Do The Right Thing

By June Stride, Ed. D.
Illustrated by Anthony Zammit

Edited by Tom Kinney, Rick Wolfsdorf and Rose Zammit
Graphic Design by Anthony Ribando
Attainment Company / Wolfpack Multimedia Inc.
P.O. Box 930160 Verona, Wisconsin
USA 53593-0160
1-800-327-4269
www.AttainmentCompany.com
An Attainment/Wolfpack Publication
Printed in China
2009 Attainment Company, Inc., and Wolfpack Multimedia, Inc.
All rights reserved.
ISBN: 1-57861-669-7
www.specialedsolutions.com
Do the Right Thing | Page 3
Page 4 | Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1. Talking Tings Over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
2. Tinking It Trough . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3. What to Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4. Not Quite Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
5. OOPS! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
6. Misplaced Concern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
7. Feeling Creepy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
8. Just in Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
9. An Unexpected Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
10. Maria An Eyewitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
11. Te Big Transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
12. Taking a Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
13. Te Accident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Table of Contents
14. An Important Phone Call . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
15. Sirens and Gurneys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
16. A Stressful Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
17. A Day O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
18. Te Invitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
19. Talking It Over . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
20. Saturday Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
21. Making Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
22. Mi Amigo, Jos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
23. Getting Ready . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
24. Te Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
25. A Surprise at the Wedding Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Table of Contents | Page 5
immediately at once, without delay
Jerome immediately braked his bike and
skidded to a stop.
skidded an uncontrolled slide
Jeromes bike skidded to a stop.
curiously eager or anxious to know
Whats up with Rafael? Alan asked curiously.
rambled talked on without staying on the topic
Jerome rambled on about a trip to the hospital.
Page 6 | Chapter 1
Vocabulary
1
novella
They knocked knuckles as they greeted each other.
Jerome put on his bike helmet and tightened the strap. Next, he clipped his
water bottle to the bike frame below his seat. He got on his bike and kicked up the
stand. Grinning, he took o.
He and Alan had decided to meet at North Central Park. Tey planned to
ride the bike path as they usually did. Jerome got to the park rst. Almost immediately
after, Alan braked and skidded to a stop next to Jerome. Both boys laughed. Tey
knocked knuckles as they greeted each other.
Talking Tings Over
Talking Things Over | Page 7
1
novella
Sharing with a Friend
Talking Tings Over
Hey, Jerome. How are things? Alan asked.
OK. How are things by you? Jerome asked in return.
Te two boys had been friends for over a year now and felt comfortable talking
with each other about stu they had never shared with anyone else before.
Jerome paused before continuing, Hey, Alan, I really need to talk to you
about something. Im worried about Rafael. Hes my friend from BEST-BUY that
I told you about.
Whats up with Rafael? Alan asked curiously.
Hey, Jerome. How are things? Alan asked.
Page 8 | Chapter 1
Ive been thinking I should visit him.
Jerome cleared his throat and continued, Remember Rafael is the guy I told
you hasnt been to work lately. Yesterday, Mr. Daniels, our manager told me that Rafael
would be out for a while. He said that Rafael had to go into the hospital. Im worried
about him. I want him to be all right. But if he is going to be staying in the hospital,
I guess he isnt all right.
True, Alan replied thoughtfully.
So, Ive been thinking that I should visit him, Jerome added.
Yeah, that would be good, Alan agreed.
Jerome continued, I bet he could use a friend now. Ive never visited anyone
in the hospital. Jerome rambled on sounding nervous. I could get lost or say the
wrong thing.
Want me to go with you? Alan asked helpfully.
Yeah, yeah. Tat would be great! Jerome responded. I would feel much
more comfortable if you went with me.
Want me to go with you? Alan asked helpfully.
Page 10 | Chapter 1
When Jerome and Alan met at North Central Park, they laughed and knocked
knuckles. Tese were signs of:
a. greeting b. dislike c. anger
Often when people meet, they smile, shake hands, say hello or even knock knuckles.
Tese are all signs of _________________________.
Whom did Jerome meet at North Central Park?
How did the boys travel to the park?
Why did the two boys feel comfortable sharing with each other?
Why did Jerome want to visit Rafael?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
teasing making fun playfully
Jerome said that his mother was always teasing him.
confused mixed up or unable to think or act sensibly
Jerome got confused in new situations.
jotted write something down quickly
Jerome jotted down four questions to ask.
Vocabulary
Page 12 | Chapter 2
Thinking it Through | Page 13
Hey, Mom, I need to talk to you.
Hey, Mom, I need to talk to you, Jerome called out as he walked into
the kitchen where his mom was preparing dinner.
Do you need an expert, Jerome? Do you think Ill be able to help? Perhaps
the two of us can work it out together, Mom replied with a smile.
Mom, youre always teasing me, Jerome replied. Tis is serious, Mom.
He continued, Remember I told you about Rafael having to be in the hospital?
I want to visit him. Alan said hed go with me.
Tat doesnt sound like much of a problem. In fact, it sounds like a great
idea, Jeromes mom answered.
2
Preparing for a Hospital Visit
novella
Tinking it Trough
I need your help.
No, Mom, that part isnt the problem, Jerome said. I need your help to
gure out how to do it. I dont want to mess things up. I sometimes get stu confused
when I try new things.
Okay. Now I think Ive got the picture, Jeromes mom said. Lets think it
through, Jerome. First, what is Rafaels last name?
I dont know! We always go by our rst names at work. But I do know hes in
North Central Hospital, Jerome responded. He was glad that he had remembered the
name of the hospital.
Page 14 | Chapter 2
First things rst.
Well, Jeromes mother continued, Why dont you call Mr. Daniels at work?
I bet he will tell you Rafaels last name.
Good idea, Mom. Yes, I will call. But wont I need to know more stu before
we go? Jerome questioned.
Mom said, First things rst. First, its important to nd out Rafaels last
name. After that, you can look up the phone number and call North Central Hospital.
Tey will be able to give you some important information to help you plan your visit
with Rafael.
What questions do I need to ask? Ive never visited a sick person in the
hospital on my own before, Jerome said.
Jeromes mother smiled and suggested, Get a pencil and paper, Jerome. As we
think up the questions, you can write them down. Be sure to leave some space after
each question. You will need to write down what the person at the hospital tells you.
Jerome and his mom talked for a while. Ten, Jerome jotted down these
four questions:
1. What are the hospital visiting hours?
2. Which bus should I take to get to North Central Hospital?
3. How often do the buses run?
4. How long will it take to get there?
Jerome jotted down these four questions.
Page 16 | Chapter 2
Jeromes body language and the look on his face showed that Jerome was:
a. condent b. annoyed c. uncertain
We often ask for help from trusted family and friends when we are _______________
about what to do.
What person did Jerome turn to for help planning a trip to the hospital?
Find a sentence that tells why Jerome felt that he needed help.
Why did Jerome need to call Mr. Daniels at work?
Why did Jerome write down the questions and then leave space after
each question?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
etiquette rules of polite behavior
Alan and Jerome were not sure about the proper
hospital etiquette.
prompt card a cue card or written reminder
Jerome made a prompt card for the hospital visit.
fare fee or amount of money paid to ride on a bus
Te fare for the ride on the downtown bus was $1.50.
anxious wanting to do something very much
Te boys were not anxious to make the move to go
into the hospital.
awful terrible, dreadful
We dont tell him he looks awful, even if he does.
Page 18 | Chapter 3
Vocabulary
What to Do | Page 19
Jerome phoned Alan to talk over their plans.
Jerome made the two phone calls. His moms idea about writing the
questions and leaving space for the answers really helped. He found out Rafaels last
name was Rodriguez. He also got the necessary information from the hospital. Ten
he phoned Alan to talk over their plans for the hospital visit. Tey decided to meet at
the bus stop.
What to Do
3
Hospital Etiquette
novella
Jerome showed Alan the prompt card.
Te next day, the boys met at the bus stop. Since they both arrived early, they
chatted for a few minutes. Jerome showed Alan the prompt card that he and his mom
had made.
Downtown Bus Route 14, $1.50 exact fare
Pick up at Oak and Balboa Streets. Bus runs every half hour
Rafael Rodriguez, Second Floor, Room 223, North Central Hospital
Visiting hours 3 P.M. - 5 P.M.
Te bus was a few minutes late. Tey had plenty of time to get their bus fare
out before they boarded. It was a direct twenty-minute ride to the hospital.
Page 20 | Chapter 3
The boys took a few minutes to discuss what they would do.
Te bus left them o at a stop at the front entrance of the hospital. Neither
Jerome nor Alan seemed anxious to make the move to go into the hospital. In fact,
they took a few minutes to discuss what they would and wouldnt do during their visit.

