Non-Fiction Explorer
To develop understanding of non-fiction texts and how they differ from stories.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Distinguishes non-fiction from fiction
- Uses contents page with support
- Asks questions about texts
- Records information found
Materials
- Topic-related non-fiction books
- Magnifying glasses
- Question cards
- Drawing materials for recording
Instructions
Have a good collection of non-fiction texts on current interests — sharks, volcanoes, space, dinosaurs, butterflies. Make these physically available in the book corner alongside story books.
Show children how non-fiction looks different from stories: 'This book isn't a story — it's an information book! Look, it doesn't start 'once upon a time'. It has photos! And this page at the front tells us what's inside — it's called the contents.'
Model using the contents page to find information: 'I want to find out about what sharks eat. Let's see... contents... Shark Food is on page twelve. Let me turn to page twelve...' This powerful behaviour introduces information retrieval.
Read captions aloud: 'This writing is next to the picture — it's called a caption. It tells us: 'A shark's teeth are replaced throughout its life.' Wow — how many sets of teeth do you think a shark has?'
Introduce the concept of questions driving reading: 'What do you want to find out about sharks today? Tell me your question and we'll look for the answer.' This frames non-fiction reading as purposeful inquiry.
Let children record their 'most amazing fact' in drawing or writing: 'What was the most amazing thing you found out?' Value fact-finding as an intellectual achievement.