READING FLUENCY

Practice Expression: “Dragon, Dragon”

Expression in reading is how you use your voice to express feeling. Use this passage to practice reading with proper expression. Print a copy of this passage from InsideNG.com to help you monitor your progress.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” said the king when everyone was present, “I’ve put up with that dragon as long as I can. He has got to be stopped.”

All the people whispered amongst themselves. The king smiled, pleased with the impression he had made.

But the wise cobbler said gloomily, “It’s all very well to talk about it—but how are you going to do it?”

And now all the people smiled and winked as if to say, “Well, King, he’s got you there!”

The king frowned.

“It’s not that His Majesty hasn’t tried,” the queen spoke up loyally.

“Yes,” said the king. “I’ve told my knights again and again that they ought to slay that dragon. But I can’t force them to go. I’m not a tyrant.”