Genre Biography Thinking Guide and Activities

Transcription

1 Genre Biography Thinking Guide and Activities Title of the Selection: Misty Copeland Teaching Band Grades 6-8 Reading Click here for more resources from Fisher Reyna Education A Biography Thinking Guide with selection summary is provided. The Biography Thinking Guide identifies the topic, central idea of the selection, and the main idea of each paragraph organized by a biography outline. In addition, the main ideas are clustered by color code to develop a meaningful summary.!misty Copeland Biography Thinking Guide!Color-Coded Biography Thinking Guide and Summary The Biography Thinking Guide is used to develop other fun and interactive activities. Fisher Reyna Education offers the following activities:!outline Scramble!Matching Pre-Reading!Matching Activity!Thinking Guide Cloze 1st Letter!Thinking Guide Cloze Blank!Thinking Guide Write Main Ideas!Vocabulary!Selection Analysis!Test Item Analysis Fisher Reyna Education 2016!!Solutions for Success!! Reading

2 Misty Copeland 1 In the coastal community of San Pedro, California, Misty and her family finally settled down to live after often packing up and moving from town to town. Although she loved swimming on the beach, had loving siblings, and a beautiful mother, things had also been difficult for her family. She was one of six children of mixed heritage. Despite reaching some stability, she and her five siblings were often mistreated by her new step-father. Even so, Misty Copeland found peace in school and the world of performance. She discovered a love for dance! What sets her apart? Misty was a firebird who used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Training and Early Career 2 Early on, Misty found inspiration from young girls like Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who also faced similar struggles, yet succeeded in becoming an Olympic gold medalist in the 1970s and 1980s. Copeland regularly danced to songs by music icon Mariah Cary and was eventually chosen to be the captain of her drill team at her middle school. It was her drill team teacher that suggested Misty take ballet classes at the Boys and Girls Club she attended. With this sound advice, Misty eventually came under the training of Cynthia Cindy Bradley, who realized that the young girl was a genius. Misty had a real gift;; she was able to see and perform choreographed movement immediately and dance en pointe after a very short period of ballet training. 3 While her dancing life was blossoming, Misty s home life was getting more and more difficult. Her family eventually lost their home and began to live in a motel. These difficulties encouraged her mother to allow the now 13-year-old dancer to move in with her teacher s family. This decision allowed Misty to continue her training, while also entering the public spotlight as a promising performer. It was at a charity event with the famous actress Angela Bassett, that Misty first gathered attention. She won the lead role in the production of The Chocolate Nutcracker, a ballet production that received recognition in the Los Angeles Times Magazine. This attention brought wonderful success, but also brought more family troubles. 2

3 4 After attending a summer intensive program on a scholarship at the San Francisco Ballet, Misty s mother battled with Cindy Bradley. She wanted her daughter to live with her again. Due to her now famous performances, Misty also faced the media coverage of this unrest, which made her situation more problematic. Eventually, Misty went back to live with her mother and siblings. Her heart hurt, but once again her dancing helped. 5 She continued to take classes in places like the Lauridsen Ballet Centre and another summer intensive program at the renowned American Ballet Theatre. The American Ballet Theatre, also known as ABT, is a world class ballet organization committed to the best dance and movement. American Ballet Theatre is typically considered the best company for classical ballet in the nation. Those involved with ABT work to uphold the art of ballet and make it available to all who seek it out. It is a historic and leading cultural institution. Misty joined ABT s studio company in 2000, and then became part of its corps de ballet the following year. By 2007, Misty reached the rank of ABT soloist, with an artistic forcefulness showcased in many performances that people loved and critics praised. This proved to be a significant event in her dancing career. 6 During this time, she continued to pursue her passion and develop her skills. Just when it seemed as if her difficult entry into the world of dance was finally going to enjoy some ease, she faced several severe injuries. At the beginning of her ABT career, she faced a spinal fracture that required time off dance and wearing a brace for almost an entire year! A few years later, she had to temporarily stop dancing to heal from stress fractures to her left shin. Despite these obstacles, Misty never abandoned her dreams, and continued to work hard to improve her art form. 3

