Ecosystems: Unit Overview
This unit is built around developing skills in using information sources. In the first two lessons, students learn the textual and non-textual elements of information books. From the Table of Contents to the Index and everything in between, the students learn what makes up the books that give us real information. Next, students use information books and their newly acquired skills to find facts and write a short comic. This is a creative writing extension to the lesson. Finally, students use a digital information source to find and record five new facts from a popular, kid-friendly website. By the end of the unit, students should have increased skill in navigating and working with information sources. This is a lot to ask of young learners, but I believe that they are capable of mastering the material. And, when they do, they will be able to read nonfiction with greater confidence.
Ecosystems #1: Non-Fiction Texts, Part 1
Lesson Overview: In the next two lessons, students work on understanding non-fiction texts. Book design is non-standard. That means that our students must navigate various forms, layouts, and designs to find and use information. In these lessons, students learn the elements or components of non-fiction texts in the hopes that… Read more
Ecosystems #2: Non-Fiction Texts, Part 2
Lesson Overview: In this lesson, student complete work on understanding non-fiction texts. Last week students worked on textual elements of non-fiction books. Today they will work on non-textual elements in non-fiction books. If they know how information books are “built,” they will be more likely to work confidently and use… Read more
Ecosystems #3: Five Facts and a Story
Lesson Overview: In this lesson, students gather five facts from a nonfiction text. Then, they use one or more of those facts to write an original story in comic book format. It’s a sure winner because kids love to make comics! The lovely Corinna Mansfield, currently at Renaissance College in… Read more
Ecosystems #4: Print vs Digital Information Sources
Lesson Overview: In this lesson, students compare print and digital information sources. Most of the students are familiar with both print books and digital devices, but the comparison is a good exercise. It asks them to think critically and objectively about what each kind of source can do for them,… Read more