No sneezing or coughing, except into a tissue, Alan stated.
Mom said to only stay ve or ten minutes so we dont tire Rafael out,
Jerome added.
Jerome and Alan continued talking as they walked into the lobby. Jerome said,
We wont tell him he looks awful, even if he does!
And we wont sit on the bed, Alan stated. When I talked to my mom about
our visit, she also said to check at the nurses station to make sure that Rafael can have
visitors today. She said it was important for us to leave if the doctor or a nurse comes to
see Rafael. If that happens, we better remember to tell him good-bye.
Jerome and Alan continued talking as they walked into the lobby.
Page 22 | Chapter 3
Jerome had never visited anyone in the hospital before. He was concerned that he
might make a mistake. He felt:
a. worried b. pleased c. annoyed
When we try new things or experience new situations we might feel ______________
___________ about knowing what to do.
How did Alan and Jerome plan to travel to the hospital?
What were the visiting hours at the hospital?
What did the boys talk about before going into the hospital?
How can knowing hospital etiquette help people who are visiting patients?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
squared stood up straight with shoulders back
Alan squared his shoulders before marching to the
reception desk.
reception a place where visitors are rst greeted
Alan marched up to the reception desk.
lobby a large entrance hall
Te reception desk was in the hospital lobby.
tagged followed along with someone
Jerome tagged behind hoping Alan knew what to do.
proceeded continued forward
Te boys proceeded in the direction the lady pointed.
scrub suit and surgical mask a loose two-piece outt worn
by doctors and a covering for the nose and mouth
Te man wore a blue scrub suit and a surgical mask.
surgery a medical treatment that involves an operation
Only visitors with special passes are allowed in the
Emergency Surgery area.
stern strict, very serious
Te boys hurried away from the stern man.
Vocabulary
Page 24 | Chapter 4
Vocabulary
Not Quite Right | Page 25
Alan asked, Please can you tell us how to get to Room 223?
Alan squared his shoulders. He marched up to the reception desk in the
hospital lobby. He looked like he knew what he was doing. Jerome tagged behind
hoping that Alan did know what to do.
Smiling, Alan asked the lady who was seated at the computer, Please, could
you tell us how to get to Room 223? Were here to visit Rafael Rodriguez.
Of course! Take the elevator across the hall up to the second oor, she
replied pleasantly.
Not Quite Right
4
novella
Courage to Try
Alan grabbed Jeromes arm and tugged him into the elevator.
Te boys proceeded in the direction that the lady pointed. Tere were four
elevators, two on each side of the hall. Just as the boys arrived, an elevator door
opened. Before looking to see if the up button or the down button was lit,
Alan got in.
Hurry up, Jerome, Alan said anxiously.
Alan grabbed Jeromes arm and tugged him into the elevator. Te doors
quickly closed and the elevator began to move. A few moments later, the doors
reopened. Te boys stepped out.
Page 26 | Chapter 4
A man in a blue scrub suit and a surgical mask rushed towards them.
After exiting the elevator, the boys headed down the hall. As they reached the
corner of the hall, a man in a blue scrub suit and a surgical mask rushed towards them.

He spoke in a very serious voice. Excuse me, boys, he said, do you have a
pass? Only visitors with special passes are permitted in the Emergency Surgery Wing.
If you dont have special passes, you will have to leave immediately. You must be on the
wrong oor.
Te boys hurried back to the elevators and away from the stern man in the
blue scrub suit. Tey wondered what they had done wrong. Tey looked for the
elevator buttons next to each door. Jerome noticed that these elevators had only one
button next to each door. Tere did not seem to be a choice about which one to push.
Should they push the one button?
Maybe visiting Rafael in the hospital wasnt such a good idea, Jerome said in
a quiet voice. He looked both discouraged and a bit unsure.
Jerome noticed that these elevators had only one button.
Page 28 | Chapter 4
Te doctors face and pointing ngers gave a message that he was:
a. joking b. inviting c. serious
Body language, such as a stern look and a pointing nger, send a
___________________________ message.
Which boy was the rst one to march up to the reception desk?
Whom did the boys plan to visit in the hospital?
What problem did Alan and Jerome have with the elevators?
Why did Jerome feel discouraged and unsure after they took the elevator?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
condent certain or sure about something
Feeling more condent, the boys got on the
elevator again.
indicated pointed out, showed
Jerome pushed the button that the nurse
had indicated.
relieved feeling a break from nervousness or stress
Yes! Finally, here at last! Alan exclaimed
sounding relieved.
downcast sad, looking down to the ground
Jerome came out immediately looking downcast.
embarrassed feeling ashamed, very self-conscious
Jerome was embarrassed that he had gone
into the ladies room.
Vocabulary
Page 30 | Chapter 5
Vocabulary
OOPS! | Page 31
Excuse me nurse. Can you help us?
Alan and Jerome were confused and a bit upset. As they stood by the
elevators, a nurse with papers in her hand walked toward them. Te smile on her face
made her look friendly. Alan decided to take a chance and said, Excuse me, nurse.
Can you help us?
I certainly can try. What seems to be the problem? the nurse asked in a
soft voice.
Alan explained, We came to visit a friend on the second oor. We took the
elevator near the lobby and got o at the rst stop and ended up here.
OOPS!
5
Too Much in a Rush
5
novella
She pointed to the panel of buttons to the side of the door.
So thats the problem, she responded smiling. Tis is the lower level, the
Surgery Floor. Te Surgery Floor is one stop going down from the lobby. One stop
going up from the lobby is the second oor. You must have gotten on a lobby elevator
that was going down.
As the kind nurse was talking, an elevator arrived and the doors opened.
She said, Here let me show you how to get to the second oor. She pointed to the
panel of buttons at the side of the door. Ten she continued, See these buttons?
Push the number 2 button and you will get to your friends oor in no time. Just make
sure not to get o on the rst oor. Tat is our lobby. One stop more will get you to
the second oor.
Page 32 | Chapter 5
OOPS! | Page 33
Alan, I need to use the restroom right away.
Feeling more condent, the boys got on the elevator again. Jerome pushed the
button that the nurse had indicated. After a quick ride, the elevator doors opened.
Te boys immediately saw a large sign on the wall that said 2nd Floor.
Yes! Finally, here at last! Alan exclaimed sounding relieved.
Jerome cut him o. Alan, I need to use the restroom right away. Before
saying another word, he rushed down the hall to a sign that indicated restrooms.
Jerome quickly opened the door and ran in as Alan struggled to catch up to him.
Oh, no! Alan said aloud. Looks like Jerome was in too much of a hurry.
Just then, a lady hurried out of the restroom. Alan could hear her shouting.
Excuse me. EXCUSE ME! Dont you know youre in the Ladies Room? Whats this
world coming to?
Jerome came out almost immediately following the lady. He looked downcast
and embarrassed. Alan saw him hurry into the restroom next door.
Excuse me. EXCUSE ME! Dont you know youre in the Ladies Room?
Page 34 | Chapter 5
OOPS! | Page 35
Not carefully reading the restroom signs caused Jerome to feel:
a. pleased b. angry c. embarrassed
When we need to use the bathroom immediately, we may make a mistake about which
restroom to use. Tis can cause us to feel _________________________.
Who helped Jerome and Alan gure out how to use the elevator to get to the
second oor?
What did Jerome need to do when they reached the second oor?
Why was the lady in the restroom so upset?
Why did Jerome go into both restrooms?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
barely almost, scarcely
Jerome could barely hold his head up.
rejoined joined with again, meet up with again
Jerome rejoined Alan in the hall.
amused feeling something is funny
Alan was amused at Jeromes mistake.
gure shape of human body, symbol showing shape
of something
Jerome was in such a rush that he did not look at the
gures on the signs posted outside the restrooms.
mumbled spoke something in a quiet or unclear way
Jerome mumbled, I really want to see Rafael.
nursing station the nursing area where nurses greet people
and keep patient records
Alan said, Lets see if the nursing station is down
this hall.
expressions look on somebodys face that shows a feeling
Both boys had pleased expressions as they approached
the nursing station.
Vocabulary
Page 36 | Chapter 6
Vocabulary
Misplaced Concern | Page 37
I cant believe I went into the Ladies Room!
Jerome could barely hold his head up when he rejoined Alan in the hall.
Alan was trying to hide a grin. He was a bit amused. He said, Tis has been some day,
Jerome. What else can go wrong?
Jerome took a deep breath before saying, I really messed up. Im so
embarrassed. I cant believe I went into the Ladies Room!
I bet that lady cant believe it either! Alan said.
Misplaced Concern
6
novella
The Hospital Visit
I ran into the rst doorway without looking carefully at the signs.
Jerome slowly began to calm down now that the emergency had past.
He explained, I saw the big restroom sign. I was in such a hurry. I ran into the rst
doorway without looking carefully at the signs. Now I see there are two other signs.
One has a gure in pants. Te other has a gure with a dress, Jerome said, trying to
describe how it happened.
I bet thats one mistake neither of us will make again. Alan responded with
a grin on his face.
Page 38 | Chapter 6
They spotted a NURSE STATION sign.
Still looking embarrassed, Jerome mumbled, I really want to see Rafael.
I hope nothing else goes wrong.

