Before Reading
Think About What You Know
Think about a time you have been away from home or a time when you have had to deal with a difficult situation on your own. Answer the Reader's Journal question. Then discuss your response with two or three of your classmates. In your discussion, talk about what things in your life would be difficult to do without the support of the people around you.
During Reading
Use What You Know
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first two stanzas of "The Wife's Lament." As you read, jot down words that describe the speaker's feelings. Imagine being in her situation.
2. Continue reading on your own. Keep on taking notes on how the speaker feels and why she feels this way. Compare her experiences to your ideas about feeling alone and not having support. What feelings does the wife have that are similar to ones you have had?
Fix-Up Idea: Use Guided Reading Questions
If you are having trouble following the selection, try using the Guided Reading Questions. These questions will help you identify main points in the selection. Each time you reach a Guided Reading Question, stop and read the question carefully. Then reread the lines of the selection near the question to find the answer.
After Reading
Respond Using What You Know
With your group from the Before-Reading activity, discuss the Respond to the Selection question. You might begin by thinking about what would comfort you in a similar situation.