Classical texts refer to texts that are widely acknowledged for their outstanding and enduring qualities. Students should identify and evaluate the traits that define a classical work of literature such as artistic quality, relevance to multiple generations, or universal appeal. Students are expected to understand that classical texts stand the test of time and are connected to many aspects of present life. Due to the relative complexity of the genre, young readers are often introduced to classical texts through graphic novel versions, simplified editions, or movie adaptations.

Contemporary texts are defined as literature written after World War II, orliterature written in the present time about the present time. Students are expected to recognize and analyze how this type of literature reflects the current events, problems, or viewpoints of modern societies.

Students should engage with written works that represent a range of regional, economic, social, and ethnic experiences as well as a range of literary genres and formats (e.g., chapter books, scripts, and graphic novels). Students are expected to recognize that regardless of the type, context in which they were written, or time/location they represent, stories share common elements that can be presented in a variety of ways.

As students become more proficient readers, the texts they engage with and draw meaning from should become more complex in structure, language, and/or content. Within and across grade levels, students are expected to be exposed to challenging texts that allow them the opportunity to practice and master new skills.

Students are expected to recognize and analyze the basic components of most literary works such as setting, plot, characterization, point of view, and theme. Students should be able to differentiate among these components, evaluate their function in a literary text, and determine how the components interact with each other. Literary elements represent the framework of literary works such as stories (either true or fictitious), fables, folktales, drama, and poetry.

Traditional stories derive from the oldest records of oral and written narratives throughout history (e.g., folktales, legends, fairytales, fables, and myths). Students are expected to acknowledge the nature and origin of traditional texts as well as recognize that they serve to explain a natural phenomenon and provide moral teachings. Fables are one example of traditional texts. A fable is typically a short story that uses morals intended to educate the reader. Students analyze how this type of literature explains actions and consequences and promotes a timeless, practical moral teaching (e.g., "Treat others as you want to be treated").