Fourth Grade
Worksheets
The Thrill of the Grill
The smell of grilling meat flowed through the air around the outdoor pool. Friends were splashing and sunning out around the oval shaped pool, a new treat for the Riviera family.
The Rivieras had moved into the neighborhood during the winter. They had saved money for many years to be able to buy a nice home. They were very excited that their new home included an in-ground pool. As the weather warmed, they opened the pool, got some new outdoor furniture, and bought a fantastic, large "Mega Grill," which was going to be Mr. Riviera's personal "toy."
The Mega Grill was huge--bigger than the stove in their house! It had two racks for meat and other items, could be run with gas or charcoal, and had a side burner for other foods. There was a storage cabinet underneath for all the grilling baskets and utensils.
The Rivieras first used the grill when their grandparents came to visit their new home for the first time. Abuela and Abuelo, as the kids called them, lived in Mexico and could only visit once a year. The whole Riviera family was excited about their visit and had planned a big gathering. Aunts, uncles, and cousins were coming from all over. On the menu were steak, hamburgers, sausage, and chicken; all of which, of course, would be cooked to perfection on the new Mega Grill.
As the rest of the family talked, swam, or prepared side dishes, Mr. Riviera pressed the "start" button on the grill to warm it. Mrs. Riviera brought out a tray of meat and several flavored sauces with which to baste the meat. Mr. Riviera's mouth was already watering!
Using his brand new tongs, he carefully picked up each steak and placed it on the hot rack. He began to baste one steak with a barbeque sauce and another with a teriyaki sauce. As the sauces dripped, the steaks sizzled. The appealing smell filled the back yard.
Next, Mr. Riviera placed large, thick ground beef patties on the higher rack. He also cut sausages in half and placed them on the higher rack as well. Lastly, he laid several pieces of chicken on the bottom rack, spreading barbeque sauce on each piece.
As the meat cooked and the wonderful aroma infused the air around pool, family members began to gather around the grill. It was almost like a large stainless steel magnet, drawing family members from all over the yard.
"Is it almost done, Dad? It smells so good!" said Mr. Riviera's daughter Jessica, who, with Abuela and Abuelo by her side, was dripping wet with a big yellow beach towel wrapped around her.
