CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.2a

ELA6th GradeText Types and Purposes

The Standard

Introduce a topic; organize ideas, concepts, and information, using strategies such as definition, classification, comparison/contrast, and cause/effect; include formatting (e.g., headings), graphics (e.g., charts, tables), and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.

Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts

What This Standard Means

Students need to introduce an informational topic clearly, then organize facts so a reader can follow the thinking. They should choose a structure that fits the topic, such as definition, groups, similarities and differences, or causes and effects. They also need to use headings, charts, tables, images, or slides when those tools help the reader understand.

Mastery looks like a piece that has a clear opening, logical sections, useful labels, and added visuals that explain rather than decorate. Students often get stuck by listing facts with no plan, using weak headings like “Stuff,” or adding pictures that do not teach anything.

Ways to Teach It

Have students sort fact cards about volcanoes into definition, types, causes, and effects, then turn each pile into a headed section.
Give the prompt, “Which text structure best fits explaining school lunches, and why?” and have students defend their choice in writing.
Show a short draft with missing headings and one random image, then ask students to revise the organization in five minutes.
Bring in a news infographic and have students identify how its headings, chart, and image help explain the topic.