Takehito's Tango
Realistic (fiction), 2,028 words, Level X (Grade 5)

Lesson Objectives

Reading Strategy	Visualize
Comprehension	Analyze Character
Grammar and Mechanics	Dash
Word Work	Synonyms and Antonyms

Book Summary

Takehito's Tango tells the story of a young Japanese boy named Takehito and his desire to make friends and fit in at his new school. His teacher pushes him to participate in the talent show, which sets him on a mission to uncover a hidden talent. With the help of young Melinda, he works hard to learn a dance called the tango. He picks up the steps quickly and even begins to enjoy the attention of his admirers. On the day of the talent show, he takes the stage, and Takehito realizes that he has already made at least one friend--Melinda. Illustrations and diagrams support the text.

About the Lesson

Targeted Reading Strategy

• Visualize

Objectives

• Use the reading strategy of visualizing to understand text
• Analyze characters in the text
• Understand the use of a dash as punctuation
• Recognize and use synonyms and antonyms; use a thesaurus to identify synonyms and antonyms

Vocabulary

• Content words: audience, awkward, clumsily, entranced, deliberate, footwork, performance, rhythm, spectators, tango, traditionally

Book Resources

Formats Single-Sided Book Single-Sided Color Cover Double-Sided Book Double-Sided Color Cover Lesson Resources Lesson Plan Worksheets Discussion Cards Comprehension Quiz Level X Answer Sheet