Text Features

Overview

Good readers can locate information in text. They can extract facts using context clues to answer questions or to help them understand unfamiliar words. Understanding how to read text features such as charts, graphs, legends, sidebars, visuals, etc. is an important reading comprehension skill. Learning the form and function of text features increases student engagement and comprehension, especially with non-fiction text.

Graphic Organizers

Instructional Strategies

Before reading, draw the students’ attention to the different text features, including the glossary, index, table of contents, image captions, headings, bold text, or other pertinent aspects. Model and have students refer to these features as often as possible. Ask questions of students, such as: "Where might I find definitions of bolded words?" "In what section might I find a particular piece of information?" 

Use different text features to help students "chunk" their reading into sections. For example, assign small groups to read different passages separated by text features. Have students practice using context clues to extract information from texts. 

Structure graphic organizers or note taking templates so that they follow the features of the text being studied.