Yuri's Yams

Story Summary
Yuri's dad loves yams, but he can only get them at certain times of the tear. So Yuri plans to grow them in his yard and surprise his dad. Mr. Yamamoto, Yuri's neighbor and a master gardener, helps Yuri with his special surprise.

Build Background
Ask students if they have ever eaten a yam. Invite them to describe what they know about yams, such as what they look like, what they taste like, and what foods are made with yams.

Preview the Book
Read the title and ask students to identify the sound at the beginning of the words Yuri's and yams. Explain that you will read a story aloud that has many words with the /y/ sound. Have students say the /y/ sound.

Write Yuri's and yams on the board. Read each word aloud to students. Have volunteers come to the board and take turns circling the letter that stands for the /y/ sound in the words.

Open the book and show students the illustrations on each page. Ask them to identify any words with the /y/ sound from the pictures. Invite students to predict what the story might be about.

During Reading
Read the story aloud with expression, emphasizing the /y/ sound in the words. Ask students to clap their hands each time they hear the /y/ sound.

Allow students to ask questions during reading. Pause occasionally to ask students to predict what might happen next.

After Reading
Reader Response
Have students explain whether the book is fiction or nonfiction. Invite them to summarize the story and/or describe their favorite part.

Comprehension
Ask specific questions that allow students to demonstrate their understanding of the book.