Mastering Text StructureBeach Ball Strategy

Reading Non-Fiction Text1. Preview the text.

Read the title Read the introduction Read the headings

2. Notice the special features/illustrations.3. Predict what you're going to read about.4. Identify the text structure (based on author’s purpose).5. Activate your schema (a representation of a plan or theory in the form of an

outline or model).6. Read-pay attention to:

1. Special font styles2. Pronunciations3. Special features

7. Re-check text structure.8. Summarize/Retell important information (on paper or in your head).

Sequence: to covey events or steps that must be presented in order.Write a paragraph describing the sequence of how to blow up a beach ball.Be sure to:1) Include all of the steps in order.

I will model the steps as you describe them, so be VERY specific!2) Use signal words like “first, before, next, etc.”

Sequence and Timeline Example

Before playing with the beach ball, the following sequence of preparing it must be followed. First, the ball is taken out of the package and unfolded. Next, the thumb and index finger pinch the nozzle of the beach ball. Then, take a deep breath and blow air through the nozzle into the ball. Remember to stop frequently to take deep breaths. Once the ball is blown up, put the plug into the nozzle and then push it down into the ball. Finally, the ball is ready to toss around and play with!

Description: just to describe

Write a paragraph describing the characteristics of the beach ball (Remember: details, details, details!!!).

Be sure to: Toss the ball GENTLY and explore it. Use your senses (touch, smell, etc.) What signal words should be used? Share your

description with a partner.

Description ExampleA beach ball is a three dimensional circle, or a

sphere. It’s characteristics include a plastic smell, and it is very light, despite its size. Beach balls can vary in design, but this one has large stripes of bright color. Beach balls can be easily tossed, caught, kicked, and passed. Because of their large size once blown up, they are easy to handle. Do be careful, because the light plastic can snag on something sharp and pop.

Cause and Effect: to explain evidence of cause and effect Write a paragraph describing the positive

effects of playing with the beach ball as a class. Be sure to:

Discuss as a class what it was like to play. Focus on the positive effects. Share your paragraph with a partner.

Cause and Effect Example

Playing with the beach ball as a group can cause positive effects since just doing something a little different creates positive feelings for the participants. Because of the activity, everyone feels more awake with the movement and are happy to be part of a group. Tossing and catching leads to an opportunity to experience many characteristics of the ball, such as what it feels like, how it sounds, and how easy it is to pass back and forth. Finally, playing with the ball is a fun experience that causes many students to enjoy the class more than usual.

Problem and Solution: describe a problem, the solution and the steps to get there

Write a paragraph about a possible problem you might encounter with a beach ball and the steps you would take to solve it.

Be sure to: Brainstorm problems that could happen. Write about one problem, the steps to solve it, and

a desired solution.

Problem and Solution Example

“Pop!” Imagine playing catch with a beach ball when out of nowhere a dog runs up and catches it in his mouth. Consequently the ball now has a hole in it. Some possible steps to solve this problem would be to get some duct tape and cover the hole. If that doesn’t work, another possible solution would be to use some liquid rubber and fill the hole. If all else fails, go to the store and get another ball. After all, the desired solution is to continue playing with the ball!

Compare and Contrast: to present likenesses and differences Write a paragraph comparing a beach ball to a

hacky sack. Be sure to:

A hacky sack is traditionally passed from person to person via any part of the body but the hands.

Explore the hacky sack with your senses (sight, smell, etc.).

Process the information using a Venn diagram. Share your paragraph with a partner.

Compare and Contrast ExampleWhile both the beach ball and the hacky sacks are

spheres that people play with, there are several differences. The beach ball is large, filled with air, and very lightweight. On the other hand, the hacky sack is small enough to fit inside a fist; it’s filled with beads; and it’s fairly heavy for its size. It has a lot of mass. Both can be played in groups. But the beach ball is usually tossed by hand, while the hacky sack is generally kicked.

Argument & Evidence: to convince the reader to do or believe something based on evidence

Write a paragraph that argues your position on which is better: a beach ball or hacky sack. You should support your argument with evidence.

Be sure to: Brainstorm pros and cons. Show examples of counter arguments.

Argument & Evidence Example

It is true that both a beach ball and a hacky sack are fun to play with. But the beach ball is better because of its versatility and ease. It can be folded up into a very small package and it’s easy to transport in a pocket, backpack or purse. It’s easy to blow up, so it can be used at the beach, at a park, inside or outside. A hacky sack requires skill to catch and pass with a foot, so a beach ball is much easier to play with. It can be tossed, kicked, and it’s easy to catch. Some say that a hacky sack provided more of a challenge. But the beauty of the beach ball is that it can be played at all different levels, from simple to advanced. As you can see, a beach ball s far superior to a hacky sack.