Read the Prereading information on page 854, and discuss what you already know about “how-to” writing. How is this kind of writing usually organized? What is important to avoid in “how-to” writing? Discuss your answers to these questions with the class. The article you are about to read explains how to use a compass. You will be recording the steps in order of presentation as you read. Before you begin reading, look at the diagrams on pages 855 and 856 to familiarize yourself with the parts of the compass.
1. Follow along in the text as your teacher reads aloud the first page. Then, work as a class to list the steps the author provides so far. Be sure to list the steps in the order they appear in the text. Discuss with the class whether you understand the instruction so far. Explain how the diagram assists your understanding.
2. Read the remainder of the text on your own. Write down the steps needed to use a compass as presented in the text. Discuss with the class whether you feel like you could use a compass after reading this selection.
If you have difficulty understanding the text, try applying a new strategy. Work with a partner to read the selection. As your partner reads aloud, follow the steps with the compass provided by your teacher. When you have mastered the steps, read the text aloud so your partner can try using the compass.
When finished reading, review the steps you recorded. Then, write a paragraph evaluating Kjernsmo’s explanation of the process. Do you think he included all of the important steps? Did he leave anything out? Explain. When finished, share your evaluation with a partner.