Are we ready to give it another try? I dont think we can be too far from
Rafael. Lets see if the nursing station is down this hall, Alan said as he began to walk
down the hallway.
Before long, they spotted a NURSE STATION sign with an arrow pointing
to the right. Tey looked at each other. Both boys had pleased expressions as they
approached a nurse standing at the counter.
Jerome was nervous about what to say. He handed Alan the prompt card with
Rafaels information on it and stepped aside.
Smiling, Alan looked at the young nurse and showed her the card. He asked,
Can you help us, please? We would like to see Rafael Rodriguez.
Certainly, the nurse answered. Rafael is across the hall, two doors down.
You will see his name posted on the wall outside of his room.
Alan and Jerome grinned. Tey gave each other a thumbs-up sign as they
walked down to Rafaels room. Peeking into the room, Jerome spotted Rafael lying in
the bed. Jeromes grin turned into a big smile as he called, Hey, Rafael. Were here to
visit you!
Hey, Rafael. Were here to visit you!
Page 40 | Chapter 6
Alan put his hand to his mouth to try to cover a big grin. His eyes and smile showed
that he was:
a. amused b. angry c. furious
Someone elses embarrassing mistake can make us feel ___________________ but
thankful that it was not our mistake.
Who made the mistake of going into the wrong restroom?
What did Alan do in response to the mistake?
How did Jerome happen to make the mistake?
Why did Jerome step aside so that Alan could talk to the nurse?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
scrolled moved up and down to locate something
Maria picked up her cell phone and scrolled down
to Biancas name.
automatically working by itself
After Maria entered Biancas name, the cell phone
automatically called Biancas number.
choices a variety of things or options
Shoes-4-U had many choices of shoes.
shelter place that gives cover from weather
A man was leaning against the side of a bus shelter.
creeps unsettled feelings or uneasy feelings because
of fear or disgust
Te man gave Maria the creeps.
uncomfortable feeling ill-at-ease, not feeling comfortable
Te man made Maria feel very uncomfortable.
weird strange, frightening
Te man gave Maria a weird look.
Page 42 | Chapter 7
Vocabulary
Feeling Creepy | Page 43
Feeling Creepy
7
novella
Alert to Discomfort
Yesterday the heel on my shoe broke.
Maria didnt care much about clothes but she certainly did love shoes.
It was a broken heel on her favorite pair of shoes that made Maria decide to call
her friend, Bianca, from work. She picked up her cell phone and scrolled down to
BIANCA. Ten, she pressed ENTER.
Her phone automatically connected. A voice said, Hello. Tis is Bianca.
Hi, Bianca. Tis is Maria from work. Are you doing anything special today?
Yesterday the heel on one of my shoes broke. I want to get a new pair. Will you go with
me to Shoes-4-U?
Mom will help me make a prompt card.
Sure. I like that store. Tey have lots of choices and the prices are much lower
than the other stores. What time? Will we take the A line bus? Bianca asked.
Maria thought for a minute and then said, I had better ask Mom. She will
help me make a prompt card, just in case I forget something. Lets meet at the Pine
Street bus stop at 1:30.
Okay, Maria, Bianca said, I will meet you at the bus stop at 1:30. Bye.
Page 44 | Chapter 7
The man gave her the creeps.
Maria got to the bus stop early. She took a seat on the bench. Tere was only
one other person there, a man. He was leaning against the side of the bus shelter.
Te man looked at Maria carefully. Ten he took his time to look her over again.
Maria decided it was not a friendly kind of look. In fact, the man gave her the creeps.
Maria felt very uncomfortable.
Maria looked at her watch. It was almost 1:20. She thought, Where is Bianca?
I hate being here alone. I wish Bianca would get here.
Te man walked away from the shelter. He moved closer to Maria. All the
time, he stared at her with a weird look.
Maria was unsure what to do. Her hands got sweaty. She felt her heart beating
faster. She was very nervous. She bent forward on the bench. Ten, she moved to the
edge of the bench as far away from the man as she could. Oh, no. What should I do?
Maria asked herself. She looked up to see the man staring at her with a strange grin on
his face. He sat down on the bench and began sliding over next to her.
He stared at her with a weird look.
Page 46 | Chapter 7
Marias body language showed that Maria felt:
a. relaxed b. uncomfortable c. happy
When a person close by acts strange or in a threatening manner, we get upset
and feel ______________________
What article of clothing did Maria love?
Why did Maria call her friend, Bianca?
Why did Maria decide to make a prompt card?
Why did the strange man at the bus stop upset Maria?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
potential possibility of something happening in the future
Maria felt the potential of danger.
panic a sudden feeling of fear
Maria began to panic when the man began
sliding over near her on the bench.
murmured spoke quietly in a low voice
Maria murmured to herself, Bianca, hurry
and get here.
exclaimed crying or calling out suddenly
Maria exclaimed, I am so happy to see you!
Page 48 | Chapter 8
Vocabulary
Just in Time | Page 49
Just in Time
8
Responding to Potential Danger
She murmured, Bianca, hurry and get here.
Maria began to panic. Suddenly, she remembered what her mother had
told her about upsetting situations. She had said, Maria, remember that when you feel
upset and panicky, take a few deep breaths. Tat will help you calm down so that you
can think more clearly. Dont forget that you have your cell phone if you need help.
Maria took a few deep breaths. She hoped they would help her calm down.
She glanced at her watch. It was now 1:25. Softly, she murmured to herself, Bianca,
hurry up and get here.
novella
Hi, Bianca! Maria waved and ran toward her.
Perhaps the deep breathing helped Maria think more clearly. She stood up and
took a few steps away from the bench and away from the man. She was ready to take
her cell phone out of her purse to call Bianca when she spotted her walking toward the
bus stop. Maria breathed a huge sigh of relief.
Hi, Bianca! Maria waved and ran toward her.
Bianca was surprised to see Marias burst of energy. She did not remember
Maria ever running to greet her before. Te two girls hugged.
Maria exclaimed, I am so happy to see you!
Page 50 | Chapter 8
Heres the A line bus.
Bianca was again surprised. It was unusual for Maria to act so glad to see her
that she gave her a hug. Just then she noticed a bus turning onto Pine Street.
Hi, Maria. Bianca said. Isnt this perfect timing? Heres the A line bus.
Isnt that our bus to downtown?
Nodding her head in agreement, Maria said, Yes, thats what my prompt
card says.
As the girls got out their bus money, Maria noticed that the creepy man was
walking quickly away. By the time the bus had stopped to pick up the girls, he was out
of sight.
Te girls boarded the bus and took the rst empty seat behind the driver.
Smiling, Bianca looked over and noticed that Maria was near tears. Maria, what is
wrong? Did you change your mind? Dont you want to go to the shoe store?
Oh, yes, I do. Its not that. Its that I was so frightened while I was waiting
for you. Did you see that man hurrying away from the bus stop? I dont think he was
a nice man. I was afraid that he was about to do something to me. You arrived just in
time. Im so glad youre here. Now I understand why our teachers and parents say that
theres safety in numbers.
I was so frightened while I was waiting for you.
Page 52 | Chapter 8
What did Maria feel when she saw Bianca walking toward the bus stop?
a. anger b. annoyance c. relief
Talking to or being with a trusted friend or family member can help us
to feel______________________ from fear or danger.
Who told Maria to take deep breaths to help her calm down in
upsetting situations?
What did Maria do when she spotted Bianca walking to the bus stop?
What two things did Maria do that surprised Bianca?
Why do you think adults sometimes say, Teres safety in numbers?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
dishonest meant to trick people, not honest
Te woman who stole the wallets was dishonest.
fashion display clothing arranged for others to see
Maria and Bianca enjoyed the fashion displays.
inappropriate not tting, not suitable
Some of the fashions were inappropriate to wear for work.
awed feeling of amazement
Maria was awed at the many shoe choices on display.
shivers to shake
Maria said, Just looking at all these beautiful shoes
gives me the shivers.
casual informal and relaxed
Maria ruled out the casual shoes.
accessories clothing worn to t a special purpose
Bianca had fun looking at accessories.
several more than two or three of something
Te woman dropped several wallets into her shopping bag.
Page 54 | Chapter 9
Vocabulary
An Unexpected Event | Page 55
An Unexpected Event
9
Witnessing a Dishonest Act
They laughed about how inappropriate some of the outts would be for work.
Maria and Bianca spotted the Shoes-4-U store as soon as they turned
the corner. Tey were not in a big rush. Tey took time to look at the clothes in the
store windows on the street leading to Shoes-4-U. Tey enjoyed seeing the new fashion
displays. Tey laughed about how inappropriate some of the outts would be for work.
When they reached the shoe store, they stood outside for a few minutes.
Tey looked at all the shoes in the windows. Tey were awed at the many shoe choices.
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Just looking at all these beautiful shoes gives me the shivers.
Marias face broke into a big smile. She was very much enjoying the
opportunity to select a pair for herself. She said, Oh, Bianca, this is my idea of heaven!
Just looking at all these beautiful shoes gives me the shivers. And, just think, I can buy
a pair for myself today with money from my own paycheck!
With that, the two girls marched into the store. Tey began checking out the
aisles to locate Marias size, an eight. Tere were so many shoes from which to pick.
Tere were so many colors and styles.
Page 56 | Chapter 9
She picked out different styles of tan shoes.
Maria ruled out the casual sandals and sneakers. She began concentrating on
low-heeled tan colored shoes. She picked out dierent styles of tan shoes and piled
them in their boxes on the oor by the little stool. While she tried them on, Bianca
wandered around admiring handbags and other accessories.
Maria nally decided that the low-heeled tan shoes with the little bows looked
the best. Tey would go with several of her outts. She put both of them on and
admired them in the mirror. She decided to walk around Shoes-4-U to make sure
they were the right t.
Maria noticed that the shoe store had gotten busier. Tere were quite a few
shoppers in line waiting to pay. As Maria walked past the cashier, she noticed a woman
with two big shopping bags. Te woman was standing by a wallet display and looking
around nervously. While the cashier was busy helping other customers, the woman
slipped several wallets from the display into one of her bags. She quickly turned and
rushed out of the store.
Marias covered her mouth. Oh, my gosh! Tat lady is stealing those wallets.
What should I do? Should I pretend I didnt see her? Should I tell the cashier what
I saw? I dont know what to do.
Oh, my gosh! That lady is stealing those wallets.
Page 58 | Chapter 9
Te look on Marias face showed how she felt when she witnessed the dishonest act.
She felt:
a. delighted b. shocked c. bored
