Reading lesson: Marching Band

Marching Band

This was Joyce’s first visit to New Orleans, a city in the southern part of the United States. Joyce was standing on the sidewalk with many other people. There were visitors and locals all around. A marching band was coming. There was music in the street. Street music is common in New Orleans.

Joyce heard the horns and drums. She stepped closer to get a better look. Coming down the street were men and women in red jackets and white gloves. They were marching, their legs moving up and down. They were playing brass horns and steel drums. They were playing joyful songs. The songs were getting louder. The music was getting closer. The sun was shining off the tops of buildings. Everyone was smiling.

Nearby, an old woman was selling food: beef and noodle soup. Joyce asked the woman how much for a bowl. The woman said, “Three dollars.” Joyce bought the soup and tasted it. It was warm and spicy. It was exactly what Joyce wanted to eat.

Then, the music was booming. The people on the sidewalk were cheering. They were clapping their hands and singing. Joyce was eating soup and listening. She was having a great time in the city of New Orleans.

Originally published by Daily Departures: Speed Reading Passages for English Language Learners by Regina D. Weaver.