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Grade 4 English Language Arts · Level 2, Read Literature Closely

Understand Literary Words and Allusions

Determine the meaning of words and phrases in literature, including grade-appropriate mythological or literary allusions.

How the lesson starts: Understand Literary Words and Allusions

1. The Myth Museum

   Deep inside the Myth Museum lives Olly, a tiny mouse with giant ears. All day, visitors say fancy words. Olly has become an expert at cracking them, using the sentences around each word.

2. Olly's clue steps

   Here are Olly's steps for any tricky word. Find the word. Read the sentences around it. Spot the clue. Then try a meaning in its place. If the sentence still makes sense, you cracked it.

3. Crack reluctant

   Olly was reluctant to cross the marble hall. He stood at the edge for ages. He shook his head and stayed put. Does that sound eager? No! It sounds unwilling. So reluctant means unwilling to do something.