02/18/2025

 Dear Parents,

Today in class we did the following:

□ 1. Vocabulary words 16 – 30, Read Red Kayak

□ 2. Homework: Vocabulary words 16 – 30 x 3, defs x 1, 5 sentences using a vocabulary word.

16) motor: a rotating machine that transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy

17) dialed: to make a telephone call or connection

18) swung: past tense and past participle of SWING

19) drizzle: a fine misty rain

20) parka: a hooded fur pullover garment for arctic wear

21) artery: a channel (such as a river or highway) of transportation or communication

22) moaned: a low prolonged sound of pain or of grief

23) plot: a small area of planted ground

24) gear:  movable property 

25) strange: different from what is usual, ordinary, or expected

26) blizzard: a long severe snowstorm

27) elated: marked by high spirits 

28) drained: to make or become gradually dry or empty

29) repellent: causing disgust or dislike
30) organized: describes something arranged in an orderly way

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.