Nonfiction
What term describes the author's reason for writing a nonfiction piece, such as to inform, persuade, or entertain?
Purpose (author's purpose)
Examples: to inform, to persuade, to entertain.
In a research simulation task, what is a primary source? Give one example.
Original, first-hand evidence (e.g., diaries, interviews, original research data, letters, photographs).
What are the three main parts of a standard five-paragraph essay?
* Introduction
* Body paragraphs
* Conclusion.
Give TWO examples of signal words that indicate a comparison.
Similarly, likewise, alike, both.
Words or phrases around an unfamiliar word that help you infer its meaning.
________ ________
Context clues
Identify two features commonly found in nonfiction texts that help readers locate key information quickly.
headings/subheadings, table of contents, index, bolded terms, captions, bullet lists, glossaries.
When taking notes from sources, what is the difference between paraphrasing and quoting?
Paraphrasing = restating in your own words
Quoting = copying exact words with quotation marks and citation.
What should a clear topic sentence do in a body paragraph?
States the main idea of the paragraph and connects it to the thesis.
Give TWO examples of signal words that indicate a contrast.
However, on the other hand, whereas.
What does the word "bias" mean in the context of reading nonfiction?
A tendency to favor one perspective or outcome.
Explain how the author's tone differs from the author's purpose.
Tone = author's attitude (e.g., reflective, angry, humorous).
Purpose = reason for writing (inform/persuade/entertain).
Describe how to create a simple thesis statement for a research question.
Provide a clear thesis statement for the prompt: "How do plastic bags affect marine life?"
Thesis structure: state your claim clearly and briefly.
Example: "Plastic bags harm marine life by entangling animals, introducing toxic chemicals, and contributing to habitat disruption."
Describe two effective organizational structures for a compare-and-contrast essay.
*Block method (all of A then all of B)
*Point method (alternate points about A and B)
Give the meaning of "objective" versus "subjective."
Objective = based on facts
Subjective = based on personal feelings or opinions
Given a nonfiction article with an implied main idea (not directly stated), name TWO strategies a reader can use to determine the implied main idea.
Look at repeated ideas, examine topic sentences of paragraphs, summarize supporting details.
You have three sources with slightly different claims about a topic. Explain how you would synthesize those sources in your research task response.
Synthesis approach: identify points of agreement/disagreement, weigh evidence, connect to thesis.
Provide a short example (1–2 sentences) of an implied main idea with supporting evidence.
"Community gardens improve neighborhood health" supported by facts about increased fresh produce access and community involvement.