September 2002     Vol.3 Issue 9

Suggested lesson plan for "Which wild
plants in Missouri make good food?"

Readability: Fourth grade reading level

Possible hard words: Proper names: "Eleven Commandments of Wild Edible Foods", Keri Lanning, Missouri Department of Conservation, Soulard, Jerusalem artichokes
Other words: naturalist, bulrushes, rootstocks, tubers, chickweeds, thistles, amaranth, watercress, vitamins, aromatic, distinctive, persimmon, dandelion, graduated, experimentation, poisonous, uncontaminated

BEFORE READING: Have the young reader read the list of possible hard words, while you provide help as needed. Of the twenty-two items on the list, if no more than three cause difficulty for the young reader, ask him or her to read the article silently. If four to six terms cause problems, suggest that the young reader read the article aloud to you. If there is a problem with seven or more terms, you volunteer to read the article aloud. In all instances, point out that questions will be raised afterward.

DURING READING: For the child reading silently, offer to help with any words if asked. For the child reading aloud, supply any words fairly promptly that seem to be impairing fluency. If you read aloud, model expressive and fluent oral reading.

AFTER READING: To check understanding and promote discussion, use questions such as the following.

1. Why is it important to follow the "Eleven Commandments of Wild Edible Foods"?

2. Where should you limit your search for edible plants?

3. Why is it better to pick the potato-like plants in the fall?

4. Which of the suggestions for eating plants would you be most willing to try? Why?