Functional Text

7th GradeLanguage Arts

Performance Objective

• Interpret details from a variety of functional text (e.g., warranties, product information, technical manuals, instructional manuals, consumer safety publications) for a variety of specific purposes (e.g., to follow directions, to solve problems, to perform procedures, to answer questions).

Learning Objective

• I can use functional text for a specific purpose.

Essential Questions

1. What are the purposes of functional text?

2. How can the information from functional text be used?

Definition

• Functional Text – printed material that is specifically

intended to convey information (e.g., instructions, technical manuals, labels, signs, recipes)

Tips for Reading Functional Text

1. Numbered steps in a text tell you, “First do this. Next, do that.”

2. Headings call out, “Look here! This is a new topic you’re about to meet.”

3. Boldface or italic words or phrases alert you, “This is an important word or definition. Pay attention!”

Tips for Reading Functional Text

4. Graphics, such as maps, charts, graphs, and illustrations, also tell you, “Step right up! Important information can be found here.”

5. Phrases, such as on the other hand, by comparison, by contrast, or still others believe, often introduce the opposite of what’s come before. The information may conflict with what you’ve already read.

Tips for Reading Functional Text

6. Phrases and words such as consequently, as a result, this results, or therefore explain the effects of something.

7. Numbered bullets - Look at information that is numbered. It will tell you the order of procedures or directions.

Examples of Functional Text

• Example 1• Example 2• Example 3

Types of Functional Text

Using Functional Text

Document

Technical Directions

Document

Performance Objective

• Determine what information (e.g., steps in directions, legend, supplies needed, illustrations, diagram, sequence) is missing in functional text.

Learning Objective

• I can determine what information is missing in functional text.

Essential Questions

1. What is the process to determine missing information in functional text?

2. How can analyzing the structure of functional text help you determine what information is missing?

Missing Functional Text Map Question

1

Document

Missing Functional Text

Map Question 2

Document

Missing Functional Text

Worksheet

Document

Cruise Itinerary

Document