4 Historical Achievements 7 Due to her non-traditional entry into ballet and being one of the few African-American performers seen in classical dance, Misty created buzz on the world stage and with young people. As her fame grew, so did her feelings of obligation and responsibility to minority girls looking to make their way in the art form of ballet. Her trailblazing accomplishments have been recognized by a range of audiences. In 2015, she was named Time Magazine s 100 Most Influential People. This was a rare accomplishment for someone from the world of dance, especially from African-American heritage. 8 In June of 2015, Misty became the first African American woman to dance with ABT in a dual role in Pyotry llyich Tchaikovsky s Swan Lake. Then on June 30 of that same year, Misty earned the incredible achievement of becoming the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year history. At a press conference reporting on this achievement, Misty told reporters through tears that this recognition marked the culmination of her lifelong dream. In an interview for Time Magazine about this event, she stated, I never saw a ballerina who looked like me before. She stated she wanted to try and open up the doors for the history of African-American ballerinas that I feel is just never told. 9 Since then, Misty has been busy performing, speaking, and has even written books. Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina was a New York Times Best seller. She also published an award-winning children s book titled Firebird. In it she explains young dancers spin wishes for new little ones we can t yet imagine. With her books, she hopes to encourage young girls to have faith in themselves. She believes that through hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dream. From Firebird, came the inspiration of a Barbie doll. The doll is part of Barbie s Sheroes Program, which honors female heroes who break boundaries. These projects allowed Misty to create strong and positive images for young African-American girls. From a young girl who faced many challenges, this inspirational performer danced into the heart of young people everywhere. 10 Want to learn more? Visit her beautiful website mistycopeland.com to view her official website. Inside, people can learn more about Misty, her dance, and her latest news. Best of all, young girls can view inspiring photos of this beautiful ballet firebird. 4

5 1 Misty Copeland titled her children s book Firebird probably because she A liked to observe red birds fly B enjoyed watching ballet dancers perform on stage C hoped to move as gracefully as birds in the sky D wanted to inspire young girls to dance like a firebird 2 Which words from paragraph 6 help the reader understand the meaning of abandoned? A develop her skills B continued to work hard C improve her art form D finally going to enjoy some ease 3 What is one theme presented in the selection? A Watching others is the easiest way to learn. B Supporting other people pays off. C Finding a friend is difficult. D Believing in dreams can break barriers. 5

6 4 Misty believes it is important for young girls to A do well in school B watch how other people find success C learn new dances D have good role models 5 With which statement would the author agree most? A Misty wants all people to experience and learn about the beauty of Ballet. B Misty is disappointed that no other African-American artist has held a leading role at the American Ballet Theatre. C Misty understands that some people are difficult. D Misty wants all girls to dance professionally. 6

7 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Biography Thinking Guide Topic of Selection Central Idea (Main Idea of Selection) Main Idea of Each Paragraph Biography Outline A. Introduction to the person, animal, or thing B. Early years Name or phrase to describe the noteworthy person, animal, or thing Misty Copeland Greatest accomplishment or significance Used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Use biography outline to predict the main idea of each paragraph. 1. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her difficult home life 2. Misty found inspiration and came under the training of Cindy Bradley 3. Home life continued to be difficult 4. Her mother battled with Cindy Bradley C. Education, training, or development D. Significant events 5. Continued to take classes and reached the rank of ABT soloist 6. Faced several severe injuries, but continued to work hard 7. Created buzz on the world stage E. Greatest accomplishment or significance 8. Became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75- year history F. Influence 9. She performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. 10. Misty Copeland website.

8 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Color-Coded Biography Thinking Guide Topic of Selection Central Idea (Main Idea of Selection) Main Idea of Each Paragraph Name or phrase to describe the noteworthy person, animal, or thing Misty Copeland Greatest accomplishment or significance Used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Use biography outline to predict the main idea of each paragraph. Biography Outline A. Introduction to the person, animal, or thing B. Early years 1. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her difficult home life 2. Misty found inspiration and came under the training of Cindy Bradley 3. Home life continued to be difficult 4. Her mother battled with Cindy Bradley C. Education, training, or development D. Significant events 5. Continued to take classes and reached the rank of ABT soloist 6. Faced several severe injuries, but continued to work hard 7. Created buzz on the world stage E. Greatest accomplishment or significance 8. Became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75- year history F. Influence 9. She performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. 10. Misty Copeland website. Misty Copeland used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Despite her difficult home life, Misty found inspiration and a love for ballet. She eventually came under the training of Cindy Bradley. Through obstacles that involved family and injuries Misty continued to take classes and work hard. She became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer. Today, she performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls.

