Lesson Plan - A Look Back at 2023

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know.

• lunar  
• engulfed

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them identify which of the news events they think were most important.

1. Why are countries interested in exploring the moon’s south pole?
According to the article, countries are interested in exploring the moon’s south pole because it may be a source of water. The article explains that “the craters in the area are filled with frozen water that might be used by astronauts for future missions.”
^{(RI.4.1 Text Evidence)}

2. Based on the article, why was this summer’s wildfire on Maui able to spread so easily?
The article suggests that the fire was able to spread quickly because “dry conditions and strong gusts of wind fueled the flames.”
^{(RI.4.5 Cause and Effect)}

3. What are two record-setting accomplishments described in the article?
Sample response: Greta Gerwig and Taylor Swift both had record-setting accomplishments in 2023. Gerwig directed Barbie, which earned more money than any other film directed by a woman. Swift was the first musician to become a billionaire from only her songs and performing.
^{(RI.4.9 Integrate Information)}

FEATURED SKILL: Reading Comprehension
Share the skill builder “What a Year!” to have students reflect on what they liked about and learned from the article.
^{(RI.4.1 Demonstrate Understanding)}