Seeing someone commit a crime against other people can be very upsetting and cause
us to feel __________________________.
In what store did Maria and Bianca plan to shop?
How did Maria expect to pay for shoes that she had selected?
What did Maria see that upset her?
What did Maria plan to do about what she saw?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
witnessed saw something that happened, especially a crime
Maria witnessed the lady drop several wallets into
her shopping bag.
escorted person accompanying another person
Te woman was escorted to the managers oce.
daze not thinking clearly, confused
Maria did not notice that Bianca was talking to her
because she was in a daze.
eyewitness somebody who sees something happen
Maria was an eyewitness to the crime.
Vocabulary
Page 60 | Chapter 10
Vocabulary
Maria An Eyewitness | Page 61
She didnt know what to do about what she had witnessed.
Maria felt troubled. She knew that stealing was wrong. But she didnt
know what to do about what she had witnessed. Maria sighed out loud. She thought,
Should I pretend that I didnt see the woman put the wallets in her shopping bag?
Maybe I should speak to the manager. Oh, where is Bianca? I bet she could help me
gure out what to do.
Te next few minutes were confusing and upsetting for Maria. She seemed
frozen and unable to move. She felt as if she was having a bad dream.
Maria An Eyewitness
10
Reacting To a Dishonest Act
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Maria was focused on what was happening just outside the door.
Maria did not realize that Bianca had joined her and that she was talking to
her. Bianca was very excited to show Maria the handbag that she had picked out for
herself. She tugged on Marias arm to get her attention. Bianca did not notice that
Maria seemed upset. Maria, you are not the only one buying something today.
Look at this neat handbag I picked out, Bianca said holding up a dark brown
leather-look bag.
Maria was focused on what was happening just outside the door and not on
Bianca. She noticed that a well-dressed male customer appeared next to the woman
with the large shopping bags. He opened his wallet and showed the woman a card.
Oh, Bianca, you wont believe what just happened.
Maria thought she heard the man say in a rm voice, Please come with me.
Te man escorted the woman back into the store and to the managers oce.
Te oce door opened and closed immediately after the two were inside.
Maria was still in a daze. Bianca called to her, Maria, Maria. I have been
calling your name and talking to you. You didnt even look up. You dont look so good.
Whats wrong?
Maria turned to face her friend. She was nally aware that Bianca had been
talking to her. In a very quiet voice Maria said, Oh, Bianca, you wont believe what
just happened.
Maria tried to talk and catch her breath at the same time. Maria took a minute
to calm down. She then said, I decided to walk around the store to test the t of these
shoes. It was then that I saw it all happen. Maria looked down at her feet. She seemed
to have forgotten all about trying on the new shoes.
What happened? Bianca questioned. I think you had better sit down so you
can catch your breath. Bianca took Maria by the arm and sat her down on the bench
in the front of the store.
I want to hear the whole story, Maria, but rst we had better take care of our
purchases. After that, why dont we go next door and get a cold drink? You can tell me
everything then, Bianca suggested.
I think you had better sit down so you can catch your breath.
Maria watched the woman leaving with the police ocer. Marias face showed that
she seemed:
a. upset b. delighted c. tired
People may feel shocked and __________________ if they are an eyewitness to
something dishonest.
Write the sentence that tells how Maria felt about stealing.
What did Bianca decide to buy?
What happened to the woman after she hurried out of Shoes-4-U?
Why didnt Maria pay attention to what Bianca was trying to tell her?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
transaction a business deal
Maria completed the transaction by paying the
cashier for her shoes.
sales tax amount of money that the government charges for purchases,
amount added to the price of an item
Maria reminded Bianca that the sales tax needed
to be included in the total cost.
calculations working out the answer to a math problem
Maria began to focus on the calculations to gure out
the total cost for the shoes she wanted to buy.
percent shown as % on a calculator, used to gure out
the sales tax
Bianca pressed the percent button on her calculator
to calculate the sales tax.
budget a plan that shows how money will be spent
Maria stayed within her budget when she bought
the new shoes.
Vocabulary
The Big Transaction | Page 67
Te Big Transaction
11
Making a Purchase
OK, Maria. Lets gure out what we owe.
he two friends sat on a bench in the front of the store. Maria put the new
shoes in their box and her old shoes back on her feet.
OK, Maria. Lets gure out what we owe, Bianca announced.
Bianca took a calculator and a small pad and pen from her purse. She handed
the pad and pen to Maria. Maria wrote the price of the shoes on the pad, $18.99.
Bianca entered the price on the calculator.
Maria tried hard to focus. She asked, And, what about sales tax? Shouldnt
that be a part of our calculations?
T
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Bianca quickly calculated the cost of the handbag.
Bianca loved to shop. She knew all about adding the sales tax to the price of
the item. She quickly hit the percent button to calculate the sales tax. Ten she added
both numbers on the calculator and showed the total to Maria.
Bianca smiled, You are in luck, Maria! Te total price comes to $19.42.
Maria wrote the total on the notepad. Feeling a little more settled, she turned
to Bianca, Guess what? I stayed within my budget! Tese new shoes are going home
with me today. Im so glad. What about you and that handbag?
Bianca quickly calculated the total cost of the handbag. Pleased with their
calculations, Bianca and Maria joined the checkout line. Tey had just completed
paying for their purchases when a police ocer entered the store.
The police ofcer and the woman walked out together.
Marias eyes followed the police ocer as he headed towards the managers
oce. Bianca tugged on her arm. She said, Maria, come on. Lets go. You are holding
up the line.
Maria stepped away from the line. She stood looking at the managers oce
that the police ocer had just entered. She mumbled to Bianca, Just a minute.
I want to see what happens.
Before long, the managers door opened. Te police ocer and the woman
walked out together. Te woman looked as if she had been crying and did not want to
leave with the police ocer. Tey walked through the doors and into the parked police
car at the curb.
Bianca looked shocked. Still unaware of what Maria had witnessed, she turned
to face Maria, Whats going on?
Tats what I was trying to tell you, Bianca, Maria began. While you
were looking at the handbags, I saw that woman drop several wallets into one of her
shopping bags and rush out of the store. Ive never seen someone steal before.
I didnt know what to do.
So thats what happened, Bianca responded. No wonder you didnt answer
when I kept calling your name. How scary! How exciting! Better than a TV show.
Whats going on?
Te police ocer escorted the woman to the police car. Te womans body language
and face showed that she was:
a. happy b. relieved c. troubled
We may feel ______________________ if we are caught doing something that is
dishonest or harmful to others.
What three things did Bianca take from her purse to calculate the cost of
their purchases?
How much did the shoes cost that Maria had chosen?
In what way does sales tax aect the cost of a purchase?
Why did the police ocer take the woman from the store?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
display a collection of things arranged for others to see
A display of the fresh fruits caught their attention.
nutritious food or drink that contains substances that
promote health
Te girls decided to have a cooling and nutritious drink.
papaya a tropical yellow fruit that is eaten or used in juice
Bianca decided to try some papaya juice.
plunking dropping suddenly and causing a heavy sound
Maria placed her smoothie on the table before
plunking the shoebox next to it.
distracted worried and not able to focus or concentrate
Te scene outside of the window distracted Maria.
ignore to refuse to pay attention to something or someone
Bianca told Maria, Maybe I make up my mind to
ignore some things I dont want to deal with.
Vocabulary
Taking a Break | Page 73
Taking a Break
12
Social Etiquette
The display of fresh fruits caught their attention.
Bianca and Maria left Shoes-4-U as the police car pulled away. Te two
girls walked a few stores down the street to Frooties Fresh Fruit Bar. Tey looked at
the pictures of the smoothies in the window. On the counter inside, a display of the
fresh fruits used to make the nutritious drinks caught their attention.
Oh, boy, I have always wanted to try papaya juice. Today, I think Ill try it.
After the day weve had, we need a break! Bianca exclaimed. She ordered a papaya
juice drink.
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Maria, whats going on with you today?
I dont want to try anything new. I just want my usual. Please make me a
large strawberry-orange cooler, Maria said to the young man behind the counter.
Te girls each paid for their drink. Tey found a small table by the window.
Maria placed her smoothie on the table before plunking the box with her new shoes
next to it. She sank down into the nearest chair. She still seemed distracted. She stared
through the window down the street at the shoe store.
Maria, whats going on with you today? Bianca asked.
Oh, Bianca, this has been such a crazy day.
Oh, Bianca, this has been such a crazy day. First, that creepy man at the bus
stop really worried me. Ten, seeing that woman stealing in the store upset me. I get
upset and frightened when I dont know what to do. Bianca, you always seem to know
what to do! Maria exclaimed.
Maybe I just make up my mind to ignore the things that I dont want to deal
with, Bianca answered. Ten, changing the subject, she asked, Say, Maria, why do
you think that lady stole those wallets? I think she just wanted them and didnt want to
pay for them.
I dont know, Bianca. I sure wouldnt do it. Stealing is wrong. Maybe she
is one of those people with a stealing disease. I saw a TV program about people who
dont seem to be able to stop stealing stu. Wouldnt that be awful? Maria asked.
Hmm, yep, it would, Bianca said. Changing the topic again, she added,
You know what? Im not crazy about papaya juice. Next time, Ill stick with a
watermelon cooler. As Bianca glanced up at the fruit display on the counter, she
noticed the clock on the wall.
Maria, check your prompt card. When is the next bus? Bianca asked.
I think we had better get going.
She noticed the clock on the wall.
Marias face and body language showed how she felt about the two upsetting events of
the day. She was:
a. bothered b. happy c. lonely
Sometimes we are ____________________ by the unkind or dishonest behavior of
other people.
Where did the girls go after leaving the shoe store?
What did Bianca order?
Why did Maria seem upset and distracted?
How could a stealing disease aect both the people who have the disease and
some people who do not have it?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
accident an unfortunate event that happens without planning it
Bianca and her mother had talked about what
