Page 11 Reread the page that begins, “‘I am too timid …’” Why does Desert Woman decide to make a new animal?
SPOTLIGHT ON LANGUAGE On page 23, read the sentence that begins, “He shook his rattle …” Explain that the simile “it sounded like a thunderstorm” helps readers imagine what the rattle sounded like. The comparison connects the sound of Snake’s rattle to a loud and dangerous storm. Talk about how figurative language helps readers make pictures in their minds and enjoy the story.
Possible responses: All of the other animals are too afraid to stand up to Rattlesnake. Desert Woman knows something has to change. She thinks a new animal will be stronger or braver. Page 13 Reread the page that begins, “’He needs slender legs …’” How do the animals help Desert Woman create the new creature? Possible response: Each animal contributes its own special strength to the new creature. Page 17 Reread the page that begins, “Desert Woman helped Roadrunner stand …” What do we learn about Roadrunner as he starts to practice? Possible responses: He doesn’t give up. He wants to be helpful. He is brave. Page 21 Reread the page that begins, “He went racing down the road …” Why isn’t Roadrunner afraid of Rattlesnake? Possible responses: He is confident. He believes in himself. He knows he can dance and peck because he practiced. Page 25–27 Reread the page that begins, “You win! You win!”. Why do you think Roadrunner says, “No, now there is no king of the road.” Possible responses: Roadrunner isn’t a bully. He cares about others. He wants everyone to use the road safely. Page 29 Read the last paragraph of the Author’s Note. What message does the author want the reader to understand? Possible responses: Everyone should discover their special qualities and use them for the good of others. Explore More If time allows, continue the discussion with these additional prompts. How is Roadrunner different from the other animals in the story? What lesson do you think Rattlesnake learns after Roadrunner stands up to him? How do you know? Why do you think the author chose Roadrunner’s Dance as the title for the story?
Leader’s Guide • Lesson 14 | 111
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