02/17/2025

 Dear Parents,

Today in class we did the following:

□ 1. Vocabulary words 1 – 15 Read Red Kayak

□ 2. Homework: Vocabulary words 1 – 15 x 3, defs x 1, 5 sentences using a vocabulary word

dairy farm: a place where dairy products are made

2) soft drinks:  a bubbly drink, usually flavored, that does not contain alcohol

3) potting soil: a mixture of dirt and other substances that people use when placing plants in pots

4) outgrow: to grow or increase faster than

5) prickly: full of small, sharp points

6) metallic: made of or containing a metal

7) polar: relating to the North or South Pole or the areas around them

8) bouquets: flowers picked and fastened together in a bunch

9) exhibit: to present to view

10) churn: a container in which cream is stirred or shaken to make butter

11) harbor: a protected area of water next to the land where ships and boats can be safely kept

12) drama: a movie or television production with characteristics (such as conflict) of a serious play

13) pedal: a lever pushed by the foot to run or control a machine

14) scoop: a large spoon commonly used for ice cream

15) rewards: something that is given in return for a good deed

Story summary

In Red Kayak by Priscilla Cummings, the story revolves around Brady Parks, a teenage boy living in a small town along the Chesapeake Bay. Brady enjoys spending time on the water with his best friends, J.T. and Digger, often kayaking and exploring the bay. One day, an accident occurs when their neighbor, Mrs. DiAngelo, and her young son, Ben, take their red kayak out on the bay despite bad weather. The kayak capsizes, leading to a desperate rescue attempt by Brady, who discovers Ben unconscious and fights to save his life.

As the story unfolds, Brady grapples with intense emotions of guilt and confusion. He finds Ben in the water. He’s heavy and unconscious. Brady must battle cold weather and rain to save Ben’s life. He performs CPR on him while driving a boat in the pouring rain.

In the end, Brady is able to get Ben to safety. He’s loaded into an ambulance which takes him to a helicopter. When Brady hears that Ben has a pulse, he’s relieved. He’s saved the life of a young boy, and learns to appreciate things better.