9 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Outline Scramble Directions Main ideas are arranged in alphabetical order. Article is read and students write the paragraph number by the correct main idea. This may be 1. teacher guided with individual student recording correct paragraph number. 2. teacher guided with main ideas projected with teacher marking the correct response from the group. 3. partners working together as they take turns reading and recording correct paragraph number. Paragraph Number Paragraph Main Ideas Home life continued to be difficult Misty Copeland website. Continued to take classes and reached the rank of ABT soloist Created buzz on the world stage Faced several severe injuries, but continued to work hard She performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her difficult home life Became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year history Misty found inspiration and came under the training of Cindy Bradley Her mother battled with Cindy Bradley

10 Matching Pre-Reading Directions and Activity Variations Students may work individually or with a partner. Teacher shows the titles, subtitles and photos with captions as a pre-reading activity to the Matching Activity. Misty Copeland Training and Early Career Historical Achievements

11 Matching Activity Directions and Activity Variations Students may work individually or with a partner. 1. Cut apart the main ideas and give one main idea to individual student or partners. Teacher reads the selection one paragraph at a time. Students identify when they have the matching main idea. 2. Provide the selection and cut-apart main ideas. Students read the selection and match cutapart main ideas to paragraphs in the selection. 3. Provide cut-apart selection and cut-apart main ideas. Students match cut-apart paragraphs to the cut-apart main ideas. Home life continued to be difficult Misty Copeland website. Continued to take classes and reached the rank of ABT soloist Created buzz on the world stage Faced several severe injuries, but continued to work hard She performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her difficult home life Became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year history Misty found inspiration and came under the training of Cindy Bradley Her mother battled with Cindy Bradley

12 Matching Activity Paragraphs In the coastal community of San Pedro, California, Misty and her family finally settled down to live after often packing up and moving from town to town. Although she loved swimming on the beach, had loving siblings, and a beautiful mother, things had also been difficult for her family. She was one of six children of mixed heritage. Despite reaching some stability, she and her five siblings were often mistreated by her new step-father. Even so, Misty Copeland found peace in school and the world of performance. She discovered a love for dance! What sets her apart? Misty was a firebird who used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Early on, Misty found inspiration from young girls like Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who also faced similar struggles, yet succeeded in becoming an Olympic gold medalist in the 1970s and 1980s. Copeland regularly danced to songs by music icon Mariah Cary and was eventually chosen to be the captain of her drill team at her middle school. It was her drill team teacher that suggested Misty take ballet classes at the Boys and Girls Club she attended. With this sound advice, Misty eventually came under the training of Cynthia Cindy Bradley, who realized that the young girl was a genius. Misty had a real gift;; she was able to see and perform choreographed movement immediately and dance en pointe after a very short period of ballet training. While her dancing life was blossoming, Misty s home life was getting more and more difficult. Her family eventually lost their home and began to live in a motel. These difficulties encouraged her mother to allow the now 13-year-old dancer to move in with her teacher s family. This decision allowed Misty to continue her training, while also entering the public spotlight as a promising performer. It was at a charity event with the famous actress Angela Bassett, that Misty first gathered attention. She won the lead role in the production of The Chocolate Nutcracker, a ballet production that received recognition in the Los Angeles Times Magazine. This attention brought wonderful success, but also brought more family troubles.

13 After attending a summer intensive program on a scholarship at the San Francisco Ballet, Misty s mother battled with Cindy Bradley. She wanted her daughter to live with her again. Due to her now famous performances, Misty also faced the media coverage of this unrest, which made her situation more problematic. Eventually, Misty went back to live with her mother and siblings. Her heart hurt, but once again her dancing helped. She continued to take classes in places like the Lauridsen Ballet Centre and another summer intensive program at the renowned American Ballet Theatre. The American Ballet Theatre, also known as ABT, is a world class ballet organization committed to the best dance and movement. American Ballet Theatre is typically considered the best company for classical ballet in the nation. Those involved with ABT work to uphold the art of ballet and make it available to all who seek it out. It is a historic and leading cultural institution. Misty joined ABT s studio company in 2000, and then became part of its corps de ballet the following year. By 2007, Misty reached the rank of ABT soloist, with an artistic forcefulness showcased in many performances that people loved and critics praised. This proved to be a significant event in her dancing career. During this time, she continued to pursue her passion and develop her skills. Just when it seemed as if her difficult entry into the world of dance was finally going to enjoy some ease, she faced several severe injuries. At the beginning of her ABT career, she faced a spinal fracture that required time off dance and wearing a brace for almost an entire year! A few years later, she had to temporarily stop dancing to heal from stress fractures to her left shin. Despite these obstacles, Misty never abandoned her dreams, and continued to work hard to improve her art form.

