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R.1 Identify the informational text in stories

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Understanding Informational Text

Informational text gives facts about the world around us. It is meant to teach, explain, or share real information, not tell a made-up story.

Examples:
  • A book about how plants grow.
  • An article about the weather in different seasons.
Remember!

Informational text is about real things, real places, and real events.

Looking at the Title and Headings

The title tells you what the text is about. Headings break the text into sections so you can find information more easily.

Examples:
  • Title: "Animals in Winter" — tells you the topic is animals and the season of winter.
  • Heading: "What Animals Eat in Winter" — tells you the section is about food for animals in winter.
Tip

Read the title first, then look at the headings to know where to find the information you need.

Using Pictures and Diagrams

Pictures, diagrams, and charts help you understand the text better. They can show details that are not written in words.

Examples:
  • A diagram showing the life cycle of a butterfly.
  • A photograph of a desert landscape to show what it looks like.
Helpful Hint

Look closely at pictures and labels. They can give clues to help you understand the topic.

Finding Key Details

Key details are the important facts that help you learn about the topic. They answer questions like who, what, where, when, and how.

Examples:
  • Text: "Bees collect nectar from flowers to make honey." — Key detail: Bees make honey from nectar.
  • Text: "Penguins live in cold places near the ocean." — Key detail: Penguins live in cold areas.
Keep in Mind

Not every detail is a key detail. Focus on facts that teach you something new about the topic.

Asking and Answering Questions

When reading informational text, you can ask questions to help you understand. Look for answers in the words, pictures, and headings.

Examples:
  • Question: "What do turtles eat?" — Answer found in the text or picture captions.
  • Question: "Where do oak trees grow?" — Answer found in the section about habitats.
Final Thought

Good readers think about what they are learning and check the text for answers.