Climbing Mountains: An Interview with Erik Weihenmayer
Interview (nonfiction), 2,346 words, Level W (Grade 4)

Lesson Objectives

Reading Strategy	Connect to prior knowledge
Comprehension	Sequence Events
Grammar and Mechanics	Verb Tense
Word Work	Content Vocabulary

Book Summary

Erik Weihenmayer lost his sight when he was thirteen. Despite his blindness, he went on to climb the Seven Summits of the world as an adult. Readers learn about the dedication and work required to prepare for a climb, the dangers faced by mountain climbers, and how a blind person “sees” the world. Erik also shares his passion for helping and inspiring others. Photographs, charts, and Web sources support the text.

About the Lesson

Targeted Reading Strategy

• Connect to prior knowledge

Objectives

• Use the reading strategy of making connections to prior knowledge to understand nonfiction text
• Sequence events to gain understanding
• Identify past- and present-tense verbs
• Recognize and use content vocabulary

Vocabulary

• Content words: avalanche, Braille, couloirs, crampons, crevasses, documentary, endurance, genetic, outcasts, sonar, terrain, vibration

Book Resources

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