There should be a lot of predictions from children. Write their predictions on the board and see if they match up later. Explain that predictions cannot be wrong because they are only guesses. They might not be true, but a prediction is only what could possibly happen. Scientists use predictions all the time, and while they are sometimes not the reality, they are often a good start to understanding ideas. 

Have the children look at the cover of the book. Ask: What do you think this book will be about? 

Initiate a discussion about balloons and other things that are lighter than air. 

Building Background
Start a discussion with children about flight. Ask them to think about the things that can fly. Ask: Why is this book called Lighter Than Air? Are airplanes lighter than air, or only balloons? 

Discuss the ways in which birds, balloons, and airplanes are different. 

Reading Strategies
Discuss any reading strategies children can use to help them read.
Ask:

• How will the pictures help you read the words?
• What can you do when you come to a word you cannot read?
• What can you do if you don't understand a part you have just read?