Informational Text Book Hunt
The past two weeks my students have been preparing themselves for the End-Of-Grade (EOG) Test. My grade level decided to write out all the standards covered on the test for both Reading and Math. We then divided the standards amongst ourselves. We planned to teach a two hour block for reading and then for math for two days in a row (4 hours of each subject in total). Day One would be reviewing the content. Day Two would be an assessment and based on results, pulling a small group of students to review the skill. Students who received 80% or higher received project-based learning in that particular subject, while the other students were pulled for differentiated instruction.
The schedule allowed us to begin with our own students for the first two days, then rotate. Another teacher’s class would arrive to my classroom for the next consecutive days to receive the same two day instruction plan. My students would move to another teacher’s room to receive two day instruction on a different reading and math standard. The cycle was complete after two weeks so students could visit 5 classrooms.
My reading standard dealt with informational text. I set up a thorough Smart Board file with slides that included a review of information, Brain Pop or Discovery Education video supporting the topic, and an example from a text to apply the skill. Students also filled in a graphic organizer to record information about each skill.
Once students filled their knowledge tank, they began a “Book Hunt.” There were stations set up around the room with different informational text features like “this text has a glossary” or “this text has an index.”Students were to read the poster, find a book with that text feature, record the text title and author on a post-it, and place the post-it on the poster.
They then rotated to 10 other posters around the room. Students worked in pairs and raced around the room to locate informational text features.
I was happy to see students applying their knowledge correctly and with excitement. They truly understood the concept! Smiles all around 🙂
Want a graphic organizer activity for students to sort books and take notice of genre text features? Click here.
How do you prepare for state tests?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.
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