Mr. Mayor

1. Set Focus 
Pose this essential question: What qualities are important in a leader?

2. Read and Discuss 
Have students read the article, marking key ideas and questions. Then ask them to answer the following questions, citing text evidence: 

• Why did Jaylen Smith want to be mayor of his city? (Smith wanted to be mayor for many reasons. The town of Earle is facing many problems, and Smith thinks he’s a go-getter who can improve the situation. In addition, his family has lived in the area for generations, so it is important to him. Also, he developed an interest in government when he joined the student council in high school. Now he dreams of being a state legislator or even governor, and having success as mayor of his hometown would be a good start to his political career.)

• What are some of the problems that the city of Earle is facing that Smith hopes to fix? (The city is losing residents, which is affecting its economy. The tax revenue is barely enough to pay the municipal payroll. The state has taken over the school district. Roads and drains need fixing.)

• What did people like about Smith as a candidate? What are some concerns they had? Would you have voted for Smith? Why or why not? (People liked that Smith had long been interested in city affairs. People also thought he was smart and competent. Some people were concerned that he was too young. Students’ inclinations to vote for Smith will vary but their explanations for their choices should be supported by text evidence.)

3. Core Skill Practice
Assign, print, or project the activity The Road to Mayor. Have students use it to sequence events described in the article.

4. Writing Prompt
Imagine that Smith has not yet won his election. Based on details in the article, write the script for a 15-second campaign commercial either for Smith or his opponent.

5. Classroom Debate
Is 18 too young to be mayor?

6. Quiz & Skills
Use the quiz to assess students’ comprehension and Be the Editor to review grammar skills.