This week, students and I have been exploring what we know as readers about nonfiction text.

We know…

• There are many kinds of nonfiction
• There are many topics explored by writers
• There are many “parts” to a nonfiction text
• There are “familiar” parts that help us find our way around (table of contents, index, glossary…)

Not every book or every part of the nonfiction book is necessary on our quest for information and understanding. It is important for children to understand that they can not (nor do they want to) remember and know everything. 

Not all books are created equal. Not all books fit our needs as readers. Some will “fit” our purpose and others will be need to be abandoned. Either way, we have to have a plan . One that will allow us to focus, mine data, and get to understanding efficiently and effectively. 

We are lucky to have students like, Mary Ann, who are willing to share theirs with us.