to keep the reading smooth and fluent.

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

1. About how long did it take before Laticia’s liver disease was finally diagnosed?
2. Why didn’t the residents in her neighborhood know Laticia before her operation?
3. What kinds of things can Laticia do now that she has had a liver transplant that she didn’t do before?
4. Do you know any classmates or neighbors that have serious health problems? Describe.