Before Reading
Identify Purpose
Read the About the Selection paragraphs to focus on when and why the speech was given. Keep this in mind as you read the selection. Read also the definition of rhetorical question. As you read, pay attention to rhetorical questions and consider how they relate to Henry's purpose.
During Reading
Read with Purpose in Mind
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first two paragraphs of the selection aloud. Identify rhetorical questions that Henry asks and main points he makes.
2. Continue reading on your own. As you read, keep Henry's purpose in mind and continue to mark rhetorical questions and important points.
Fix-Up Idea: Unlock Difficult Words
Review the Words for Everyday Use. Carefully read each word, its definition, and the sentence using it. Then go back and read the part of the selection that uses this word. If you encounter other words you do not know, first try to determine their meanings using context clues. If that doesn't work, consult a dictionary.
After Reading
Share Your Ideas
With a small group of classmates, share the rhetorical questions you identified. What is the assumed answer to each question. How do these ideas relate to Henry's purpose?