Mentor Text Linky~~Language Arts

I can not let Sunday end without linking up with one of my favorite blogs....Collaboration Cuties!

Today I'm sharing a book that I've had and used for a long time. It's Yo! Yes? by Chris Raschke.

At first glance it doesn't look like much. As you read through the pages you only see one or two words on each page, but if you pay close attention to the illustrations, as well as the words, there is a whole story of friendship in there. There are 34 words in total. AMAZING!

Here are the first few pages:

The story continues on as the boys banter back and forth. By the end, they are great friends.

Here are some discussions/mini lessons that you could use with this mentor text:
*Reading with expression. Practice changing inflection with the question mark and exclamation point.
*Teach punctuation.
*Notice the illustrations. How do the illustrations help you understand the text?
*Notice the font. Why are some bold and larger? Why are some small? How does the author want you to read each one differently?
*Great reader's theater. Have pairs of students practice and read this aloud for fluency practice. It's easy enough to memorize.
*Use as a mentor text for a writing lesson. Students can write and illustrate their own story using only 34 words.
*Discuss the theme of friendship. How is each boy feeling? What can you tell about their personalities from the illustrations?

I love this book. It's perfect as the end of year rolls around. Take it out when the textbooks are collected and have some fun!!