Read the author biography on page 510 and the Prereading information on page 503. Then, draw a three-column prediction chart with the following headings: Clues, Predictions, Adjustments. Jot down clues about what the story will be about in the first column. In the second column of your chart, make predictions about what will happen in the story. You will revisit this prediction as you read and make adjustments to it as necessary.
1. Follow along in the text as your teacher reads the first page aloud. When your teacher finishes, jot down clues from the text. What do you think Jimmy will do after he leaves prison? Why do you think so? Write down your answer in the Prediction column of your chart.
2. Continue reading the remainder of the story on your own. Stop at the end of each page to record clues, make predictions, and verify or adjust previous predictions. When you finish the story, revisit all of your predictions and make final adjustments and verifications.
If you have difficulty applying the reading strategy, try reading shorter sections. You might stop at the end of each column to fill in your chart. Or stop when you encounter information that verifies or disproves a prediction, and make adjustments to your chart. Try recording clues as you encounter them in the text instead of waiting until the end of each page.
Share your prediction chart with two or three other students. Discuss how you arrived at your predictions given the clues from the text. Did the story’s ending surprise you?