This lesson is based on Patricia C. McKissack's, "The Chicken-Coop Monster," Taken from the book, The Dark-Thirty.
Objective- identify the central idea, purpose, or theme.
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- predict outcomes
Materials- copy of "The Chicken-Coop Monster" and the response sheet
Procedure- Give students time to read the first three pages in the story. Using the response sheet, students pencil-in their individual responses. Bring students together as a whole group to discuss their responses to the beginning of McKissack's story. Responses to question number four may vary. Ask students to explain why they felt the words and phrases they circled were particularly descriptive. Set up a chart to record the different responses to the prediction questions. Students might discuss their different predictions and how their exposure to different predictions adds to the enjoyment of the story. Students can discuss and compare responses and change theirs if they wish to do so. Enjoy the rest of the story.
Response sheet
1) Where is Melissa living as the story begins? Why is she living there?
2) Why is Melissa afraid of the chicken-coop? What reasons does she give for her fear?
3) What is Melissa upset about? List at least two examples.
4) Circle words and phrases in the story that describe Melissa's feelings well.
5) What do you think the chicken-coop monster is? Why do you think so?
6) In your opinion, how can Melissa solve the mystery of the chicken-coop monster?
After the story
7) Tell how Melissa solved the mystery of the chicken-coop monster.
