Mini-Lesson

Objective: Students will identify the problem-solution pattern in a news story.

1. Tell students that stories, both real-life and fictional, often consist of problems and solutions. Identifying the problem-solution pattern can help readers understand a story.

2. Pass out the timeforkids.com news story, Fast Food Ban. Have students read the first paragraph. Ask: What is the problem? (People living in South Los Angeles have few dining options outside of fast-food restaurants. As a result, many are overweight.) As students read the article, have them identify the solution to the problem.

3. Have students share their findings. Ask: What makes many fast food menu items unhealthy? Why do so many people still eat fast food? Is it the government's job to help people make healthier dining choices? Do you think the City Council's plan will work?

Extend Learning: Have students create a poster persuading kids to eat more fruits and vegetables. Use the worksheet Making Healthy Choices to help them plan.