1️⃣ To Parents
This story introduces children to Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. It emphasizes values of compassion, bravery, and service, while helping students learn historical context through descriptive past-tense narration and action-oriented vocabulary.
- Biographical storytelling
- Cause-effect structure
- Vocabulary related to war, care, and service
2️⃣ Today's Reading
Clara Barton and the Birth of the Red Cross
The battlefield was full of smoke. Soldiers called out for help.
Clara Barton moved quickly, her red skirt swaying as she carried bandages and water. She wasn’t a soldier—but she was saving lives.
During the American Civil War, Clara Barton was known as “The Angel of the Battlefield.”
She was not afraid of blood, dirt, or danger. While others stayed far away, she went to the front lines.
“I can’t fight,” she said, “but I can help.”
She wrapped wounds, gave comfort, and wrote letters home for injured soldiers.
After the war, Clara traveled to Europe. There, she learned about a new group: the International Red Cross, which helped people in times of war and disaster.
When she returned to the United States, she had one goal:
Bring the Red Cross to America.
People laughed. “It’s too big an idea.”
But Clara never gave up. She worked day and night—writing, speaking, asking leaders to listen.
Finally, in 1881, the American Red Cross was born.
Clara became its first president. Her dream had become real.
Today, the Red Cross helps people all over the world. And it began with one woman’s heart and courage.
3️⃣ New Vocabularies
- battlefield /ˈbætəlˌfild/ – 戰場
Clara helped soldiers on the battlefield. - bandage /ˈbændɪdʒ/ – 繃帶
She carried bandages to stop the bleeding. - comfort /ˈkʌmfɚt/ – 安慰
Clara gave comfort to those who were afraid. - disaster /dɪˈzæstɚ/ – 災難
The Red Cross helps people after disasters. - found /faʊnd/ – 創辦
Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross. - never give up /ˈnɛvɚ ɡɪv ʌp/ – 永不放棄
Clara never gave up, even when people doubted her.
4️⃣ Hi, Kids!
Have you ever wanted to help someone, even if it felt difficult or scary?
What’s one way you could make the world a little better? “Even though others didn’t believe me, I kept trying and...”
5️⃣ Questions
- What did Clara Barton do during the war?
A. She fought with a sword B. She helped wounded soldiers C. She worked in a store D. She hid in a shelter - What was Clara’s nickname?
A. Doctor Barton B. Teacher of Hope C. The Angel of the Battlefield D. Leader of Peace - What group did Clara bring to America?
A. Red Shield B. American Rescue Team C. International Doctors D. The Red Cross - Why did people doubt Clara?
A. She had no money B. They thought her idea was too big C. She didn’t like helping D. She wasn’t American - What made Clara successful?
A. She was strong and never gave up B. She had a big family C. She ran fast D. She stayed silent
6️⃣ 🌟 Good Job
You’re doing amazing! Just like Clara, your kindness and courage can change the world—never stop helping others.
