Informational Text

Our students have been working hard on their report writing for the past few weeks. Each student chose a state for the topic of their report. We have researched information through books as well as on the computer. Students took their notes and turned them into chapters for their reports. Each report includes a table of contents, introduction, at least 3 chapters about their state, a procedural of how to make something or do something (like a dance) that pertains to their state, a conclusion and finally a map that locates their state. They also included pictures with captions. Students typed their final pieces on the computer and learned how to copy and paste images onto their page. They also made a cover that included a dedication and a summary. Wow!! Here are a few examples of some of the chapters in our reports. We are so proud of all their hard work!!

Partner Reading

For the past few weeks, we have been studying informational text. Students have been reading nonfiction books during Readers' workshop and are learning about the different text features in a nonfiction passage. Today, students read an informational text with a partner. They then wrote a response in their reading journals about what they learned from their book. We are learning some interesting facts about all kinds of things! What a fun learning filled day we had in Readers' workshop!

Here is a sample of one student's response.

Dear Mrs. Shaffer and Mrs. Nelson,                                                                                      2-4-13
When I was partner reading with Ava, we read the informational text called Birds by Nicola Davies. It is about birds and how they use their feet to grab stuff and much more.
While reading, I learned
1. That some birds' skeletons are lighter than all their feathers. This makes it easier to fly.
2. Some baby birds are born with no feathers but grow them later.
3. The Toucan's bill is long and light because it is hollow.
I recommend this book to students who enjoy learning about birds.
Sincerely,
Ivy