Before Reading
Preview
Preview the information about plot on page 30. Pay attention to the description of each plot element. Then, create a plot pyramid like the one on page 30.
During Reading
Gather Information
1. Follow along in the text as your teacher reads the first four paragraphs of "American History" aloud. Briefly summarize the exposition on your chart. What do you learn about the tone, mood, characters, and setting?
2. Read the rest of the story on your own. Fill in your chart with information about other plot elements as you read.
Fix-Up Idea: Read Short Sections
With two or three of your classmates, read the story a page at a time. When you finish each page, discuss what you have read. Does the paragraph advance the plot of the story? How? If not, does it add to a part of the plot that has already begun?
After Reading
Share Information
Share your plot chart. Discuss differences in your charts, and go back to the story to confirm or deny the details in everyone's charts. What is the central conflict of this story? How is the conflict finally resolved?