Details and Share
Author’s Purpose
Students will have the opportunity to delve into the world of "Author's Purpose" with this engaging lesson. This lesson is aligned with 2nd grade standards and expectations.
Grade Level: 2 - 4th
Grade Level: 2 - 4th Subject:
Subject: Length of Time: 40-50 Minutes
Length of Time: 40-50 MinutesSponsored School(s)
Common Core Alignment
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.2.6 - Identify the main purpose of a text, including what the author wants to answer, explain, or describe.
Objectives & Outcomes
After a lesson on author’s purpose, students will be able to determine the author’s message in the story “Frog and Toad Are Friends”.
Students will examine the importance of focusing on the author’s purpose. Is it necessary to think about the author’s purpose? Student will construct a response and defend their argument.
Materials Needed
- Text: “Frog and Toad are Friends" by Arnold Lobel or any other text teacher wants to use - Get it here
- “Author's Purpose” graphic organizer (attached)
- Markers
- Post-its
- Popular song (age appropriate)
Procedure
Opening to Lesson
- Teacher will gain students' attention by playing a familiar/popular song (age appropriate).
- Teacher can ask students to listen to the lyrics.
- Students will then talk in groups to try to figure out the meaning/main idea of the song.
Body of Lesson
- As a class, read “Frog and Toad are Friends” by Arnold Lobel.
- In a circle on the rug, review the meaning of “author’s message”.
- Students will brainstorm with the person next to them in order to create an answer to the following question: “Why do you think we need to spend time thinking about the author’s purpose?”
- Students will share their responses.
Guided/Independent Practice
- Students will work in groups to fill out the graphic organizer chart.
- Why did the author write this story?How do you know?
- Each group will present their findings to the rest of the class.
Closing
- Each student will receive one post-it.
- On the post-it, students will work independently to answer the following question: “Why do you think it is important to think about the author’s purpose?”
- At the end of the lesson, students will stick their post-its to the board or a pre-made chart. The chart can simply be made from butcher paper.
Assessment & Evaluation
The graphic organizer can be used as informal or formal assessment. Also, the post-it notes can be a great way to check for understanding and guide further instruction.
Modification & Differentiation
Teacher can take anecdotal notes during the group work and presentation stages in order to monitor students’ conceptual understanding. Teacher can work with students who struggle in small groups.
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