Issues & Informational Text: Generation Snowflake

Invite your students to explore and discuss current issues through non-fiction, informational texts. This product provides you with several options that will engage your students as they read, view, think, discuss and write. You will also have the option to use the materials in a classroom setting or for distance learning.

This product is included in my growing Exploring Issues and Informational Text Bundle if you want to save. * If you are using this primarily for distance learning, get this bundle.

Option One: This is the quickest option. Introduce the topic with class discussion and a short reading. Students will read a magazine-style article (available in handout or digital versions) and view one or more TED Talks. They will follow this with some discussion and further written reflection (adapted for online version).

Option Two: After completing the tasks for option one, you can extend the exercise by using mentor passages. I have provided passages that are focused on different aspects of the topic, and that illustrate some of the common elements of strong writing. These passages are meant to serve two purposes: each one explores ideas that students can consider on the topic, and they provide models for students to emulate in the writing they will do later. (Included: a handout that explains how to use the mentor passages and slides to teach your students what to do with them).

Option Three: Extend the exercise further with a writing assignment or presentation based on the topic. There are instructions and an assessment checklist all of which are editable.

Included:

• A slideshow to guide your discussion and instruction (there is a separate one for distance learning)
• A magazine-style article that introduces the topic in teen-friendly language
• Mentor passages
• Links to relevant videos
• A Google Doc with all of the links you will need to share with students
• Editable assignments and checklists

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