to do in case of an accident.
emergency sudden and unexpected event that requires immediate
medical attention
Biancas mom said, Remember when we talked
about what to do in case of an accident or emergency?
rambled talked for a long time without keeping to a topic
Maria rambled on about the two scary incidents.
unaware not conscious of something
Bianca was totally unaware of another scary event
that would shake her up.
wandered walked someplace without hurrying
Bianca wandered home.
sprawled in a lying position with arms and legs spread
out awkwardly
Bianca saw her mom sprawled on the oor of the
laundry room.
Vocabulary
The Accident | Page 79
Te Accident
13
An Emergency at Home
They talked about the two scary incidents.
Maria and Bianca quickly gathered their belongings. Tey cleared the
table and put their trash in the basket. Ten, they dashed out to the bus stop. Good
thing we hurried. We just have enough time to get our fare out. Te bus is due any
minute! Bianca exclaimed.
Maria and Bianca had lots to talk about on the bus trip home. Tey rambled
on about the two scary incidents, one at the bus stop and the other at Shoes-4U.
Bianca was totally unaware of another scary event that would shake her up when she
got home.
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I guess mom got home early today.
Bianca got o at the Oak Street bus stop. She slowly wandered home. She
hoped that her mom would be home from work. Bianca was eager to show o her new
handbag. She also wanted to share her day. Hmm, she thought, the front door is
open. I guess mom got home early today.
Bianca pulled open the screen door and let herself in. Hello, Mom. Im
home, she yelled.
Oh, no! Mom! What happened?
Bianca? her mom called out. Im so glad youre home. Please come back to
the laundry room.
Sure, Mom, Bianca answered. She wondered why her mother wanted her in
the laundry room.
As Bianca walked through the kitchen, she saw her mother sprawled out on
the oor of the laundry room. Her stomach dropped. Fear crept in. Oh, no! Mom!
What happened? Bianca questioned in a worried voice. She hurried over to
her mother.
Now stay calm, Bianca. Im okay but I do need your help. I fell while I was
putting the laundry detergent on the shelf. Te water from the dogs dish must have
spilled out. I slid onto the oor and banged my leg and knee, Biancas mother replied
in a calm voice.
Continuing, Biancas mother said, I think I may have broken it. My leg hurts
when I try to move it. I cant get up. I think its best that I dont try.
What can I do, Mom? Bianca asked excitedly. I want to help you.
Remember when we talked about accidents and emergencies? Now is the time
to use what we talked about, her mother replied.
Im okay but I do need your help.
Biancas face and body language showed how she felt about seeing her mother sprawled
on the oor. She was:
a. tired b. stressed c. delighted
Accidents or emergencies that involve our loved ones may make us feel ___________.
What are two things Maria and Bianca did before leaving Frooties Fresh
Fruit Bar?
What was Bianca eager to show her mother?
Why was Biancas mother sprawled on the oor of the laundry room?
How are conversations and plans about what to do in case of accidents and
emergencies helpful?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
911 the emergency phone number to call for help
Bianca knew to call 911 in an emergency.
medications drugs used to treat an illness
A list of their medications was posted on the refrigerator.
contact numbers a list of people and their phone numbers
to call in case of an emergency.
Family contact numbers were written on a pink index card.
examination a study of a patient to determine what is wrong
An examination will be needed.
X-rays a special medical photo to determine if there are broken bones or
internal problems
Te X-rays would be taken at the hospital.
photo identication a legal document with a picture
Ms. Gonzales needed her photo identication.
insurance card a card that shows a persons insurance company
She needed her insurance card for the hospital.
describe to tell the details about how someone or something
looks or feels
Bianca was asked to describe her mothers condition.
Vocabulary
An Important Phone Call | Page 85
An Important Phone Call
14
Calling 911 for Help
Bianca took the emergency instructions down from the refrigerator.
Bianca knew immediately what her mother meant. Tey had often talked
about accidents and emergencies and what to do. In fact, her mother had said it
was so important that she had posted the emergency instructions on the side of the
refrigerator next to the wall phone. Under each of their names, she had listed that
persons medications, their doctors names and phone numbers and the insurance
information. Next to the instructions was a pink index card with the names of the
family members and a contact number for each.
Bianca took the emergency instructions down from the refrigerator. Mom,
do you mean I have to do all this myself? Bianca asked nervously.
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Maria spotted her mothers purse.
Yes, Bianca, Im afraid so. I need medical help and an ambulance to get me to
the hospital. I feel sure that I will need an examination as well as X-rays. Now before
you call, please get me my wallet. I have to make certain that I have the necessary
information for the hospital.
Next to a grocery bag on the counter, Bianca spotted her mothers purse.
She brought it to her mother. Her mother pulled out her wallet and looked through
the papers.
Tank heaven! Here is my license for photo identication and my insurance
card. Now you can make that call, Biancas mother instructed.
All I need to do is follow the instructions on the paper.
Bianca felt uneasy, but also quite grown up. She thought, Mom is counting
on me. I can do this. All I need to do is follow the instructions on the paper.
Bianca read the rst step on the paper. She picked up the receiver and called
911. A voice answered almost immediately. Yes, how can I help?
Bianca tried to speak clearly. We need help, please. My mother has had an
accident. She fell. She cannot get up. She thinks she needs to go to the hospital.
A calm voice said, First, you need to tell me some important information.
What is your name? What is your address? What is your phone number?
Bianca responded to each question clearly. Ten the voice asked, Can you
describe what happened?
Bianca repeated what her mom had told her about the accident. She had not
quite nished when the voice interrupted to say that help was on its way.
Can you describe what happened?
Bianca found the emergency instructions posted on the refrigerator. Her face showed
that she felt:
a. anger b. joy c. concern
Emergencies and accidents can be very upsetting to us. When we have to handle them,
we usually feel ________________.
What phone number is the emergency help phone number?
Where had Biancas mother posted the information about what to do in case of
an accident or emergency?
How can it be helpful to post family emergency information in a
special location?
Why are photo identication and insurance information important when going
to the hospital?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
sirens horns that make a loud, piercing sound
Bianca heard the sound of sirens outside of her home.
gurneys stretchers with wheels used for carrying patients
Ms. Gonzales was placed on a gurney.
approached moved closer to someone or something
Several uniformed people approached the house.
identication card a card used to prove who someone is
Police Ocer Brown showed her identication card.
emergency medical technicians (EMTs) people trained
to give medical help
Ocer Brown introduced two large EMTs.
vital signs physical signs that show life; such as a heartbeat
One of the EMTs checked Ms. Gonzales vital signs.
efciently performed tasks in a capable way without waste
Te EMTs eciently completed the examination.
transport to carry someone from one place to another
Te EMTs secured Ms. Gonzales for transport.
Vocabulary
Sirens and Gurneys | Page 91
Sirens and Gurneys
15
Dealing with an Emergency
Im Ofcer Brown. Is this the Gonzales home?
It seemed like only a few minutes had passed before Bianca heard the sound
of sirens. She rushed to the front door. An emergency medical truck and a police car
had pulled up in front of the home. Several uniformed people quickly approached
the door.
One of the woman police ocers showed Bianca her identication card. She
said, Im Ocer Brown and this is my partner. Is this the Gonzales home? Did you
call 911?
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Ofcer Brown introduced the two large male EMTs.
Yes, I called about my mother. She fell and hurt herself. She told me to call
911 for help, Bianca replied nervously.
Ocer Brown introduced her partner and the two large male emergency
medical technicians (EMTs) who were dressed in tan shirts and grey pants. As they
entered the home, Ocer Brown turned to Bianca and asked, Where is
your mother?
Im in here, Biancas mother called out in a pained voice.
Following her voice, they found Biancas mother still sprawled on the oor.
EMT Ofcer Jones went to work immediately.
EMT Ocer Jones opened his instrument bag and went to work immediately.
While he checked Ms. Gonzales vital signs, his partner returned to the truck to get a
gurney. He rolled the gurney up to the house and into the living room. Bianca watched
as the two EMTs quietly and eciently completed their examination.
Ocer Jones said, Ms. Gonzales, it does seem that you may have a broken
leg. A visit to the Emergency Room for X-rays and treatment will be necessary. Before
we go, Ocer Brown needs to ll out some paperwork.
Carefully and very gently, the EMTs placed Ms. Gonzales on the gurney.
Tey secured her for transport and packed up their equipment to prepare
for departure.
Police Ocer Brown asked, Are you well enough to answer some questions
or should I ask your daughter?
Biancas mom murmured, Yes. Ill be able to answer your questions.
Bianca stood in the background watching her mother carefully. She was very
upset. She recalled telling Maria earlier, Maybe I just make up my mind to ignore
some things that I dont want to deal with. She could not ignore this situation.
She was very worried about her mother. It was obvious that they were going to take her
mother away in the EMT truck. Bianca couldnt help thinking, What about me?
I need to go with her!
Bianca stood in the background watching her mother carefully.
Bianca saw her mother sprawled on the laundry room oor. Biancas face showed that
she felt like:
a. crying b. laughing c. sleeping
In stressful times, we may feel like ___________________ even though we have to be
ready to help make decisions.
What two kinds of vehicles arrived at Biancas home after her 911 call?
What color uniform were the emergency medical technicians wearing?
What did the EMTs do for Ms. Gonzales?
Why couldnt Bianca ignore her mothers emergency?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
stressful causing mental or emotional strain, upsetting
Te emergency situation with her mother was
stressful for Bianca.
Emergency Room part of a hospital for people who
need immediate care
Ms. Gonzales was taken to the Emergency Room.
equipment tools or supplies used for a special purpose
Te EMTs packed up their equipment for departure.
cast a support often used on broken arms or legs to
keep bones in place
Bianca wondered if her mother would need
a cast on her leg.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
A Stressful Time | Page 97
The EMT ofcers stood next to Ms. Gonzales.

