How to Write Non-Fiction for Fifth and Sixth Graders

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Creating non-fiction texts for students in the 5th and 6th grade can be a rewarding and engaging process. It can also be very challenging. Students at this age are moving into more complex topics and skill levels, but are still new to the practice of reading. Using non-fictional texts are a great way to help with this segue.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Choose subjects that will interest students. Vary them from science, history, biography to nature. Current events are great topic areas for this age group, as they encourage high-level thinking.

Step2

Create an outline based on the topic. Some subjects lend themselves to non-linear movement like flashbacks, while others require a chronological telling. Many students at these grade levels can handle more complex story-telling.

Step3

Use sentences up to twelve words long. Use commas and other punctuation, but keep the sentence structure relatively simple. Too many commas and semicolons will be confusing.

Step4

Use multi-syllabic words. Students in these grades have a more developed vocabulary and can handle words with prefixes and suffixes, gerunds and other complexity. Keep it within range, however, of basic English language.

Step5

Vary sentence and paragraph length. Use these to support the plot and flow of the text and to keep the student interested.

Tips & Warnings

Instructional materials can be more complex at this level. Focus on subjects that students can see using in their own lives, like building go-carts or tree-houses.
Avoid controversial topics like race or religion, unless you are certain you can handle it in an objective, respectful manner. Likewise, avoid topics of current wars or catastrophes for this age group.