Read Prereading page 367 on your own. Then, discuss with the class tall tales with which you are familiar. What elements do these stories share? Share any prior knowledge you have of Pecos Bill or other heroes of tall tales. Then, create a cluster chart with the center circle labeled “The Amazing Adventures of Pecos Bill.” As you read, you will record his adventures and their results in the outlying circles of the chart.
1. Follow along in your textbook as your teacher reads aloud the first seven paragraphs, ending with the words “to let the smell blow off him.” When your teacher is finished reading, discuss with the class the unusual things that Bill has done or have happened to him. Then, write them in your chart.
2. Continue reading the remainder of the story on your own. Stop at the end of each page to record Bill’s adventures in your chart.
If you have difficulty remembering all of Bill’s adventures that take place, read shorter sections at a time. Instead of stopping at the end of each page, stop immediately after an adventure is described. Then, jot down the adventure in your chart. Continue applying this strategy as you complete the selection.
Review your chart, and answer the following questions in a paragraph: How are Bill’s adventures exaggerated? Why do you think the author included such exaggeration? Then, meet with two or three other students and compare your charts and discuss your paragraphs.