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Ludlow Laughs

From Reading Rainbow · 1989

Ludlow Laughs
28 minK1st2ndReading & Writing (ELA)Social-Emotional Learning
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Summary

Jon Agee's story features Ludlow, a very serious boy who has never laughed in his life — until one unforgettable day changes everything. LeVar Burton explores what makes things funny and visits a comedy club.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Ludlow has never laughed — until something finally cracks him up.

  1. How does Ludlow feel about humor at the beginning of the story? How does that change?
  2. What finally makes Ludlow laugh? Why do you think *that* particular thing worked?
  3. Why is laughter important? How does it help people connect?
  4. What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you?

Quick work-a-long

Vocabulary: serious, humor, laughter, expression, emotion.

Try it: Write a two-sentence joke or a funny sentence. Then write one word that describes how laughing makes you feel.