reading nonfiction using sticky notes (freebie included)

My first graders love to read nonfiction (mainly books about animals).

During guided reading groups, we pulled out the small sticky notes. I told them to put a sticky note next to interesting facts. Other times, I've told them to put the sticky notes next to things that they learned on a page. I've also had them put sticky notes next to facts that they think are important for them to remember. Then we'll go back and reread to together, sharing what they marked. They love using sticky notes! I give them a limit so they have to limit what they choose. (Otherwise some go sticky crazy!) I love using this strategy because it's an easy, concrete way to help with comprehension.

I usually use the sticky notes on their own, but I've also created this worksheet to use on occasion. You could have your students record the important facts on this page: 

 ...or this page, which has them find the main idea and then write the details on the "sticky notes".

Then, they could use those facts to guide them to write nonfiction.

Click on any picture to download these freebies.

Check back soon for a post about nonfiction text features.