With a partner or in a small group, read aloud the Prereading information on page 383 and the note in italics on page 385. Then skim the story, looking at the pictures on pages 384, 388, and 393. What do you think the story will be about, and how do you think the pictures will relate to the story?
1. Have one person in your group read the first three paragraphs of the story aloud. Close your eyes and visualize what Bilbo is doing. To help you create strong images for this story as you read, have another volunteer reread the same three paragraphs. Again visualize what Bilbo is doing, adding details to the mind movie you are creating.
2. Read the rest of the story silently in short sections, visualizing story events as you read. After everyone in your group has read each section, go back and answer the Guided Reading Questions in that section. If you cannot answer a question, look for the answer in the text near the question. Continue reading, visualizing, and answering questions until you reach the end of the story.
If you are having difficulty visualizing the story, tackle the unfamiliar vocabulary and read the Guided Reading Questions with a partner. Stop whenever you come to a vocabulary word or a Guided Reading Question and discuss each. After you discuss a vocabulary word or a Guided Reading Question associated with a paragraph, you may have to reread the paragraph. Take your time and have fun figuring out what has happened to Bilbo.
In your group, discuss what happened to Bilbo Baggins. Then choose some scenes you would like to illustrate. Go back to the story to find details that will help you make your illustrations. Then present your illustrations to the class.