Fiction and Nonfiction

This engaging curriculum for fourth graders encourages critical literacy through fiction and nonfiction units, fostering creativity and analytical skills in students.

The Fiction and Nonfiction curriculum, crafted by the University of Virginia's National Research Center on the Gifted and Talented, presents an evidence-based teaching model that focuses on Challenge Leading to Engagement, Achievement, and Results. This curriculum is designed specifically for gifted students in the fourth grade, integrating critical literacy skills through engaging units that explore both fiction and nonfiction genres.

In the fiction unit, students will delve into short stories, analyzing various narrative techniques and elements. They will also have the opportunity to create their own short stories, encouraging creativity alongside analytical skills. This hands-on approach enables students to appreciate storytelling while enhancing their writing abilities.

The nonfiction unit shifts focus to the exploration of nonfiction texts, including creative nonfiction. Students will examine how authors employ similar devices in both genres to convey their messages. Through reading a variety of texts, they will develop skills to identify bias and understand cultural reflections within literature. The Fiction and Nonfiction curriculum aims to foster a deeper understanding of diverse content, preparing students to engage critically with the world around them.