My First American Friend

Day One

Before Reading: Read pages 4-10 to figure out if school was more difficult for Sarunna than for the other children. Tell why or why not. 

During Reading: 3 Ring Circus 

After Reading: Share answers and proof.

It was more difficult because she couldn’t speak English so she couldn’t make friends. 

Day Two

Before Reading: Read Pages 13 to the end to find out how does Ali change Sarunna’s life? 

During Reading: 3 Ring Circus 

After Reading: Share answers and proof.

Having a friend makes Sarunna feel happy and less homesick for China. 

Day Three: Author’s Viewpoint

Before Reading: ask children to find words and picture clues on pages 22-23 that show Sarunna is feeling happy now that she has made friends. What does that tell children about Sarunna’s views on friends and friendship? Friends make people feel happy. Use the following web to illustrate how story details reveal the author’s viewpoint.

During Reading: Partner read

After Reading: Share details that the author used to show her viewpoint. 
 
 
 
 
 

NAME _________________________________________________________________

My First American Friend

Day Three

How does having good friend make people happy? Use evidence from the story to prove this point.