BANG! POP! BOOM! Lesson Plan

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Academic Standards

 

Reading Objective:

Children will identify the steps it takes to make a fireworks show.

 

ELA Skills:

key details, vocabulary, writing, sequencing

 

Page 4 Skill:

nonfiction text features

 

Vocabulary:

patriotic, trailers, finale

 

CCSS:

RI.2.1 key details; RI.2.2 identify the main topic; RI.2.4 determine meanings of words; RI.2.5 use text features; RI.2.10 read informational texts; SL.2.1 collaborative conversations; SL.2.3 ask and answer questions; W.2.3 sequencing

 

Guided Reading Level: 

L

 

Lexile Level:

530L

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Provide students with some background on summer traditions.

Build background knowledge (10 min.)

Watch our video "Traditions." After children have finished watching the video, discuss the following question:

  • What is one of your family’s favorite traditions?

Set a purpose for reading (5 min.)

  • Pass out the issue, and discuss the cover. Have your students ever seen fireworks?
  • Next, read the As You Read prompt on page 2: “Think about the steps it takes to make a fireworks show.” Encourage children to think about this prompt as they read.

Read together (20 min.)

Pass out the Read and Think skill sheet. Use it to check comprehension as you read the issue together, pausing to ask the questions. 

Review vocabulary (3 min.)

Next, play the online vocabulary slideshow. This issue’s featured words are patriotic, trailers, and finale.

Assessment (15 min.)

Pass out the Reading Quiz to review key concepts from the issue and assess students’ proficiency on key nonfiction reading skills.

  • Students will practice listening for and identifying sight words with this fun and fast-paced “Sight Word Fireworks” game.

You can use our printable worksheets to focus on important ELA skills. Here’s how.

ELA Focus: Vocabulary (15 min.)

  • Use the Word Work skill sheet to deepen students’ understanding of the words patriotic, trailers, and finale.

Editor’s Pick: Writing (15 min.)

ELA Focus: Sequencing (15 min.)

  • Students will demonstrate their comprehension by using their own words to outline the steps of a fireworks show with the Fourth of July Fireworks! skill sheet.

 Here is a past issue you can use to extend your lesson on summer traditions:

  • “The Science of Sand Castles,” May/June 2018. In this issue, students will learn the sequencing and engineering concepts behind building strong sand castles.

You can find a higher-Lexile-level and a lower-Lexile-level version of the article online here:

  • Higher-Lexile level: 640L
  • Lower-Lexile level: 450L