The Black Stones
Realistic (fiction), 2,672 words, Level W (Grade 4)

Lesson Objectives

Reading Strategy	Visualize
Comprehension	Compare and Contrast
Grammar and Mechanics	Adverbs
Word Work	Figurative Language

Book Summary

The Black Stones tells the story of eleven-year-old twins who learn how to put aside their differences and get along with each other. Tala finds two obsidian stones and wants to learn more about how they were formed from a scientific viewpoint. Her brother Paco isn't interested in science and wants to find out if the stones are lucky charms or have magical properties. Their mother forces them to work together to find the answers. The twins are surprised to find out that they like working together. Illustrations support the text.

About the Lesson

Targeted Reading Strategy

• Visualize

Objectives

• Use the reading strategy of visualizing to understand text
• Compare and contrast characters
• Identify and understand the use of adverbs
• Identify and understand the use of two types of figurative language

Vocabulary

• Content words: bicker, eroding, fidgeted, obsidian, Pinal Apache, search engine, talismans, translucent, volcanic

Book Resources

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