Language Arts: Informational Text Features
Using headings, captions, diagrams, and other nonfiction features
Language Arts: Informational Text Features
Using headings, captions, diagrams, and other nonfiction features
Language Arts - Grade 4-5
- 1
What is the purpose of a heading in an informational text?
Think about how a heading helps organize sections on a page.
A heading tells the main idea of a section and helps the reader know what that part of the text will be about. - 2
A page has a photograph of a volcano with words underneath it. What is this text feature called, and what does it do for the reader?
This text feature is called a caption. A caption explains the photograph and gives the reader more information about what is shown. - 3
How does a table of contents help a reader use a nonfiction book?
Think about what helps you turn to the right page.
A table of contents lists the sections or chapters and their page numbers, so the reader can quickly find the topic they need. - 4
What can a reader learn from labels on a diagram?
Labels on a diagram name the parts of something and help the reader understand where each part is and what it is called. - 5
A student wants to find the meaning of a bold word in a nonfiction book. Which text feature would most likely help, and why?
Look for the feature that explains vocabulary words.
The glossary would most likely help because it gives definitions of important words used in the book. - 6
What is the purpose of an index at the back of a book?
An index helps the reader find specific topics or key words by listing them in alphabetical order with page numbers. - 7
How is a diagram different from a photograph in an informational text?
One feature often points out parts with labels.
A diagram is a drawing or visual that is often labeled to show parts or steps, while a photograph shows a real image of a person, place, or thing. - 8
Why might an author put important words in bold print?
An author might use bold print to make important words stand out and show the reader that those words may need special attention or be defined elsewhere. - 9
What does a map in an informational text help a reader understand?
Think about how a map gives information about places.
A map helps a reader understand location, distance, direction, and where places are in relation to one another. - 10
A nonfiction article has the title 'Life in the Rainforest' and a subheading called 'Animals of the Canopy.' What does the subheading tell the reader?
The subheading tells the reader that this section will focus on animals that live in the canopy part of the rainforest. - 11
Explain how a chart or graph can help a reader better understand information.
Think about how numbers and data can be easier to read in a visual form.
A chart or graph helps a reader organize facts, compare information, and notice patterns or changes more easily. - 12
Why is it helpful for informational texts to include more than one text feature on a page?
It is helpful because different text features give information in different ways, which can help the reader understand the topic more clearly and find facts more quickly.