Multiple Genres: Analyzing Informational Text Features Such As Introductions And References For Background Information (TEKS.ELA.6.8.D.ii)
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Texas 6th Grade ELA › Multiple Genres: Analyzing Informational Text Features Such As Introductions And References For Background Information (TEKS.ELA.6.8.D.ii)
In this preface, I share how this book began as a question during a summer volunteer project. Each chapter grew from interviews with community gardeners, museum guides, and students who turned curiosity into action. Before you begin, know that the pages ahead focus on practical strategies and real stories, not just facts. I explain why certain topics were chosen and how the examples were verified. My goal is to prepare you for the themes, structure, and vocabulary you will meet throughout the book.
What is the purpose of this feature?
background
source citation
acknowledgments
unrelated
Explanation
It explains the book's origins, focus, and how to use the text—providing background to prepare the reader. Extension: Draft 2 sentences of an acknowledgments section for a classroom project. Scaffold: Start with "I would like to thank…". Enrichment: Compare how academic texts use introductions to outline research goals while popular texts use introductions to hook readers with stories.
Alvarez, R. (2018). Rivers and Cities: A Community Study. Harbor Press. Chen, L., & Patel, S. (2020). Water Use and Conservation. Journal of Neighborhood Science, 12(3), 45–59. Diaz, M. (2017). Urban Gardens and Youth Leadership. Greenways Quarterly, 5(2), 10–18. Lee, J. (2019). Mapping Local History. In K. Brooks (Ed.), Place-Based Learning (pp. 75–98). Sunrise Publishing. Nguyen, T. (2021). Community Interviews: Methods for Beginners. Fieldwork Review, 8(1), 22–34. https://example.org/methods Ortiz, P., & Kim, Y. (2016). Listening to Elders: Oral Histories. Bridge Street Press.
What is the purpose of this feature?
background
source citation
acknowledgments
unrelated
Explanation
This is a references list that cites sources used or consulted in the text—its purpose is source citation. Extension: Draft 2 sentences of an acknowledgments section for a classroom project. Scaffold: Start with "I would like to thank…". Enrichment: Compare how academic texts use introductions to state research questions and methods, while popular texts use introductions to tell an engaging story or pose a big question.
This preface is simply a note of thanks. Many people made this project possible: the school librarian who guided my research, classmates who tested early drafts, and family members who encouraged me to keep revising. I also appreciate the after-school club leaders who shared their meeting space and snacks. Their patience and advice strengthened every chapter. While the main text tells the story, this page is here to recognize the time, generosity, and support that helped bring the book into the world.
What is the purpose of this feature?
background
source citation
acknowledgments
unrelated
Explanation
The passage thanks people who supported the work, which is the purpose of an acknowledgments feature. Extension: Draft 2 sentences of an acknowledgments section for a classroom project. Scaffold: Start with "I would like to thank…". Enrichment: Compare how academic introductions preview methods and literature, while popular introductions highlight personal anecdotes and relatable hooks.
Note on this edition: The text has been retypeset for clearer spacing, and illustrations were resized to print evenly on standard paper. Page numbers now match the classroom workbook, and section breaks were adjusted to avoid awkward line endings. A recycled paper stock is used in this run, which may slightly change the shade of the pages. These production updates do not alter the chapters themselves. This notice appears in the front matter to inform readers about design and printing choices.
What is the purpose of this feature?
background
source citation
acknowledgments
unrelated
Explanation
This front-matter note discusses design and printing, not the book's content, sources, or helpers, so its purpose is unrelated to the main text. Extension: Draft 2 sentences of an acknowledgments section for a classroom project. Scaffold: Start with "I would like to thank…". Enrichment: Compare how academic introductions define scope and significance, while popular introductions focus on reader interest and accessibility.