Although common elements can be found across genres, it is important for students to know the characteristics, structures, and purposes specific to a particular genre. This will allow students to better engage with and draw meaning from the text. For example, students should know that when they read a literary text, the language can be highly figurative. Students need to make inferences to determine the implied meaning of the words. If students do not understand this is a characteristic of literature, they will likely not be able to determine the author’s purpose or message because the students would be reading the words only for their literal meaning.

text that is widely acknowledged for its outstanding and enduring qualities

a text that is set near the present time, typically post-World War II

texts that represent regional, economic, social, and ethnic differences through subject matter and/or characters

the type or class of a work, usually categorized by form, technique, or content Literary genres include tragedy, comedy, poetry, novel, short story, creative/literary nonfiction, etc. and the sub genres of fantasy, science fiction, mystery, horror, satire, etc.; nonfiction genres include biography, essay, memoir, historical text, scientific text, academic reporting, etc.

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.

stories derived from the oldest records of oral and written narratives throughout history (e.g., tales, legends, fairytales, fables, myths, and religious texts)