Nonfiction Signposts |
Look below for a list every nonfiction signpost. Included are definitions, questions to ask yourself and what those answers might lead to. There are also videos that explain the signpost. |
- Contrast and Contradictions -
Definition:
When the author presents something that contrasts or contradicts what the reader is likely to know, think or have experienced, or shows a difference between two or more situations, events or perspectives
When the author presents something that contrasts or contradicts what the reader is likely to know, think or have experienced, or shows a difference between two or more situations, events or perspectives
When you’re reading and the author shows you a difference between what you know and what is happening in the text, OR
a difference in the text. |
Question to Ask Yourself:“What is the difference and why does it matter?”
What it answers: The answer will help you see details that show you the main idea, compare and contrast, understand the author’s purpose, infer, make a generalization, or notice cause and effect. |
- Extreme or Absolute Language -
Definition:
When the author uses language that leaves no doubt about a situation or event that exaggerates or overstates a case.
When the author uses language that leaves no doubt about a situation or event that exaggerates or overstates a case.
When you’re reading and you notice the author uses language that leaves no doubt, exaggerates, or pushes to the limit.
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Question to Ask Yourself:“Why did the author say it like that?”
What it answers: The answer will tell you something about the author’s point-of-view and purpose, or you might realize the author is exaggerating to make you think a certain way. |
- Numbers and Stats -
Definition:
When the author uses number or words that show amounts or statistical information to show comparisons in order to prove a point or help create an image
When the author uses number or words that show amounts or statistical information to show comparisons in order to prove a point or help create an image
When you are reading and notice specific numbers, number words, and/or amounts.
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Question to Ask Yourself: “Why did the author use the numbers or amounts?”
What it answers: The answer might help you come to a conclusion, make a comparison, see details, make an inference, find facts, or recognize evidence. |
- Quoted Words -
Definition:
When the author quotes others, directly, with what we call a "Voice of Authority" or "Personal Perspective," or citing others’ words
When the author quotes others, directly, with what we call a "Voice of Authority" or "Personal Perspective," or citing others’ words
When you are reading and notice quotes and in particular, quotes or citations by "voices of authority" or having great experience in this area.
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Question to Ask Yourself:“Why did the author quote or cite this person?"
What it answers: The answer will help you think about the author’s point-of-view, purpose, bias, or conclusion. These words may also give perspectives, facts and opinions, or generalizations. |
- Word Gaps -
Definition:
When the author author uses words or phrases students recognize they don’t know
When the author author uses words or phrases students recognize they don’t know
When you are reading and notice the author using a word or phrase that you do not know or are not familiar with.
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Question to Ask Yourself:
“Do I know this word from somewhere else?" "Does this seem like technical talk for experts about this topic?" "Can I find clues in the sentence to help me understand this word/phrase?" What it answers: The answer will help you decide if you need to look the word up, or keep reading for more information. |