1. A guide to support comprehending non-fiction text
Non-Fiction Texts
A guide to support comprehending non-fiction text

2. Characteristics of Nonfiction text
Looks different from fiction: In addition to chapterr title, there are headings and possible sub headings throughout the text.
Variety of fonts and type sizes
Bold faced and italicized words
Pronunciation marks (diacritical markings)

3. Characteristics of non-fiction text
Graphic aids are usually included
Explain the information
Give additional information
Contain captions or labels

4. Characteristics of non-fiction text
Domain-specific vocabulary
Multi-syllabic words
Sometimes difficult to pronounce

5. Characteristics of Non-fiction text
There is a lot of information to remember
You cannot just read it once
Notes and annotations are necessary

6. How do I understand non-fiction text?
I have good news! There are reading tools to help support you!

7. Step 1: Preview the text
Read the Title: this will give you the topic of the article or text
Read the Introduction and the headings to find out the main idea you’re going to read about. They are clues to let you know what to expect.

8. Step 2: Predict what you are going to read
Look for special features and ask yourself questions.
Are there diagrams?
Do you see a map or chart?
Do the graphic aids illustrate what you read or add new information?
THEY ARE THERE FOR A REASON! DON’T IGNORE!

9. Step 3: Read and Annotate
Read the article slowly
Look for helpful features in the text and take notes
Words in boldfaced type signal important vocabulary that you need to remember
Pronunciations let you know how to say difficult words
If the author asks you to look at a chart or picture, make sure to look at the graphic aid and captions carefully
Look for key ideas and details
Write down any questions you may have.

10. Step 4: What does the Text say?
Summarize the text
Quote accurately from the text
Central Ideas and key details

11. Step 5: How does the text work?
Determine the meanings of words
Describe the author’s point of view
Analyze the structure of the text

12. Author’s Purpose/Point of View
First, second, third person
Why did the author write this?
What are the author’s feelings and beliefs on the topic?

13. Non-Fiction Text Structure
Compare and Contrast
Sequence of Events
Problem and Solution
Description
Cause and Effect

14. Step 6: What does the text mean?
Make inferences
Analyze the text
Synthesize the information

15. Step 7: Write about the Text
To fully check your understanding
On Demand Writing
Follow the steps of the writing process.