14 Due to her non-traditional entry into ballet and being one of the few African-American performers seen in classical dance, Misty created buzz on the world stage and with young people. As her fame grew, so did her feelings of obligation and responsibility to minority girls looking to make their way in the art form of ballet. Her trailblazing accomplishments have been recognized by a range of audiences. In 2015, she was named Time Magazine s 100 Most Influential People. This was a rare accomplishment for someone from the world of dance, especially from African-American heritage. In June of 2015, Misty became the first African American woman to dance with ABT in a dual role in Pyotry llyich Tchaikovsky s Swan Lake. Then on June 30 of that same year, Misty earned the incredible achievement of becoming the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75- year history. At a press conference reporting on this achievement, Misty told reporters through tears that this recognition marked the culmination of her lifelong dream. In an interview for Time Magazine about this event, she stated, I never saw a ballerina who looked like me before. She stated she wanted to try and open up the doors for the history of African-American ballerinas that I feel is just never told. Since then, Misty has been busy performing, speaking, and has even written books. Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina was a New York Times Best seller. She also published an award-winning children s book titled Firebird. In it she explains young dancers spin wishes for new little ones we can t yet imagine. With her books, she hopes to encourage young girls to have faith in themselves. She believes that through hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dream. From Firebird, came the inspiration of a Barbie doll. The doll is part of Barbie s Sheroes Program, which honors female heroes who break boundaries. These projects allowed Misty to create strong and positive images for young African-American girls. From a young girl who faced many challenges, this inspirational performer danced into the heart of young people everywhere.

15 Want to learn more? Visit her beautiful website mistycopeland.com to view her official website. Inside, people can learn more about Misty, her dance, and her latest news. Best of all, young girls can view inspiring photos of this beautiful ballet firebird.

16 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Biography Thinking Guide Cloze 1 st Letter Activity Directions As selection is read, complete the words in the blanks with the first letter given. Topic of Selection Central Idea (Main Idea of Selection) Main Idea of Each Paragraph Name or phrase to describe the noteworthy person, animal, or thing M C Greatest accomplishment or significance Used her l and g of dance to blaze through c b. Use biography outline to predict the main idea of each paragraph. Biography Outline A. Introduction to the person, animal, or thing B. Early years C. Education, training, or development D. Significant events 1. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her d home life 2. Misty found i and came under the training of Cindy Bradley 3. Home life continued to be d 4. Her mother battled with C B 5. C to take classes and r the rank of ABT soloist 6. Faced several s injuries, but continued to w h 7. Created buzz on the world stage E. Greatest accomplishment or significance 8. Became the f African-American performer to be a an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year h F. Influence 9. She p, s, and w books to create a strong and positive image for young A A girls. 10. Misty Copeland website.

17 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Directions As selection is read, fill in the blanks. Biography Thinking Guide Cloze Blank Activity Topic of Selection Central Idea (Main Idea of Selection) Main Idea of Each Paragraph Name or phrase to describe the noteworthy person, animal, or thing Greatest accomplishment or significance Used her and of dance to blaze through. Use biography outline to predict the main idea of each paragraph. Biography Outline A. Introduction to the person, animal, or thing B. Early years C. Education, training, or development D. Significant events 1. Introduction to Misty Copeland and her home life 2. Misty found and came under the training of Cindy Bradley 3. Home life continued to be 4. Her mother battled with 5. to take classes and the rank of ABT soloist 6. Faced several injuries, but continued to 7. Created buzz on the world stage E. Greatest accomplishment or significance 8. Became the African-American performer to be an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year F. Influence 9. She,, and books to create a strong and positive image for young girls. 10. Misty Copeland website.

