Textbook Reflections 11-End

Ch.11 "Non-fiction"- After reading the chapter on non-fiction, I definitely agree that, first, nonfiction is not fiction, and as Robert Small defined it can only be defined as what it is not. Additionally, non-fiction is just that since it encompasses so much such as narrative, expository, which also includes biographies, autobiographies, as well as memoirs.  Thankfully, there are reader's guides to help guide students to some of the best nonfiction books out there. Some takeaways from this chapter were how to evaluate non fiction with criteria such as: what are the qualifications of the author, are the facts accurate, what is the purpose and scope of the book, how does the organization of the book assist readers, and what role do the visuals play? The set of questions are definitely a set of great tools and will be helpful in assessing the students' learning.

Ch. 12 "Fantasy and Science Fiction"- After reading up on this chapter. I learned that anything that violates the laws of physical reality falls into the genre of fantasy fiction. Additionally, any science fiction falls into fantasy as a subgenre; however, keeping in mind not all fantasy is science fiction. Some criteria for evaluating science fiction includes: that characters must behave in consistent and believable ways, there must still be rules for this fantasty world, authors must assist in the willingness suspension of disbelief, as well as keeping in mind that all themes must contain universal truths. It is also comforting to know that there is also a Reader's Guide for Science Fiction published by wonderful Dr. Perry.

Ch.13 "Graphic Novels"- Again, graphic novels are not a genre but rather a form/format. Graphic novels can be based on history, fiction, nonfiction, as well as all other subgenres. Graphic novels are extensions of a logical of the comic books. The main difference between a graphic novel and all others is that they are longer than picture books and illustrated books and have more of an elaborate narrative  than all other illustrated books. Their illustrations are also an integral part of the story.Some graphic novels may also contain literary elements. As graphic novels continue to grow in popularity, it is important to teach readers how to read them and not just assume that they are easy to follow. Some important elements in graphic novels are color, a "line' is also an important element  and important component of the art which can imply different things, speech balloons which contain text and dialogue, composition, frame, white space, media and technique.

Ch.14 "Peck's Questions" is definitely a great tool for any teacher to use when assessing students' comprehension. Not only, does it check for their understanding but also allows them the opportunity to think outside of the box, think critically beyond the current scenario, situation, or original plot. An original question that I had never seen asked is "What would the story be like if the main character were an opposite sex?" This is definitely a tool that I will be using in the classroom/library in order to take my students to another level of thinking.

** The list of m.s. authors is definitely a handy one.