NURSERY RHYME LESSON
Ladybug, Ladybug

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Ladybug, Ladybug
Text Type: Poetry • Word Count: 26

Nursery Rhyme Summary
The poor little ladybug is urged to "fly away home" when her house catches fire. What a relief to find her little Ann safe under the frying pan!

Building Background
Ask students if they know what a ladybug is and if they have seen one. Tell them that in many places, ladybugs are considered good luck. When some people find a ladybug, they recite this rhyme and make a wish. Because nursery rhymes are passed down orally, students may know different versions than the one in the book. Allow students to recite their versions.

Discuss poetry's rhymes and rhythms. Read the title and ask students to come up with a word that rhymes with bug. Use other familiar rhymes as references. Also explain that poetry's syllables follow a rhythm or "beat."

Preview the Poem
Show students the cover of the book and read the title. What do students think the ladybug does? Open the book to the title page and show students the illustrations. Explain to them that you are going to read a poem about the ladybug.

During the Reading
Allow students to stop and ask questions during reading, especially if there is something they do not understand. If reading aloud, be sure to read with expression. Emphasize the rhyme and rhythm of the poem. You may wish to invite students to clap along with the rhythm or raise their hands when they hear rhyming words. Use think-aloud strategies and react to parts of the book with facial expressions and gestures.

After the Reading
Reader Response
Ask students what they thought of the poem. Have volunteers summarize the poem or name their favorite part.

Comprehension
Ask specific questions that allow students to demonstrate their understanding of the poem.

• What happened to the ladybug's house?
  
• Where are her children?
  
• Who was under the frying pan?