Types of Nonfiction
a true story about a person's life written by that same person
Autobiography
Informational
notes the names of each chapter or section and gives page numbers
table of contents
sequence
-inform
-persuade
-explain
-entertain
author's purpose
Textbook
Persuasive
words that are in bold print, italics, underlined, or highlighted to help the reader know that the word is important
special print
Popsicles and ice cream bars are both cold, refreshing treats to have on hot days. They are both served on a stick and they need to be stored in the freezer. Both melt quickly when they are eaten. However, there are some differences, as well. Popicles are made primarily of water, while ice cream bars have a creamy ice cream in the middle.
compare and contrast
a description about an event or topic by a person who usually is not at the event.
secondary source
A conversation between two people where questions and answers are exchanged
Interview
Nonfiction writing that tells a TRUE STORY
provides info about a photo or illustration
caption
The Pilgrims' trip on the Mayflower wasn't pleasant. They spent 66 straight days on the Mayflower, the ship that carried them from their old homes in England to their new life in America. The majority were seasick FROM the rocky waves. To make matters worse, they had no privacy and they only had a chamber pot for a toilet. Most of the time they were bored. They even suffered injuries FROM being thrown around during storms.
cause and effect
The writer's most important message about the topic. It tells what the whole text will be about.
Controlling idea or thesis
a true story about a person's life written by someone else
biography
Nonfiction writing that creates a mood or to recreate an actual person or event (often includes sensory language)
Descriptive
boxed text that provides more in-depth or additional information about the topic
sidebar/textbox
A blizzard is a severe snowstorm usually accompanied by high winds, blowing snow, and very cold temperatures. The National Weather Service defines blizzards as large amount of falling or blowing snow with winds above 35 mph, and less than one-quarter mile visibility for three or more hours.
One famous famous blizzard was named the Schoolhouse Blizzard of 1888. It hit the Plains States one January day, stranding students in their one room schoolhouses. About 235 people died, mot of the school-aged kids who tried to walk home and couldn't find their way in the whiteout conditions.
description
a first-hand account telling of an event or topic
primary source
A writing piece focuses on ONE topic.
The author writes it to inform or persuade.
Article
If you are going to compete in a bike race, you need to eat a good breakfast. You should eat toast, fruit, and some yogurt. Try to eat at least 3 hours before the race.
Persuasive
tells the names of parts of a diagram, photo, or illustration
label
Decorating a Christmas tree is an annual holiday tradition in American homes. Most people don't think about how harmful it is for the environment. Cutting down a tree just to decorate for a few weeks is not a good action for the environment. Good news! There are solutions. One answer is to buy a real tree from a local grower that still has live roots. After Christmas is over, the tree can be replanted in your yard or garden.
problem & solution
a personal and often unreasonable judgement or prejudice
bias