he EMT ocers stood next to Ms. Gonzales. Police Ocer Brown put her
pen away and attached the completed forms to her clipboard. Tey appeared ready to
go. However, Ms. Gonzales was not quite ready.
Ms. Gonzales was like any other mother. She was concerned more about her
daughter than herself. She realized that Bianca was becoming very upset. She said,
Bianca, call Aunt Benita and tell her what happened to me. Since she is only a few
minutes away, Im sure she will drive you to the hospital.
T
A Stressful Time
16
Visit to the Emergency Room
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Aunt Benita rushed up to her sister on the gurney.
Bianca was relieved to call her favorite aunt. Within a few minutes Aunt
Benita pulled into the driveway and jumped out of her van. She rushed up to her sister
on the gurney and began talking nonstop to her. Why didnt you call me earlier? she
asked almost out of breath. What happened? What can I do?
Everythings under control, Benita. Bianca did a ne job, Ms. Gonzales said
while smiling at Bianca. We had practiced what to do in an emergency many times,
just in case something happened. I am so proud of her for doing everything that was
needed. And, of course, she wants to go to the hospital to be there with me.
One of the EMT ofcers got in the back with Ms. Gonzales.
Aunt Benita nodded her head and said, So do I. Turning to Bianca she
continued, Lets ride to the hospital together in my van. Tat way we can nd out
what the doctors say about Mom. We can also wait there to take her home.
Te EMT team interrupted, Are you ready now, Ms. Gonzales? If so, lets go.
Tey rolled the gurney up to the doors of the EMT truck. Both Bianca and
her Aunt Benita followed. Tey watched as Ms. Gonzales was placed into the truck.
One of the EMT ocers got in the back with Ms. Gonzales and the other EMT ocer
got behind the wheel. Without any more delay, they headed o to the hospital.
Oh, Aunt Benita, Bianca said beginning to cry. I am so upset. Mom may
have broken her leg. She was lying on the oor when I got home. Do you think she
will need a cast? What a day this has been, she continued with tears streaming down
her face.
Now, lets stay calm, Aunt Benita replied while giving Bianca a hug. Your
mother is in good hands. Te doctors will take ne care of her. We will have time to
talk about your day while your mother is being taken care of, Aunt Benita continued
in her soft and soothing voice.
Your mother is in good hands.
Bianca thought that she might not be able to go with her mother to the hospital.
Her face showed that she was:
a. happy b. delighted c. unsettled
Family members like to be together to support each other during times of emergency.
We often feel _______________ when emergencies and accidents occur.
Who did Ms. Gonzales tell Bianca to call?
What did Aunt Benita tell Bianca?
Why did Ms. Gonzales ride in the emergency truck to the hospital?
Why was Bianca upset?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
recreational something done for pleasure or relaxation
rather than work
Maria enjoyed her recreational time doing word searches
and watching cartoons.
growling making a low, deep noise that shows anger
Scruy began growling at the mailman.
commotion confusion, lots of noise or activity
Scruy caused a big commotion about the mailmans
delivery of the mail.
convinced certain
Scruy was not convinced that the mailman was a friend.
junk mail advertisements or papers mailed without request
or permission
Maria said, It looks like we got a lot of junk mail.
personal mail letters or postcards written especially
for someone
Maria asked if the large envelope with fancy writing
was personal mail.
Vocabulary
A Day Off | Page 103
A Day O
17
Recreational Time
Maria and Scruffy sat together.
It was Saturday. Maria and Scruy, her much loved dog, sat together on the
living room couch. Maria was sort of watching cartoons, sort of doing word searches
in her new word search book and sort of patting Scruy. O in the background, she
heard her mom using the mixer to make the brownies she said they would have for
dessert after dinner.
novella
Stop barking! Maria yelled at Scruffy.
Suddenly, Scruys ears perked up. She jumped up and began growling as she
raced to the door. Maria also jumped up. By now, Scruy was barking furiously as she
stood by the door. Maria peeked out of the window next to the door to try to see what
was upsetting Scruy.
Scruy. Its all right. Stop barking! Maria yelled at Scruy. Its the
mailman. He is our neighborhood friend. He is not dangerous. He is only doing
his job.
Maria collected the mail and walked into the kitchen with it.
Scruy ran back and forth from the door making lots of noise and a big
commotion. She did not seem convinced that the mailman was a friend. She heard
the mailman open the mailbox and drop the mail in. Scruy continued barking as the
mailman made his way down the walkway and away from the house.
Maria collected the mail from the mailbox and walked into the kitchen with
it. Scruy, looking very pleased with herself, tagged along with her. She seemed to have
forgotten the mailman.
Mom, the mailman was just here. I guess you knew that. Scruy always barks
when he comes, Maria commented.
I think Scruy feels that barking at the mailman is part of her job to protect
us. Looks like we got a lot of junk mail. Is there anything personal in the pile? Marias
mother asked.
What about this, Mom? Maria asked holding up a rather large envelope with
their names on it in fancy writing. Is this personal mail?
Maria asked, Is this personal mail?
Maria got up to look out of the window when Scruy barked. Her face showed that
she was:
a. curious b. tired c. delighted
Unusual or unexpected noises may make us feel _____________ to nd out the cause.
What kind of pet did Maria have?
What did Scruy do when the mailman came to the house?
What did Marias mother say was the reason for Scruys reaction to
the mailman?
What is the dierence between junk mail and personal mail?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
formal a special event that requires special clothing to t an important
occasion.
Te invitation invited them to a formal wedding.
event a special and exciting social occasion
Te invitation invited them to a very special event.
advertisement an ad, a public announcement (in newspapers,
yers, TV, radio, internet) for the purpose of selling something
Maria said, I wonder what this is? It does not
look like an advertisement.
pleaded ask in an insistent way for something to be done
Maria pleaded with her mother to take care of Scruy.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
The Invitation | Page 109
I wonder what this is, Mom? Maria asked.
Marias mom nished putting the brownie batter in the pan. She opened
the oven door and slid the pan onto the middle shelf. Maria, meantime, was looking
over the envelope with the fancy writing on it.
I wonder what this is, Mom? Maria asked. It doesnt look like a bill.
It doesnt look like an advertisement. And look, Mom, it has both of our names on it!
Te Invitation
18
An Invitation to a Formal Social Event
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Can I open it? Please?
Marias mom sat down at the dining room table with Maria. She sorted
through all the junk mail looking for anything else of interest.
Marias excitement was growing. Come on, Mom. Lets open this one.
I almost never get my name on an envelope. Can I open it? Please? she pleaded.
Let me see the envelope, Maria. Hmm. It does look interesting.
What do you think it is? Marias mother teased while she turned the envelope
in her hands.
Anything that looks so pretty should be opened very carefully.
Mom. Please! I dont know what it could be. I bet its something nice because
it looks so pretty. Look, the stamp is even a special pretty one with owers on it,
Maria remarked.
I think that anything that looks so pretty should be opened very carefully.
We wouldnt want to damage whatever is inside. Ten Marias mom suggested,
Why dont you get the letter opener?
Returning with the letter opener, Maria said breathlessly, Ill be careful,
Mom. Let me do it!
After Maria carefully slit open the top edge of the heavy envelope, she pulled
out a beautiful card with fancy printing on it. As she did, a smaller card with a
stamped, self-addressed envelope fell out on the table.
Well, well! Mom exclaimed. I think we have something special here.
Perhaps we will treat ourselves to a warm brownie while we read and think it over.
I think we have something special here.
Maria enjoyed nding the pretty card inside the heavy envelope. Her face showed:
a. disappointment b. discouragement c. pleasure
We usually have a feeling of _________________ when we receive invitations to
special events and happy occasions.
What was Marias mom baking in the oven?
Write the sentence that describes the stamp on the envelope.
Why did Marias mother suggest the use of a letter opener?
What might have made Marias mother describe the mail as something special?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
invitation a printed note that encourages someone to
go somewhere
Mother said, Tis is Rosas wedding invitation.
reception a formal party to celebrate a special event
like a wedding
Maria was excited to be invited to the wedding and
the reception.
RSVP to respond whether or not you will be able to attend
an event
Marias mother said that guests RSVP by returning
the little card sent with the invitation.
courage acting in a brave manner
Maria did not think she had the courage to ask
Alan to go with her to the wedding and the reception.
Vocabulary
Talking It Over | Page 115
Talking It Over
19
Mental Preparation for a Social Event
Mom, please, lets talk about this card.
Guess well have to wait for the brownies, Mom said. Tey are still
much too hot to eat.
I can wait for the brownies, Mom, but please, lets talk about this card.
Look here, Mom. I see cousin Rosas name. And this looks like Aunt Rosa and Uncle
Robertos names, Maria remarked.
novella
This is Rosas wedding invitation.
You are so right, Maria. Tis is Rosas wedding invitation. We are invited to
see Rosa and Tomas get married. We are also invited to a big party after the wedding
that is called the reception. We will need to send this little card back to them to let
them know if we are planning to go.
Oh, how exciting. Can we, Mom? I hope so. I would love to see Rosa get
married. She will look so beautiful all dressed up. And a party after the wedding will
be so much fun, Maria said with enthusiasm.
Lets check the calendar.
Well, I have to say that I really would like to go. Lets check the calendar and
make certain we have nothing else we have to do that Saturday, Mother suggested.
Maria brought the calendar and set it on the table. She located the wedding
date. She sighed happily when she saw nothing written in. Tank goodness, Mom,
we have nothing else planned.
Maria, there is one other important thing to decide before we send in the
RSVP card. We each can bring a guest. I dont think Ill bring anyone. Is there
someone you would like to share this special day with? I think you will have even more
fun if you invite someone to go with you, Mom suggested.
I never thought about that. Should it be a girl or a boy? I could ask Bianca.
I bet she would say yes in a minute. Te only boy I can talk to is Alan. But I dont have
the courage to ask him. What would I say? What if he said no? What if he said yes?
We can each bring a guest.
Maria had to make a decision about inviting Alan or Bianca to join her at the wedding
reception. Her face showed that she felt:
a. bored b. uncertain c. angry
It can be dicult to decide which friend to ask to join us for a special occasion.
We may feel ______________________ about who to invite.
Why did Marias mother say they could not eat the brownies while they opened
the mail?
Te card was a special invitation to what event?
Why did Maria and her mother need to return the little card?
Why did Maria decide not to invite Alan to join her for the wedding and
the reception?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
socializing behaving in a friendly way to others
Wedding receptions provide opportunities
for socializing.
responsibilities having special jobs to do, being accountable to somebody
or something
Being a young adult meant that Alan had
new responsibilities.
independence free to do certain things on their own without somebody
else telling them what to do
Alan loved the feeling of independence he had
from riding the bus to work.
routines the usual way jobs or tasks are done that follow
a pattern
Alans work routines were not strange to him anymore.
lay-up shot a basketball shot made close to the basket,
usually one-handed
Tomas dribbled the ball in for a lay-up shot.
dribble to bounce a ball with the hands
With Tomas help, Alan learned to dribble the ball.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Saturday Fun | Page 121
One of his favorite people was his neighbor friend, Tomas.
Alan loved his job and everything related to it. He enjoyed the new
responsibilities that came with being a young adult. Te bus ride to work gave him
a feeling of independence. Te work routines were not so strange to him any more.
He had made some new friends, too. Alan always liked being with people. One of his
favorite people was his neighbor friend, Tomas.
Saturday Fun
20
Socializing with a Neighbor Friend
novella
Lets shoot a few, Tomas suggested.
Saturday mornings were special to Alan. He and Tomas always had an early
morning one-on-one basketball game. Tey met at Tomas house because he had a
driveway and a basketball hoop over the garage.
Alan hurried through breakfast. He grabbed his towel and dashed out the back
door. He saw that Tomas was already out practicing lay-up shots.
Hey, man. Whats up? Tomas grinned as Alan crossed over to the driveway.
Lets shoot a few, Tomas suggested as he dribbled the ball in for a lay-up shot.
Te hours went by quickly as together they passed, dribbled and shot the basketball.
With Tomas help, Alan learned how to dribble and shoot baskets.
Alan had not been any good at basketball before Tomas encouraged him to
play. Te operations on his feet and his special shoes had always been his excuse for
not playing.
Tomas said, O.K. Alan, so you have a little problem with your feet. So what?
We all have some problem. Look at what you do have. Youre tall. Youve got two good
hands. So lets play.
With Tomas help, Alan learned how to dribble and shoot baskets. After a
while, Alan even surprised himself by how well he played.
Te mornings practice went too fast. Before Alan knew it, Tomas was
toweling himself dry and reminding Alan that there would be no basketball games for
the next few weeks.
Remember, Alan, I expect you to be at my wedding and my reception next
Saturday. You are important to me so dont let me down. Why dont you bring your
friend, Jerome, with you? You guys will have a great time. I promise! Tomas gave Alan
a high ve and then he ran into his house.
Alan thought back. Oh, yes. Tomas wedding. Now I remember. We got
invitations a while ago. I almost forgot.
Remember, Alan, I expect you to be at my wedding and reception.
Tomas encouraged Alan to play basketball. Tomas face and body language showed that
he felt:
a. pleased b. angry c. disappointed
When people encourage us and help us to learn to do new things, we usually feel
_______________________.
What did Alan like about his job?
What two boys played basketball on Saturdays?
What did Tomas tell Alan about his problem with his feet?
Why wouldnt the boys be able to play basketball the next few Saturdays?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
bride woman who is about to marry
Rosa will make a beautiful bride.
groom man who is about to marry
Alans neighborhood friend will be the groom.
observers people who watch something happen
Guests at a wedding are invited to be observers
of the ceremony.
opportunity chance, especially one that oers a
kind advantage
A wedding reception oers guests the opportunity to
celebrate the wedding couples new life together.
details a small part of something
Alans mother promised to help Alan and Jerome with
the details of how to dress and behave at the wedding
and the reception.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
Making Plans | Page 127
Alan and his mother discussed Tomas wedding invitation.
Alans workweek passed by even more quickly than usual. Troughout the
week, he and his mother discussed Tomas wedding invitation. Alan had hoped that
his parents would be able to go with him. He was disappointed and a bit worried when
that did not turn out to be possible.
His mother reminded him, You know that Tomas will be disappointed if you
dont attend. Remember that Tomas suggested that you ask Jerome to go. Why dont
you? It will be fun for both of you.
Making Plans
21
Preparing to Attend a Wedding
novella
If I ask Jerome, will you coach us both?
Hey, Mom, thats a terric idea. You know I dont want to disappoint Tomas.
But I feel funny going to a reception alone. I have no idea what to say or do. Will you
help me with that? If I ask Jerome, will you coach us both? Alan asked.
You know that I will, his mother said seriously. Actually, weddings are
planned to make guests feel comfortable. Usually, the future bride and groom spend
months carefully planning their wedding and reception. You and Jerome will be two of
many observers. It will be an opportunity to join with the wedding couples family and
friends to celebrate their new life together.
I think Ill call Jerome to make sure that he can go with me.
What shall I wear? What if I dont know anyone else? Alan questioned.
I think Ill call Jerome now to make sure that he can go with me.
Great! Alans mom agreed. Some of the neighbors will also be going so you
will know them. At the reception, you will nd your name printed on a card on one of
the tables. Tats where you will sit during the reception. I bet Tomas has picked out a
place for you that will make you feel comfortable. Why dont you invite Jerome over to
our house so we can discuss the details together?
Jerome is going to ride his bike over here now to talk about it with us, Alan
said to his mother. Im so glad that he wants to go with me.
Ive been thinking, Mom. I dont want to wear these monster shoes to the
wedding. I prefer to wear my other shoes. Will my dress slacks and a jacket look okay?
Shall I tell Jerome to wear dress slacks and a jacket, too? Alan questioned, getting
caught up in the wedding excitement.
Sounds good to me, Alan. One more thing, his mother added, smiling,
If you dont want Tomas to think we sent our shaggy dog with Jerome, you had better
get a haircut.
Will my dress slacks and a jacket look okay?
Jerome said that he would be able to go to the wedding and the reception with Alan.
Alans face and body language showed that he felt:
a. upset b. angry c. joyful
Our smiles and body language tell others that we feel ________________________
about something nice that has happened or about some good news we
have heard.
Who did Alan decide to ask to go to the wedding and reception with him?
What did Alan ask his mother to do?
Why did Alan feel that he and Jerome needed to be coached for the wedding
and reception?
Why did Alans mother tease him about being a shaggy dog?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
hola Spanish for hello
Alan greeted Jos by saying hola.
mi amigo Spanish for my male friend
Jos replied, Hola, mi amigo.
Cmo est? Spanish for How are you?

