Notes: Text Features

What is a reader’s purpose?

A reader determines what is important.

Authors present and organize information using text features.

Why do we need text features?

®   Identify important ideas

®   Preview information

®   Clues to understand information

®   Organize information

What do text features look like?

·        Headings and Subheadings

·        Bold or Italic Print

·        Illustrations and Captions

·        Table of Contents

·        Index

·        Glossary

·        Body of Text

Group Work Courtesy Policy

Students received a copy of these policies in class, and they must keep these policies in their composition notebook.

1. I will manage my time and follow directions to complete the group activity.

2. I will contribute and participate. If I do not understand the activity, I will ask my group to explain. I will also check that my whole group understands the lesson. If we still do not understand the lesson, I will ask Ms. Avery.

3. I understand off-topic conversation distracts my group, and I will get an M.I.R. for Respect and Focus.

4. I am aware of other groups and individuals working in the classroom. If my group is finished with the assignment early, I should read at my desk so that I am not distracting other groups.

5. I control my actions. If someone in my group is not working, I will encourage them to stay involved. I understand Ms. Avery may issue an M.I.R. for Respect if I mock a classmate’s effort.

The First and Last 5 Minutes of Class

It is important for middle school students to learn self-directed procedures. When students enter the class, they have three tasks to accomplish before we begin the lesson.
1. Update your reading log. I expect students to read an average 30 minutes each night, or an average 150 minutes per week.
2. If you have pencils, sharpen them now. You may also use the tissues and hand sanitizer. I do not want students walking around the room during instruction.
3. Finally, if you have an extra minute, you may check out a book or read at your desk.

At the end of every class students should:
1. Fill out their agenda with a summary word of today's lesson and any homework. Remember you always have reading homework.
2. Collect all your supplies and place them on your desk.
3. You may check out a book.

Salutations!

One of my favorite characters greets her new friend in this way. She explains, "It's just my way of saying hello." Like this character, I am inviting you to be open to this year's opportunities of learning. I will encourage you to be the best version of yourself much like my favorite character helping her friend. Who is my favorite character of classic children's literature?