There are many benefits to including nonfiction in all your literacy instruction. It’s also something that can be done, in all areas of literacy. From small groups, to whole group read alouds, to independent work, and center activities. Read on to find out ways to use nonfiction in all your literacy instruction.
Nonfiction Texts In all settings
It is very possible to use use nonfiction texts in all settings, in your classroom. Below, I provide a list of ways to do just that!
Whole group: A whole group read aloud is a great time to use more challenging texts. You’ll want to include books with incredible, jaw-dropping photos. This increases interest in the text. You’ll also want to pause, while reading aloud, to discuss what is learned. You can focus on nonfiction text features via a think aloud, showing what you are learning.
You can also watch short videos, as a class, on BrainPop, or YouTube, for example. These videos can be followed up with a student led discussion. It’s important to expose students to nonfiction, in a variety of formats, to reach all types of learners.
Small groups: Students can read nonfiction texts at their instructional reading level, in small guided reading groups. You can provide guidance, where needed, but the focus is on the reader, doing the reading.
Close Reading: This can be done in small groups, or as a whole class. Students will dig deep while reading nonfiction texts, with a new purpose for each read. They can focus on content specific vocabulary, as well as various other informational text standards.
Independent Reading
Centers: A fluency center is a great spot to include nonfiction texts. If focusing on fluency, students should be provided nonfiction texts at their independent reading level. This is so they can focus on improving all aspects of fluency, without getting discouraged. Students can work on their accuracy, rate, and comprehension of nonfiction texts, while in a fluency center.
Independent work: When working on their own, students can focus on reading nonfiction texts at their independent reading level. It is important to not let them get frustrated when reading on their own. Otherwise, they may lose interest in nonfiction texts. Adding nonfiction texts into their independent reading time can lead to a love of informational texts. This is a great time where students can just be reading for enjoyment!
Home connection: You can also send home nonfiction texts at students’ independent reading level, for extra practice.
The goal with all of these activities is to expose students to nonfiction, often, in a variety of ways. Not only will students be learning about new topics, but they’ll also become more comfortable with the nonfiction genre. This is very important since we know students will spend their lives reading informational texts!
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