Jos always asked,
Cmo est?
Cuba a small island country south of Florida
Alan knew that Jos had come from Cuba to the
United States.
fee a sum of money given to somebody for a service
Alan paid Jos the fee for his haircut.
tip - money given to show thanks for a service performed
Alan had included a tip with the fee for his haircut.
gracias Spanish word for thank you
Jos said, Gracias.
adis Spanish word for good-bye
As Alan left the barbershop, Jos called, Adis, mi amigo.
Vocabulary
Mi Amigo, Jos | Page 133
Mi Amigo, Jos
22
A Visit to the Barbershop
Hola, amigo.
Alan was up and out early on Saturday. He wanted to get to his friend
Joss barbershop before it got too crowded. Everyone in the neighborhood got haircuts
from Jos. Saturdays were very busy days there.
Hola, amigo, Jos called out as Alan entered his shop. Jos called out as Alan entered his shop. called out as Alan entered his shop.
Cmo est, Alan? , Alan?

Joss smile always made Alan smile back.
Hola, Jos, Alan answered, proud that he could speak Spanish. Jos, Alan answered, proud that he could speak Spanish. , Alan answered, proud that he could speak Spanish.
novella
Jose turned the chair to invite Alan to sit.
Alan knew that Jos had come from Cuba. He didnt know where Cuba was
but he gured that everyone must speak Spanish there.
You can be next, mi amigo. Wed better do an especially good job today.
I hear you are going to see Toms get married! Jos turned the chair to invite Alan Toms get married! Jos turned the chair to invite Alan get married! Jos turned the chair to invite Alan
to sit.
Alan wasnt surprised that Jos knew about the wedding. He seemed to
know everything that was happening in the neighborhood. Everyone was Joss
friend. In fact, the barbershop walls were covered with pictures of neighborhood kids
who had graduated from local schools. He had also framed newspaper clippings of
neighborhood friends who had a story or picture in the paper. Jos loved everybody.
It seemed that he was well loved in return.
Jos always talked while he cut his customers hair.
How about our amigo, Toms, getting married to that beautiful Rosa?
Wont they make a ne couple? Jos asked.
Alan knew Jos did not expect him to answer. Jos always talked while he cut
his customers hair.
A few minutes later, Jos asked, Well, what do you think? Did I do a good
job? Jos looked at Alan. Jos did seem to want an answer to this question.
Alan looked at himself in the mirror in front of the chair. Ten Jos gave him
a hand mirror so Alan was able to see the back of his hair.
It looks great, Jos, Alan answered as he took o the cape and got out of the
chair. Smiling, he handed Jos the fee for the razor cut plus the tip that he had counted
out at home.
Gracias. Adis, mi amigo. See you soon! Jos called out as Alan turned to
leave the barbershop.
It looks great, Jos.
Jos was Alans much-liked neighborhood barber. His face showed he was:
a. sad b. annoyed c. happy
We usually feel ____________________ when we are around people that like us and
make us feel like a friend.
What was the name of Alans barber?
What language does Alan try to speak with him?
What makes Alan think that everyone likes Jos?
Why did Alan give Jos the fee and a tip?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
preparations work done to plan something or make someone
or something ready
Maria looked over her preparations with pleasure.
appropriate suitable for the event or situation
Maria and her mom talked about appropriate clothes
to wear to the wedding.

