After a child points out the first and last words in sentences, what is the most appropriate next lesson?

The most appropriate next lesson involves a think-aloud on end punctuation and capitalization. This choice aligns directly with the skills the child has already begun to engage with by identifying the first and last words in sentences. Understanding the role of end punctuation, such as periods, question marks, and exclamation points, as well as the need for capitalization at the beginning of sentences, reinforces the child's comprehension of sentence structure.

By using a think-aloud strategy, the teacher can model the thought process behind recognizing how punctuation functions to convey meaning in sentences. This method not only supports the child's immediate learning but also builds a foundation for later reading and writing skills. Successfully connecting these concepts is crucial to developing literacy and helping the child understand how punctuation and capitalization contribute to reading fluency and comprehension.

The other options, while valid in their contexts, do not directly follow the child's prior engagement with sentence structure as closely as this choice does. Advanced punctuation marks may introduce complexity that isn't beneficial at this stage, and character development or a writing workshop shifts the focus away from foundational reading skills.