1. Listen as your teacher reads the first page of the story aloud. Do you think you would fit in better with Laura or with Diane Goddard and her group? How does Laura feel about Diane Goddard? How do you think Diane feels about Laura? Make a chart in your notebook by drawing a line down the center of a piece of paper. On the left side write how the students in the story behave. On the right side, write similar situations you have seen at your school.
2. Read the rest of the story on your own. Keep making notes about how the students behave and connecting these actions to your own experiences.
If you are having trouble connecting to the characters, stop and answer the Guided Reading Questions. These questions will help you focus on Laura’s actions and feelings.