SUMMARY Readers explore the history and methods of making things of glass. Detailed illustrations and photographs support the concepts in the text. Readers can make predictions, compare methods, and make generalizations about glass blowing.

BUILD BACKGROUND Discuss with students the unique characteristics of glass. It is able to withstand heat; it is easy to clean; it is smooth; it can be clear or colored; it comes in many shapes.

PREVIEW/USE TEXT FEATURES As students look through the headings, photographs, and illustrations, ask them to comment on things they find surprising.

TEACH/REVIEW VOCABULARY Play Memory with synonyms by writing each of the following vocabulary words and their synonyms on separate index cards: burros—donkeys; puff—breathe; tune—adjust; factory—plant; bursts—blasts; reply—answer. You may want to point out the meaning for each vocabulary word, especially puff and tune. Place the cards facedown. Students then take turns turning over two cards at a time.

Have students play Synonym Memory with a word and matching picture on one side of each card. Adding a picture will help these students recognize synonyms.

GENERALIZE Review with students that when they read about several people, things, or ideas that are alike, they can often make a general statement about them. Read the first sentence on page 14. Point out that the word much is a clue word. Group students in pairs and assign each pair a page of text. Ask each pair of students to write a general statement from facts on that page. As a class, have students evaluate the generalizations by looking at facts in the text.