Ohioana Authors Curriculum
Links to Non-Fiction Lessons
The I-Search Curriculum Unit
Source: Literacy Matters
-
Education Development Center
The I-Search is one type of inquiry-based research process frequently used in middle and high school classrooms. The term "I-Search" was coined by Ken Macrorie in his book The I-Search Paper (Heinemann, 1988). The overall goal of the I-Search is to actively engage students in the research process as they pursue questions of importance that they care about.
Putting the Truth in Writing: Exploring the
Genre of Nonfiction Writing in the Language Arts Classroom
Source: New York Time Company - The Learning
Network
In this lesson, students examine nonfiction writing and its role in preserving history. Students assess the Modern Library’s list of the 100 Best Nonfiction Books written first in English in the 20th century, as well as discuss what criteria determine whether or not a piece of nonfiction writing is 'good.' Students then read one of the books from the list and analyze the work by completing a writing activity of their choice.
Prize-Winning Prose: Developing "Kids'
Pulitzers"
Source: New York Time Company - The Learning
Network
Students develop criteria for 'Kids’ Pulitzers,' awards in categories of writing determined by the students. Each student will then bestow a 'Kids’ Pulitzer' upon a piece of writing which they deem to be distinguished based on the established criteria.
Reading
Response Journals: Writing After Reading is Revealing! (article)
Source: Education World
Tips to help teachers establish effective journal-writing experiences.
Author Study Unit
Source: Saskatchewan Education
During an author study, students can examine the writer's craft in depth, and identify and categorize a variety of elements of style (e.g., imagery, metaphor, hyperbole, connotation, alliteration, understatement), providing that the study of elements does not detract from the enjoyment of the reading.
