Lesson Plan: Writing - Layout and Presentation in Non-Fiction Writing

Subject: Languages (English) Topic: Writing - Layout and Presentation in Non-Fiction Writing Level: Second Level (Scottish Curriculum)

Desired Outcome: I consider the impact that layout and presentation will have and can combine lettering, graphics, and other features to engage my reader.

Lesson Duration: 60 minutes

Resources: - Whiteboard or flipchart - Markers - Handout with examples of non-fiction texts - Colored pencils or markers - Blank sheets of paper - Access to computers or tablets (optional)

Introduction (10 minutes): 1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever read a non-fiction book or article. Discuss their experiences and what they found engaging about the layout and presentation of those texts. 2. Explain that today’s lesson will focus on the importance of layout and presentation in non-fiction writing and how it can engage the reader. 3. Share the desired outcome with the students: “By the end of this lesson, you will be able to consider the impact that layout and presentation will have and combine lettering, graphics, and other features to engage your reader.”

Main Activities (40 minutes):

Activity 1: Analyzing Non-Fiction Texts (15 minutes): 1. Distribute the handout with examples of non-fiction texts to each student. 2. In pairs or small groups, ask students to examine the texts and identify the different elements of layout and presentation that make them engaging. 3. After 10 minutes, gather the students’ responses and discuss them as a whole class. Write down their observations on the whiteboard or flipchart.

Activity 2: Designing a Non-Fiction Page (20 minutes): 1. Explain to the students that they will now have the opportunity to design their own non-fiction page. 2. Provide each student with a blank sheet of paper and colored pencils or markers. 3. Ask the students to choose a non-fiction topic they are interested in (e.g., animals, sports, history). 4. Instruct them to create a visually appealing non-fiction page using the layout and presentation techniques discussed earlier. 5. Encourage students to include headings, subheadings, bullet points, images, captions, and any other features they believe will engage their reader. 6. Circulate the classroom, providing support and guidance as needed.

Activity 3: Sharing and Reflecting (5 minutes): 1. Once the students have completed their non-fiction pages, ask them to share their work with a partner or in small groups. 2. Encourage students to discuss what they like about each other’s designs and how they have used layout and presentation techniques effectively. 3. Conclude the activity by having a few students share their work with the whole class, explaining their design choices and how they believe it will engage their reader.

Conclusion (5 minutes): 1. Recap the main points discussed during the lesson, emphasizing the importance of layout and presentation in non-fiction writing. 2. Remind students of the desired outcome: “I consider the impact that layout and presentation will have and can combine lettering, graphics, and other features to engage my reader.” 3. Encourage students to apply these techniques in their future non-fiction writing assignments.

Extension Activity (optional): For students who finish early or as a homework assignment, ask them to create a digital version of their non-fiction page using a computer or tablet. They can use software or online tools to design their page, incorporating additional multimedia elements such as videos or interactive features.

Assessment: Assessment can be conducted through observation during the activities, reviewing students’ completed non-fiction pages, and their ability to explain their design choices and how they engage the reader.