Lesson Plan - Ready to Shine 

Watch the Video
Watch the video “Sports for All” as a class and ask: What are some examples of adaptive sports? What do these sports have in common?

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

• aggressive
• pursuing
• resilient

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them identify which of the athletes they would most like to see compete.

1. Based on the article, how have the Paralympics changed over time?
Based on the article, the Paralympics have grown over time. The article explains that when the first official Paralympics Games were held in 1960, about 400 athletes from 23 countries took part. This summer, about 4,400 athletes from more than 110 countries will participate in the Games. 
^{(RI.3.1 Text evidence)}

2. Describe one way Lex Gillette and Matt Stutzman are alike and one way they are different.
Sample response: One way Lex Gillette and Matt Stutzman are alike is that both have set records in their sports. One way they are different is that they have different physical challenges. Gillette is blind, and Stutzman was born without arms.
^{(RI.3.8 Comparison)}

3. How does Ixhelt González say she changes when she’s playing wheelchair basketball?
Ixhelt González says that when she’s playing wheelchair basketball, she becomes more aggressive. Usually she is shy.
^{(RI.3.2 Key Details)}

FEATURED SKILL: Setting Goals
Talk about how the athletes featured in the article work toward their goals. Then use the skill builder “Stick With It!” to guide students in setting and working toward their own personal goals this school year.
^{(W.3.4 Production of Writing)}