Introduce nonfiction paragraph structure with a slideshow and practice worksheets. Third or fourth grade students locate the topic sentence to find the main idea. To uncover supporting details, they discriminate between sentences that reinforce the topic sentence and which simply elaborate.

This resource provides the foundation for understanding informational text structure. A hamburger analogy helps beginners grasp the paragraph format common to nonfiction writing. Then the teacher uses a five-paragraph essay to illustrate how its structure is similar.

Open the preview to take a closer look at the bundle.

First, a mini lesson teaches the structure of a nonfiction paragraph.

• Kids learn that the topic sentence expresses the main idea, detail sentences provide support, and the conclusion wraps it up.
• A hamburger analogy illustrates these parts, and an example shows where they are found.

Second, kids practice with three worksheets.

• Each includes a one-paragraph passage about famous fairy tale authors.
• Kids circle the topic and concluding sentences.
• They underline the detail sentences.
• Then they tell the main idea of the paragraph.

Third, the teacher presents a five-paragraph essay on fairy tale authors.

• Passages from the worksheets make up the detail paragraphs.
• An introductory paragraph expresses the main idea in a thesis statement. It also introduces the three supporting details.
• A conclusion repeats the main idea in different words and wraps up the essay.
• On a separate sheet, the paragraph is shown with a hamburger organizer. This shows that the structure for a longer piece remains the same but is expanded.

The lesson can be used in a variety of ways.

• Whole class reading instruction
• Small group work, remediation, or tutoring
• Sub plans
• Homeschool

Everything you need to scaffold understanding is included:

• Introductory slideshow (PowerPoint or Google Slides)
• Lesson plans
• Hamburger graphic organizer
• 3 worksheets, each with a one-paragraph passage
• Five-paragraph essay (with and without hamburger overlay)
• Answer keys
• Bonus file with quick planner, lesson plans, links, and teaching tips

A variety of formats are included:

• The slideshow can be presented in PowerPoint or Google Slides.
• Student sheets are available as a printable PDF and digital Easel Activities.

Your third or fourth grade students will love it – and you will too!

• The fairy tale topics engage young learners.
• Working with single paragraphs gives kids the early practice they need.
• Scaffolding to five paragraphs helps them understand that nonfiction structure remains the same.
• Activities address the intent of your informational text standards. For example, if you teach RL.3.2 or RL.4.2, your students will understand how to find the main idea of a paragraph. Additionally, they’ll be ready to tackle longer essays.

Looking for more? If your kids are ready to tackle longer pieces, check out these high-interest passages. Multi-paragraph informational texts explore urban myths. Kids identify the main idea and supporting details. Then they summarize.

Enjoy teaching!

Brenda Kovich

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