18 Title of the Selection Misty Copeland Genre: Informational Biography Write Main Ideas Activity Directions Students take notes that include topic, central idea of the selection, and main idea of each paragraph. Paragraphs with implied main ideas increase the level of difficulty with this activity. Topic of Selection Central Idea (Main Idea of Selection) Main Idea of Each Paragraph Name or phrase to describe the noteworthy person, animal, or thing Misty Copeland Greatest accomplishment or significance Used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Use biography outline to predict the main idea of each paragraph. Biography Outline A. Introduction to the person, animal, or thing B. Early years C. Education, training, or development D. Significant events E. Greatest accomplishment or significance F. Influence

19 Misty Copeland Vocabulary Using Context Clues Note: This vocabulary activity should be used after students have read the article. Directions: Display the following vocabulary list. Ask the students to define the words they recognize. Then reread the selection as the students listen for these words. After hearing one of the listed words in context, ask students to give its definition. The words are listed in the order in which they appear in the selection. 1. stability 2. en pointe 3. blossoming 4. charity 5. intensive 6. unrest 7. renowned 8. institution 9. stress 10. trailblazing 11. culmination

20 Biography Misty Copeland 1 In the coastal community of San Pedro, California, Misty and her family finally settled down to live after often packing up and moving from town to town. Although she loved swimming on the beach, had loving siblings, and a beautiful mother, things had also been difficult for her family. She was one of six children of mixed heritage. Despite reaching some stability, she and her five siblings were often mistreated Topic by her new step-father. Even so, Misty Copeland found peace in school and the world of performance. She discovered a love for dance! What Central Idea sets her apart? Misty was a firebird who used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Training and Early Career 2 Early on, Misty found inspiration from young girls like Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who also faced similar struggles, yet succeeded in becoming an Olympic gold medalist in the 1970s and 1980s. Copeland regularly danced to songs by music icon Mariah Cary and was eventually chosen to be the captain of her drill team at her middle school. It was her drill team teacher that suggested Misty take ballet classes at the Boys and Girls Club she attended. With this sound advice, Misty eventually came under the training of Cynthia Cindy Bradley, who realized that the young girl was a genius. Misty had a real gift;; she was able to see and perform choreographed movement immediately and dance en pointe after a very short period of ballet training. 3 While her dancing life was blossoming, Misty s home life was getting more and more difficult. Her family eventually lost their home and began to live in a motel. These difficulties encouraged her mother to allow the now 13-year-old dancer to move in with her teacher s family. This decision allowed Misty to continue her training, while also entering the public spotlight as a promising performer. It was at a charity event with the famous actress Angela Bassett, that Misty first gathered attention. She won the lead role in the production of The Chocolate Nutcracker, a ballet production that received recognition in the Los Angeles Times Magazine. This attention brought wonderful success, but also brought more family troubles. 1

21 Significant Event 4 After attending a summer intensive program on a scholarship at the San Francisco Ballet, Misty s mother battled with Cindy Bradley. She wanted her daughter to live with her again. Due to her now famous performances, Misty also faced the media coverage of this unrest, which made her situation more problematic. Eventually, Misty went back to live with her mother and siblings. Her heart hurt, but once again her dancing helped. 5 She continued to take classes in places like the Lauridsen Ballet Centre and another summer intensive program at the renowned American Ballet Theatre. The American Ballet Theatre, also known as ABT, is a world class ballet organization committed to the best dance and movement. American Ballet Theatre is typically considered the best company for classical ballet in the nation. Those involved with ABT work to uphold the art of ballet and make it available to all who seek it out. It is a historic and leading cultural institution. Misty joined ABT s studio company in 2000, and then became part of its corps de ballet the following year. By 2007, Misty reached the rank of ABT soloist, with an artistic forcefulness showcased in many performances that people loved and critics praised. This proved to be a significant event in her dancing career. 6 During this time, she continued to pursue her passion and develop her skills. Just when it seemed as if her difficult entry into the world of dance was finally going to enjoy some ease, she faced several severe injuries. At the beginning of her ABT career, she faced a spinal fracture that required time off dance and wearing a brace for almost an entire year! A few years later, she had to temporarily stop dancing to heal from stress fractures to her left shin. Despite these obstacles, Misty never abandoned her dreams, and continued to work hard to improve her art form. 2

