LESSON SEVEN: Discussing Nonfiction Features
LESSON DESCRIPTION
Students learn about the specific features in nonfiction text that aid in comprehension.
GRADE-LEVEL EXPECTATIONS
R1I Identify connections between text ideas-similarities and differences in information and relationships in various fiction and nonfiction works; text ideas and own experiences; text ideas and the world, with assistance.
R2A Locate and apply specific information in a title, pictures, and table of contents.
LESSON MATERIALS
§ Sources of literature
o When the Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant
§ Supplies
o Nonfiction read aloud
o Chart paper
o Various nonfiction books
§ Handouts provided
§ Words to know
o fiction
o nonfiction
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Teacher observation and nonfiction features chart
LEARNING ACTIVITIES
1. Discuss comparing a fiction text with a nonfiction text. Tell students the Cynthia Rylant books they have heard were fiction. Display an example of a nonfiction text and encourage students to share their observations. Discuss the elements found in each text.
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Strategy
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Fiction elements (story elements): setting, characters, problem, solution.
Nonfiction elements (features): table of contents, index, pictures, captions, charts, maps, headings, bolded words, glossary
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2. Read the nonfiction text aloud and encourage discussion concerning new nonfiction features. (Develop an anchor for future reference).
3. Provide students with a selection of nonfiction books for use during independent reading. After students have selected their books, allow them to read in a comfortable setting to complete the task.
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Strategy
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The task : identify a nonfiction feature that helped you to better understand the text and be able to explain how the feature aided in comprehension. Complete the nonfiction features chart. |
4. Students return to whole group meeting area in order to share their findings and engage in further discussion about nonfiction features.