Activity: Exploring Different Types of Texts

Desired Outcome: Using what I know about the features of different types of texts, I can find, select, sort, summarize, link, and use information from different sources.

Level: Third Level (Scottish Curriculum)

Focus: Respect

Introduction: 1. Begin the activity by discussing the importance of respecting different types of texts and the information they provide. 2. Explain that in this activity, students will explore various types of texts and practice finding, selecting, sorting, summarizing, linking, and using information from different sources.

Activity Steps:

Step 1: Types of Texts (15 minutes) 1. Provide students with a list of different types of texts, such as newspapers, magazines, websites, books, brochures, etc. 2. In small groups, ask students to discuss and identify the features of each type of text. 3. Encourage students to consider the purpose, structure, language, and layout of each text type. 4. After the discussion, ask each group to share their findings with the class.

Step 2: Finding and Selecting Information (20 minutes) 1. Provide students with a selection of texts, such as newspaper articles, online articles, and book excerpts, related to a specific topic (e.g., climate change, endangered species, etc.). 2. In pairs, ask students to read the texts and identify key information related to the topic. 3. Encourage students to use highlighting or underlining techniques to mark the important information. 4. After reading, have students discuss their findings with their partners and select the most relevant information.

Step 3: Sorting and Summarizing Information (20 minutes) 1. Provide students with a graphic organizer or a table with different categories related to the topic (e.g., causes, effects, solutions, etc.). 2. In pairs or small groups, ask students to sort and categorize the selected information from Step 2 into the appropriate categories. 3. Encourage students to summarize each category using bullet points or short sentences. 4. After completing the sorting and summarizing task, have students share their findings with the class.

Step 4: Linking Information (15 minutes) 1. Discuss with students the importance of linking information from different sources to gain a broader understanding of a topic. 2. Provide students with additional texts related to the topic from Step 2. 3. In pairs or small groups, ask students to read the new texts and identify any additional information that can be linked to the previously sorted and summarized information. 4. Encourage students to discuss and make connections between the new information and the existing categories. 5. After the discussion, have students update their graphic organizers or tables with the new information.

Step 5: Using Information (15 minutes) 1. Ask students to individually reflect on how they can use the information they have gathered and organized to create a presentation, write an essay, or engage in a class discussion about the topic. 2. Encourage students to consider the different perspectives and viewpoints presented in the texts and how they can incorporate them into their own work. 3. Provide students with the opportunity to share their ideas with the class.

Conclusion: 1. Summarize the activity by emphasizing the importance of respecting different types of texts and the information they provide. 2. Discuss how the skills practiced in this activity, such as finding, selecting, sorting, summarizing, linking, and using information, can be applied in various real-life situations. 3. Encourage students to continue exploring different types of texts and using them respectfully to enhance their understanding of various topics.