Elementary Library

reader to do that job well?

On a whiteboard or poster list student responses.

OBJECTIVE

Display and introduce the objective or the compelling question.

Say: Today, we are going to be readers and scientists.

DIRECT INSTRUCTION & PRACTICE Step 1: Read aloud

Read aloud The Three Little Pigs using best practices.

Say: What was the problem with the first two pig’s houses? What made the first house so strong? It’s your turn to be a scientist and design a strong house for a little pig (show pig) that can withstand being blown over by the big bad wolf (show hair dryer). You will need to draw a model of your house before the wolf comes, make a prediction about what will happen, and then draw the result of the experiment. Here are your building supplies… ” Step 2: Student Experiment Show students building supplies and explain all rules explicitly. Rules should include that the house they build has to fit the little pig inside, how to treat supplies and each other, all materials stay on the table, everyone stops and cleans up when it is time. Students may work individually or with partners or groups depending on amount of supplies. Circulate and support students as they work. Test each house with the hair dryer and have students record the results of the experiment.

Revisit the objective/compelling question. Ask students what makes a strong house or what they would do differently next time. Ask students why reading makes them better scientists.

Have students help clean up. READER’S ADVISORY, CIRCULATION PROCEDURES & DISMISSAL

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