wedding ceremony a formal event to celebrate the marriage
of two people
Maria was very excited to be a guest for the
wedding ceremony.
zipped moved very fast
Te week before the wedding zipped by.
dashed hurried
Maria dashed to the window to check the weather.
insistent continue to ask for or demand something
Scruy was insistent that Maria pay attention to her.
Vocabulary
Getting Ready | Page 139
Getting Ready
23
Preparations for a Wedding
Bianca screamed with delight as she accepted Marias invitation.
Maria really wanted to ask Alan to go with her to the wedding and the
reception but she was too frightened to ask him. Instead, she asked Bianca.
Of course Ill go. Tis is the most exciting thing to happen to me this year!
Bianca screamed with delight as she accepted Marias invitation. I just love dressing
up. I love weddings. Dont you think weddings are the dreamiest thing?
novella
They window-shopped for a gift.
Over the next few weeks, it seemed that the wedding and the reception
were all that Maria talked about at home and with Bianca. Bianca and Maria talked
about dresses, about shoes, and about a gift. Tey tried on dresses and shoes. Tey
window-shopped for a gift. Mom and Maria talked about manners, about appropriate
clothes, about transportation and about the wedding ceremony. It was all so exciting.
Maria held up her favorite dress in front of the mirror.
Te days zipped by. Suddenly, it was the Saturday of the wedding. Maria
woke up early. She dashed to the window. Mom, she yelled. Te sun is shining.
Te wedding can be outside in the garden like Rosa wanted. I cant wait. I bet Rosa has
already started to get ready.
Maria held up her favorite dress in front of the mirror. Her new high-heeled
shoes were placed by her chair. A necklace and earrings were carefully laid out on the
dresser. Maria looked over her preparations with pleasure. Now, I have plenty of time
to get ready, she thought.
All this time Scruy had been on the bed watching Maria. She didnt like
being ignored. She jumped down from Marias bed. She circled the room stopping
at the chair. She looked up at Maria, grabbed one of Marias new shoes, and
ran downstairs.
Scruy, you drop that shoe! Maria screamed as she chased after her.
Scruy is letting you know that she needs your attention, Marias mom
explained. And dont forget, Scruy needs to be walked.
Oh, Mom, couldnt you take her out this morning? Maria moaned.
No, Maria. You promised that you would take care of her when we bought
her. She depends on you.
Oh, Mom, couldnt you take her out this morning?
Maria really wanted her mother to walk Scruy. Her body language and face showed
that Maria was:
a. crying b. laughing c. pleading
When people really want something or want an action taken and are insistent about
asking, we say that they are ________________________.
Who did Maria invite to go with her to the wedding and reception?
What day was the wedding?
Why did Scruy take one of Marias shoes?
Why did Marias mom tell Maria that she would not take care of Scruy
for her?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
formal wear clothing suitable for a special occasion
such as a wedding
Several young men dressed in formal wear greeted
them in front of the church.
ushers people who escort guests to their seats.
Juan was one of the ushers for the wedding ceremony.
gasped took in breath loudly and suddenly
Oh, Maria, how beautiful everything is! gasped Bianca.
altar a table where religious ceremonies are performed
Te future bride and groom stood in front of the altar.
minister a member of a church who performs religious duties
such as marrying people
A minister appeared and stepped up to the altar.
best man a man chosen by the bridegroom to help carry out important
duties during the wedding ceremony
Te groom and the best man took their place.
draped a piece of fabric like a veil that hangs over something
Her veil softly draped over her face and her long
black hair.
Vocabulary
The Ceremony | Page 145
Te Ceremony
24
Attending a Wedding
Im Juan, one of Tomas ushers.
Bianca and Maria arrived at the church early. Tey did not want to miss
anything. It was a bright and sunny day, perfect for a wedding. Several young men
dressed in formal wear greeted them in front of the church.
One of the young men walked over and said, Hello. Im Juan, one of Tomas
ushers. Please come with me to the garden area. He led the girls to the garden behind
the church.
Bianca looked at Maria and whispered, Gosh, hes handsome!
novella
Oh, Maria, look how beautiful everything is!
Oh, Maria, look how beautiful everything is! Bianca gasped in wonder as
they entered the garden. Tere were plants and white owers everywhere. Te chairs
with white, too. Te chairs for the guests were divided into two groups. A long white
carpet ran down the center between the two sets of chairs and ended at the altar
draped with a white satin cloth.
Juan turned to the girls and asked, Are you with Rosas family or
Tomas family?
Maria said, Rosa is my cousin. I am part of her family.
Juan led them to seats on the right side where the girls joined a number of
other guests.
The groom and the best man took their place next to the minister.
Te girls looked around enjoying everything. Tey were so excited. Tey
forgot to be nervous. Te guests quickly lled up the chairs on both sides of the aisle.
Everyone was chatting and admiring the way the garden was set up for the wedding.
Musicians began to play soft music. A minister walked over to the altar. Te groom
and his best man took their place next to the minister. Te whispering guests began to
quiet down. People turned around as the Wedding March began.
Te guests gasped in admiration when Rosa appeared with her father, Roberto.
She was a glowing picture of the perfect bride. Te train of her long white gown
trailed behind her. Her veil softly draped her face and her long black hair. All eyes
were glued on Rosa as she gracefully marched down the white carpet to join her
soon-to-be husband.
Te wedding moment had nally arrived.
The guests gasped in admiration when Rosa appeared with her father.
Maria and Bianca admired the beauty of the garden arrangement for the wedding.
Teir faces showed their feeling of:
a. horror b. wonder c. confusion
Especially beautiful people, places or things often give us a feeling
of __________________________.
What was the weather for the wedding day?
Find the sentence that tells how Bianca described the usher who took them
back to the garden for the wedding.
Maria and Bianca were guests for which family?
Why did both girls gasp in wonder when they saw the wedding location
and Rosa?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:
Vocabulary
socializing behaving in a friendly way with others
Maria and Bianca were a little nervous about
socializing at the reception.
announcement a public statement giving people news
Te minister made an announcement,
I now pronounce you man and wife.
romantic an excited feeling of love
Have you ever seen anything so romantic?
Bianca questioned.
receiving line a group of people who stand in a line to
greet people at a wedding
Maria and Bianca went to greet the bride and
groom who were on the receiving line.
bridesmaids girls or women who help the bride on the
wedding day
Te bridesmaids were standing by the bride and groom.
Vocabulary
A Surprise at the Wedding Reception | Page 151
A Surprise at the Wedding Reception
25
Socializing with Guests
You may kiss the bride.
Maria and Bianca both agreed that the wedding was over much too
quickly. Maria felt goose bumps as the minister ended the service and made the
announcement, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.
Oh, Maria. Have you ever seen anything so romantic? Bianca asked as she
held her hand to her heart. When Tomas kissed her, I thought I would die. Bianca
rambled on.
Maria nodded in agreement. She was smiling and crying at the same time.
She knew that her tears were not sad tears but tears of joy.
novella
Is that Alan I see on the grooms side?
As Maria and Bianca watched the couple walk down the aisle, Maria thought,
Is that Alan I see on the grooms side? And is that Jerome next to him? Can it really
be them?
Te guests were beginning to leave. Te bride and groom were now standing
in the receiving line. Teir parents, the bridesmaids and the ushers were next to them.
Te guests were shaking hands with the groom and kissing the bride.
Come on, Bianca. I think we should congratulate Rosa and Tomas,
Maria suggested.
This is like magic. I didnt invite Alan and here he is!
As the girls joined the line, Alan spotted Maria. He was surprised to see her at
Tomas wedding. Taking Jerome by the arm, Alan guided him through the crowd over
to Maria and Bianca.
Hi, Maria. What a surprise to see you here at Tomas wedding. I didnt know
you knew Tomas, Alan said as he smiled at the two girls.
Maria beamed with pleasure at seeing Alan and Jerome. She said, Hi, Alan.
Hi, Jerome. I dont know Tomas, yet. I am Rosas cousin.
Maria thought, Tis is like magic. I didnt invite Alan and here he is!
Bianca stood watching Alan, Jerome and Maria. She was a bit uncomfortable.
She knew Alan from work but she did not know Jerome. Maria often talked about
them both.
Alan surprised Bianca. He turned to her with a smile and said, Hi Bianca.
Tis is my best friend, Jerome.
Never at a loss for words, Bianca turned to Jerome and said, Hi. Im Bianca,
Marias friend from work. Im pleased to meet you. Will you be at the reception too?
Jerome and Alan nodded in agreement. Surprising himself, Jerome spoke up
and added, Great! Now Ill have someone else to talk to during the reception.
Now well have friends we can talk to during the reception.
Maria saw that Alan and Jerome were also at the wedding. Her body language and
facial expression showed her:
a. surprise b. horror c. disappointment
When something unexpected happens, our face and body may show
____________________ before we put our feelings into words.
Find the sentences that the minister spoke to end the wedding ceremony.
What did Bianca think was so romantic?
Why did Maria feel it was magic seeing Alan at the wedding?
Why did Bianca feel a bit uncomfortable when Alan and Jerome came over to
say hello?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Questions:

Do The Right Thing

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Do The Right Thing

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By June Stride, Ed. D.

Illustrated by Anthony Zammit

Cmo est? Spanish for How are you?

Cmo est, Alan? , Alan?

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