Nonfiction Texts

Worksheet Description

This Synthesis worksheet is tailored for students engaging with nonfiction texts, guiding them to synthesize information before, during, and after reading. The worksheet asks students to record what they already know about the topic, the sources of their pre-existing knowledge, their thoughts while reading, what new information they learn, how their thinking changes after reading, and their new understanding of the topic. This structured approach helps students to activate prior knowledge, track their learning process, and integrate new information with what they already know.

The worksheet teaches students the critical skill of synthesis, which is essential for understanding complex nonfiction material. It encourages them to be reflective readers who are aware of their cognitive processes, helping them to build connections between new and old information. The task of identifying how their understanding evolves as they read enhances their ability to think critically about texts. This process not only aids in comprehension but also prepares students to articulate their insights and learning outcomes from nonfiction readings.