Lesson Plans for SENDING MESSAGES Level L

Expand on the Reading

Writing Connection
Individual Writing:
Say: The last line in the text asks: How do you think messages will be sent in the future? Think about how we might send messages in the future. What will we use? How far will we be sending them? Write about this and illustrate the means we will use to send messages. 

Science Connection
Make an aluminum can phone using two aluminum cans (plastic cups also work) and some string, 10 to 25 feet long. Put a small hole in the bottom of each can or cup, and string the line from one to the other. Have children take turns holding the cups or cans. Make sure the string is pulled tight. Have each child take a turn speaking and listening into a can or cup. Try different volumes, pitches, tautness of string, etc. Go to the library and find books about sound. See if children can find an explanation for how the aluminum can phone works. 

Reading Independently
Invite children to reread the book independently or with a partner. They might then look for and read other books about some of the message-sending inventions in Sending Messages.

Home Connection
Invite children to take the book home to read with a family member. Have children send an email or mail a letter to the class. 

Assessment

  • Monitor children's responses in the Comprehending the Text section to assess how well they understand the text or story.
  • Monitor reading to see if children are using effective reading strategies.
  • Assess children's knowledge of comparing and contrasting.

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