Previews
Previews are introductions to reading selections based on the work of Dr. Michael Graves. They generally consist of three paragraphs:
- The first paragraph is designed to capture readers' interest and provide
a link between a familiar topic and the topic of the text, this part
of the preview ends with questions designed to engage students in a
brief discussion related to the theme or topic of the text.
- For narratives, Paragraph 2 provides a description of the characters,
the setting, the point of view, and a description of the plot up to
the climax. It also may include a brief overview of the author. For
expository texts, this paragraph names the source of the selection and
describes the major points made in the order in which they occur.
- Paragraph 3 gives students a question to answer or directions to
follow as they read the selection.
Sample Preview
Preview of "Chrysanthemums" by John Steinbeck
We all have roles that we adopt as students, children, siblings, etc.
How important to you are the roles that others place you in, and how do
they affect your perception of yourself? Have you ever given someone a
gift that you took time in choosing and found out later that they didn't
appreciate your thoughtfulness? How did that make you feel about the person
and yourself?
In John Steinbeck's short story, "Chrysanthemums," Elise Allen
is a thirty-something housewife who is married to a successful businessman
rancher named Henry. Henry Allen manages the couple's Salinas, CA orchard
and steer business, while Elise directs her energies into the growth and
care of prize chrysanthemums. Through the use of third person narrative
and dialogue, Steinbeck conveys the characters of Elise, Henry and an
unexpected "visitor."
In the beginning of the story, Elise is tending to her flowerbeds while
Henry leaves for the afternoon on business. After he returns, he has promised
to take her out that evening for dinner and a movie. Soon after he leaves,
Elise encounters a road traveling tinker who is in search of directions
and household goods to mend. Initially, she firmly refuses his services,
until later, Elise and the tinker find commonality in the chrysanthemums.
Not only does she have him mend a pot, but sends the visitor on his way
with a special gift.
Read to discover Elise's reaction to this meeting, how it is reflected
in her relationship with Henry, and what becomes of the gift.
Written by Regina Gates
