Introduction to Informational Texts: Basic Concepts Uncovered

I expect English 3B students to master the following concepts through identification, application and in-class participation:

1. Author's/Writer's Purpose
2. Intended/Unintended Audience(s)
3. Claims/Arguments - Inductive and Deductive
4. Supporting Details
5. Inferences/Conclusions
6. Topic Development (paragraphs, ideas, etc.)
7. Source (primary and/or secondary) Evaluation
8. Correct MLA Style/Guidelines
9. Logical versus Illogical (Fallacies) Reasoning
10. Credible Internet Sources
11. Appropriate Writing Conventions
12. Critical Reading Skills
13. Sound Analysis
14. Point of View
15. Tone/Mood
16. Figurative Language
17. Analogies
18. Proofreading and Editing Skills
19. Development of Sentence Structures (Simple, Compound, Complex, and Compound-Complex)
20. And many, many other important concepts to be unveiled as the semester continues ...

Assignments:

1. Please define the following words on teacher-approved note cards:

Analysis
Purpose
Audience
Primary Sources
Secondary Sources
Credibility
Writing Conventions
Analogy
Proofreading
Deductive and Inductive Reasoning
Tone/Mood
Supporting Details
Theme
Occasion/Setting
Critical Thinking
Denotation versus Connotation

Rather than write entire definitions for each word, students should illustrate the definitions.  For example, if I were illustrating <i>proofreading</i>, I might draw a person reading a paper with obvious grammatical errors.  The objective is, I believe, to illustrate images you associate with a given word - that is, how you identify with the denotative meaning.  What matters is how you will remember these words, so please consider that before starting.  You will, without a doubt, use these cards in the future (perhaps on a test).  If you are confused, please ask for teacher assistance. 

Note: You may include the dictionary definition with your illustration, if you find that practice more beneficial.  We all learn in different ways, through different methods, but this is a process I'd like each student to experience. 

2. Choose ONE informational text to read; it should be a lengthy book.  I will allow autobiographies (though many autobiographies are considered literary nonfiction by some individuals), but if you cannot find a book that interests you, please visit with me.  You are required to spend 15 minutes two school days a week on your self-directed readings, but I highly encourage students to take texts home, read a couple of nights a week, and start assignments once computers are available.  I will assign specific activities for certain books.  As you read your text, you will be required to post summaries and observations on this blog.  You will have your own page to manage, which I will help you create.