1. Give students one 3x5 card with a statement from a narrative or expository selection. Students move about the room introducing themselves and reading their statements. Both partners share their pieces. The goal is to hear as many different statements as possible.

2. Students assemble into small groups and write a gist statement (one sentence only) using all the information that was heard.

3. Students write the gist statement on butcher paper and draw a picture to represent the topic. Hang these up. All groups share their gist statements. Talk about the statements they heard several times. Discuss what they heard that created the image they saw.

4. Read the text and compare with their thinking. What in the text confirms their thoughts? What in the text contradicts their thoughts?

• For a class of 30, use 30 index card (or typed strips of paper) using 8-10 different sentences from the text.
• You might want to require students to circulate until they have heard all other statements.
• Allow struggling readers to practice their statements prior to the tea party.
• Consider serving cookies and soft drinks.