Elements of Nonfiction Summer class 2003

Quality of Information

Accuracy of information

Information can be verified with other sources

Information is as current as possible

Information is sequenced to assist the reader’s understanding

Sources of information are included (references, source notes)

Information should be thorough

Information is written from a neutral (nonbiased) point of view

Theme, Tone, and Style

Written in a style and tone that encourages the reader to continue to investigate

Illustrations compliment, don’t over power the message

Includes a table of contents, glossary, and index

Has a theme(s)

Has a conclusion

Activities for nonfiction elements

Questions for students to evaluate nonfiction

Check sheet with elements

Have students complete check sheets with ratings of different elements and use to evaluate the criteria later as a year long study of nonfiction and could also use from year to year to make comparisons