April 9, 2020, Amid the COVID19 Pandemic, FB Live

Today it is pouring rain in Western Massachusetts! This is an introduction to the topic of “information text.” Next week my mini-lessons will be related to information text, otherwise known as “expository text.” It is not a “story!”

Today I want to show how authors always include information in their stories. We should look for it as we read. For instance, the information for the setting is a time and a place…BUT…what is happening at that time in that place is the important part for a story! The timing of a kick-off and how characters in the setting respond to the kick-off through feelings, thoughts, words and actions is finalized when the character makes a plan. How things turn out as a consequence depends on the actions (attempts) to carry out the plan and whether the plan is realized.

Download Handout Used In Session

The first week of these mini-lessons, I used the book, Are You Ready To Play Outside? by Mo Willems. This book is part of a series starring Gerald the Elephant and Piggy, the pig! I noted in my mini-lesson that you might want to look at this book for the concept that kick-offs (the rain) often occur gradually in many situations. The Covid19 virus tumultuous kick-off became apparent over time. The dire results of it, spurred by other related kick-offs, are being experienced throughout the world and talked about as the days go on.

Before using a book or video with my students/children anywhere, I analyze it for its complexity and how it relates to my students’ language needs.

I analyzed the book for elements of general knowledge or information used by the author while writing the story to make it interesting and a bit realistic. Maybe he studied the science of rain clouds and storms. He knew about elephants and pigs characteristics. We, as learners, could read two of Gail Gibbons’ books about Elephants and Pigs to learn more about the descriptions and habits of these Main Characters! Notice how Mo Willems incorporates information into his delightful story. My analysis talks about how to do this as support for our students.