22 Greatest Accomplishment Historical Achievements 7 Due to her non-traditional entry into ballet and being one of the few African-American performers seen in classical dance, Misty created buzz on the world stage and with young people. As her fame grew, so did her feelings of obligation and responsibility to minority girls looking to make their way in the art form of ballet. Her trailblazing accomplishments have been recognized by a range of audiences. In 2015, she was named Time Magazine s 100 Most Influential People. This was a rare accomplishment for someone from the world of dance, especially from African-American heritage. 8 In June of 2015, Misty became the first African American woman to dance with ABT in a dual role in Pyotry llyich Tchaikovsky s Swan Lake. Then on June 30 of that same year, Misty earned the incredible achievement of becoming the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year history. At a press conference reporting on this achievement, Misty told reporters through tears that this recognition marked the culmination of her lifelong dream. In an interview for Time Magazine about this event, she stated, I never saw a ballerina who looked like me before. She stated she wanted to try and open up the doors for the history of African-American ballerinas that I feel is just never told. Influence 9 Since then, Misty has been busy performing, speaking, and has even written books. Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina was a New York Times Best seller. She also published an award-winning children s book titled Firebird. In it she explains young dancers spin wishes for new little ones we can t yet imagine. With her books, she hopes to encourage young girls to have faith in themselves. She believes that through hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dream. From Firebird, came the inspiration of a Barbie doll. The doll is part of Barbie s Sheroes Program, which honors female heroes who break boundaries. These projects allowed Misty to create strong and positive images for young African-American girls. From a young girl who faced many challenges, this inspirational performer danced into the heart of young people everywhere. 10 Want to learn more? Visit her beautiful website mistycopeland.com to view her official website. Inside, people can learn more about Misty, her dance, and her latest news. Best of all, young girls can view inspiring photos of this beautiful ballet firebird. Misty Copeland used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Despite her difficult home life, Misty found inspiration and a love for ballet. She eventually came under the training of Cindy Bradley. Through obstacles that involved family and injuries Misty continued to take classes and work hard. She became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer. Today, she performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. 3

23 Biography Misty Copeland 1 In the coastal community of San Pedro, California, Misty and her family finally settled down to live after often packing up and moving from town to town. Although she loved swimming on the beach, had loving siblings, and a beautiful mother, things had also been difficult for her family. She was one of six children of mixed heritage. Despite reaching some stability, she and her five siblings were often mistreated Topic by her new step-father. Even so, Misty Copeland found peace in school and the world of performance. She discovered a love for dance! What Central Idea sets her apart? Misty was a firebird who used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Training and Early Career 2 Early on, Misty found inspiration from young girls like Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who also faced similar struggles, yet succeeded in becoming an Olympic gold medalist in the 1970s and 1980s. Copeland regularly danced to songs by music icon Mariah Cary and was eventually chosen to be the captain of her drill team at her middle school. It was her drill team teacher that suggested Misty take ballet classes at the Boys and Girls Club she attended. With this sound advice, Misty eventually came under the training of Cynthia Cindy Bradley, who realized that the young girl was a genius. Misty had a real gift;; she was able to see and perform choreographed movement immediately and dance en pointe after a very short period of ballet training. 3 While her dancing life was blossoming, Misty s home life was getting more and more difficult. Her family eventually lost their home and began to live in a motel. These difficulties encouraged her mother to allow the now 13-year-old dancer to move in with her teacher s family. This decision allowed Misty to continue her training, while also entering the public spotlight as a promising performer. It was at a charity event with the famous actress Angela Bassett, that Misty first gathered attention. She won the lead role in the production of The Chocolate Nutcracker, a ballet production that received recognition in the Los Angeles Times Magazine. This attention brought wonderful success, but also brought more family troubles. 1

