Mini-Lesson

Reading with a Purpose

Mini-Lesson: Grades 4-6

Objective: Students will read with a purpose.

1. Pass out the timeforkids.com article, Meet the Press Secretary. Have students read the introduction. Then ask: What does the press secretary do?

Explain that it is helpful to read with a purpose. Doing so can help you to focus and remember information. For example, when reading an interview with Secretary Gibbs, ask yourself: Would I want his job?

2. Ask students to create a pro-con T-chart. As students read the article, have them fill the chart with pros and cons of the job.

3. Have students share their thoughts. Ask: What traits and experiences would make someone a good press secretary?

Extend Learning: Challenge students to create a job description for the press secretary. To help get them started, have them complete the worksheet Who Wants to Be President?.