Researching a Topic
Applying research skills to write short reports that explain a topic clearly to an audience.
Key Questions
- Differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources for information.
- Explain how to gather facts from multiple sources about a single topic.
- Design a plan for researching a new animal or historical event.
Ontario Curriculum Expectations
Suggested Methodologies
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Planning templates for Language Arts
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An English Language Arts template structured around reading, writing, speaking, and language skills, with sections for text selection, close reading, discussion, and written response.
unit plannerThematic Unit
Organize a multi-week unit around a central theme or essential question that cuts across topics, texts, and disciplines, helping students see connections and build deeper understanding.
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More in Information Detectives: Non-Fiction and Inquiry
Using Headings and Subheadings
Using headings, captions, and diagrams to locate and understand key information efficiently.
2 methodologies
Interpreting Captions and Diagrams
Students will learn to extract information from captions, labels, and simple diagrams.
2 methodologies
Glossaries and Bold Words
Exploring how glossaries and bolded words help readers understand new vocabulary in informational texts.
2 methodologies
Identifying the Main Idea
Distinguishing between the main topic of a text and the supporting details that provide more information.
3 methodologies
Summarizing Informational Texts
Students will practice summarizing short informational texts by identifying key facts and main ideas.
2 methodologies