24 Significant Event 4 After attending a summer intensive program on a scholarship at the San Francisco Ballet, Misty s mother battled with Cindy Bradley. She wanted her daughter to live with her again. Due to her now famous performances, Misty also faced the media coverage of this unrest, which made her situation more problematic. Eventually, Misty went back to live with her mother and siblings. Her heart hurt, but once again her dancing helped. 5 She continued to take classes in places like the Lauridsen Ballet Centre and another summer intensive program at the renowned American Ballet Theatre. The American Ballet Theatre, also known as ABT, is a world class ballet organization committed to the best dance and movement. American Ballet Theatre is typically considered the best company for classical ballet in the nation. Those involved with ABT work to uphold the art of ballet and make it available to all who seek it out. It is a historic and leading cultural institution. Misty joined ABT s studio company in 2000, and then became part of its corps de ballet the following year. By 2007, Misty reached the rank of ABT soloist, with an artistic forcefulness showcased in many performances that people loved and critics praised. This proved to be a significant event in her dancing career. 6 During this time, she continued to pursue her passion and develop her skills. Just when it seemed as if her difficult entry into the world of dance was finally going to enjoy some ease, she faced several severe injuries. At the beginning of her ABT career, she faced a spinal fracture that required time off dance and wearing a brace for almost an entire year! A few years later, she had to temporarily stop dancing to heal from stress fractures to her left shin. Despite these obstacles, Misty never abandoned her dreams, and continued to work hard to improve her art form. 2

25 Greatest Accomplishment Historical Achievements 7 Due to her non-traditional entry into ballet and being one of the few African-American performers seen in classical dance, Misty created buzz on the world stage and with young people. As her fame grew, so did her feelings of obligation and responsibility to minority girls looking to make their way in the art form of ballet. Her trailblazing accomplishments have been recognized by a range of audiences. In 2015, she was named Time Magazine s 100 Most Influential People. This was a rare accomplishment for someone from the world of dance, especially from African-American heritage. 8 In June of 2015, Misty became the first African American woman to dance with ABT in a dual role in Pyotry llyich Tchaikovsky s Swan Lake. Then on June 30 of that same year, Misty earned the incredible achievement of becoming the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer in the company s 75-year history. At a press conference reporting on this achievement, Misty told reporters through tears that this recognition marked the culmination of her lifelong dream. In an interview for Time Magazine about this event, she stated, I never saw a ballerina who looked like me before. She stated she wanted to try and open up the doors for the history of African-American ballerinas that I feel is just never told. Influence 9 Since then, Misty has been busy performing, speaking, and has even written books. Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina was a New York Times Best seller. She also published an award-winning children s book titled Firebird. In it she explains young dancers spin wishes for new little ones we can t yet imagine. With her books, she hopes to encourage young girls to have faith in themselves. She believes that through hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dream. From Firebird, came the inspiration of a Barbie doll. The doll is part of Barbie s Sheroes Program, which honors female heroes who break boundaries. These projects allowed Misty to create strong and positive images for young African-American girls. From a young girl who faced many challenges, this inspirational performer danced into the heart of young people everywhere. 10 Want to learn more? Visit her beautiful website mistycopeland.com to view her official website. Inside, people can learn more about Misty, her dance, and her latest news. Best of all, young girls can view inspiring photos of this beautiful ballet firebird. Misty Copeland used her love and gift of dance to blaze through cultural boundaries. Despite her difficult home life, Misty found inspiration and a love for ballet. She eventually came under the training of Cindy Bradley. Through obstacles that involved family and injuries Misty continued to take classes and work hard. She became the first African-American performer to be appointed an ABT principal dancer. Today, she performs, speaks, and writes books to create a strong and positive image for young African American girls. 3

26 1 Misty Copeland titled her children s book Firebird probably because she A liked to observe red birds fly B enjoyed watching ballet dancers perform on stage C hoped to move as gracefully as birds in the sky D wanted to inspire young girls to dance like a firebird " " " 2 Which words from paragraph 6 help the reader understand the meaning of abandoned? A develop her skills B continued to work hard C improve her art form " " D finally going to enjoy some ease " 3 What is one theme presented in the selection? A Watching others is the easiest way to learn. B Supporting other people pays off. C Finding a friend is difficult. D Believing in dreams can break barriers. 4

27 4 Misty believes it is important for young girls to A do well in school B watch how other people find success C learn new dances " " D have good role models " 5 With which statement would the author agree most? A Misty wants all people to experience and learn about the beauty of Ballet. B Misty is disappointed that no other African-American artist has held a leading role at the American Ballet Theatre. C Misty understands that some people are difficult. D Misty wants all girls to dance professionally. " " " 5