1. Skim the reading and check (V) the main idea. ____ (A) Ji-chiang introduced some traditional Taiwanese festivals to Nancy. ____ (B) Ji-chiang wanted to visit Nancy in the United States. ____ (C) Ji-chiang talked about the origin of the Lantern Festival. ____ (D) Ji-chiang wanted to invite Nancy to attend the Yanshuei Beehive Rockets Festival with him. I. Reading for the Main Idea Skimming V

2. Writers often use facts and opinions to persuade readers and make their ideas more convincing. Facts are statements that can be proved to be true or false, while opinions are statements that express a writer’s beliefs or feelings. II. Reading Strategy: Facts and Opinions

3. Examples: 1. “During the Lantern Festival, from dusk until the following dawn, the fireworks in these houses are set off.” → This is a fact because people can find out whether it is true or not. 2. “There’s a fascinating legend about the origin of this festival.” → This is an opinion because fascinating” is a word describing how the writer feels. Other people may not consider this legend fascinating.

4. Exercise: Read the following sentences from the reading. Write “F” in the blank if it is a fact, or “O” if it is an opinion. ____ “Although I just mentioned “beehive” and “rocket,” there aren’t any beehives, and neither are there any rockets.” ____ “It was terrifying, but also exciting.” F O

5. ____ “Ever since, to show their gratitude, the villagers have celebrated Guangong’s help by holding the Beehive Rockets Festival.” ____ “The Yanshuei Beehive Rockets Festival is the most unusual festival I’ve ever visited in Taiwan.” ____ “If you can come with me this year, I guarantee that you won’t regret it.” F O O

6. 1. What is the legend about the origin of the Yanshuei Beehive Rockets Festival? 2. After reading Ji-chiang’s letter, do you want to go to the Yanshuei Beehive Rockets Festival? Why or why not? III. Topics for Discussion