This is a lesson for 2nd - 3rd graders. This lesson is intended to be used as practice in locating the text features of nonfiction materials. An introduction to the text features terms should have already been done.
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MLS Reading 2.R.1.A.a Know and use various text features to locate key facts or information in a text efficiently.
1 class period of 30 minutes
Students will use magazines to identify common nonfiction text features.
Missouri Conservationist magazine or other nonfiction-type magazine
Magazines are free to Missouri residents and can be ordered here - https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/
Address label stickers
Preparation before the lesson: Gather a class supply of nonfiction magazines. The Missouri Conservationist is a good choice as it includes many of the most common text features. Go through the magazine and identify common text features such as photograph, table of contents, diagram, labels, maps, caption, bullets, URLs, graphs, bold print, etc. Using address labels, print the terms to be used. You may use two terms per label. Also include a label for the student to write their name. Then cut a section of labels for each student.
During the lesson: Hand out magazines and labels. Use the name label for students to attach to their magazine as they get to keep them. Review with students the nonfiction text feature terms. Working as a whole class, say a term for the students to find in the magazine. Students turn to page and decide if that is a correct label. Then students peel label to stick on the magazine. The Missouri Conservationist usually has at least 10-12 text features. Students can take the magazine home when finished with lesson.
Visual assessment by the librarian/teacher may be done as the activity progresses. This is a hands-on, whole group activity before formal assessments.
