In 2023, the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) published its “Position Statement on the Role of Nonfiction Literature (K–12)“. In it, the organization explains that while nonfiction is a gateway to literacy and a favorite genre for children, it has been traditionally underrepresented in classrooms. Highlighting the genre’s role in addressing scientific knowledge, historical silences, contemporary issues, and global injustice, NCTE asserts that “in the urgency of this moment, nonfiction for young people has never been more vibrant or more vital.”
For early elementary-aged students, the diverse features and formats of nonfiction literature provide an opportunity to build knowledge and examine the world even before they can read text. In uppergrade elementary classes, nonfiction invites readers to explore interests and genres. Teachers can choose any combination of books and strategies to use with whole-class, small-group, or independent reading and writing instruction. The guide’s activities encourage students to explore the engaging world of nonfiction while cultivating skills in critical, visual, and informational literacy.
Download the free guides for elementary, middle, and high school.
