(K-3) Reading Skill Mini-Lesson – Comprehension and Civic Virtue

Mini-Lesson. Reading Comprehension, Main Idea, Virtue. Students use the Franklin mini-book to practice identifying main ideas, making connections, and using text evidence while learning about civic virtue.

Objectives

• Students will. . .
  •  Read a text with purpose.
  •  Describe how Benjamin Franklin practiced civic virtues.
  •  Demonstrate understanding of civic virtues through discussion.

Facilitation Notes

• This mini-lesson is intended to be implemented in a short 20-30 minute class period.
• This lesson is intended for younger learners, from kindergarten to 3rd grade. Several modifications, such as different levels of texts and scaffolding notes, are available to span this large range of ages and developments.
• This lesson requires advance preparation, including collecting and printing materials. See the Teacher and Student Materials list.

Resources

Teacher Materials 

• Civic Virtue Songs
  • MP3 Song
• Chart paper for creating an anchor chart

Student Materials

Two versions of the mini-book are available based on the lexile level of your learners. Option A features clear, simple sentences, large easy‑to-read print, and a dedicated reflective writing page. With fewer total pages, it’s an ideal choice for younger learners or those who benefit from a streamlined, accessible format. Option B features more complex sentence structures and a longer page format. Skills boxes appear throughout to reinforce key literacy concepts including phonic spelling patterns (sounds), Fluency and Vocabulary practice words, and targeted phonemic awareness skills. This option offers a more robust challenge for developing readers who are ready for increased rigor.

• Franklin’s Fantastic Civic Virtues Mini-book
  • Two versions of the mini-book are available based on the lexile level of your learners.
    • Option A (K-1)
      • To create: Print single-sided, staple on left side where indicated, then cut on the dotted line to create books.
    • Print-Ready Option B (2-3)
      • Print double-sided, along short edge. Fold along center line and staple to create a book.
    • Digital Option B (2-3) – meant to be accessed via a device
• Group Assessment
  • Two options of the assessment are available to choose from based on the needs of your learners.
    • Option A (K-1)
    • Option B (2-3)