Different Genres of Literature


ELAR-Grade-8 Literary Genres Different Genres of Literature
Students begin by sharing kinds of stories they have enjoyed. Then, they learn seven major genres of fiction and identify passages exemplifying each. Next, they form small groups to report on specific works in assigned genres. Finally, they elaborate on what genre of fiction they would most like to write.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

1:1 Devices
Teacher Pack

The Pack contains associated resources for the learning experience, typically in the form of articles and videos. There is a teacher Pack (with only teacher information) and a student Pack (which contains only student information). As a teacher, you can toggle between both to see everything.

Here are the teacher pack items for Different Genres of Literature:

Preview - Scene 1
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Engage


Overview

In this experience, students begin by sharing kinds of stories they have enjoyed. Then, they learn six major genres of fiction and identify passages exemplifying each. Next, they form small groups to report on specific works in assigned genres. Finally, they elaborate on what genre of fiction they would most like to write.

Students will work collaboratively in small groups in scene 3.

Objectives

  • Identify characteristics of realistic and historical fiction.
  • Identify characteristics of adventure stories and mysteries.
  • Identify characteristics of myths and humor.

Duration

Two class periods.

Vocabulary Words Used in Passage 1

  • reign: period of a king’s or queen’s rule
  • yew: a kind of evergreen tree

Vocabulary Words Used in Passage 2

  • elude: escape notice
  • expiration: a coming to an end at a certain time; or outward breath
  • deemed: considered
  • franc: former French unit of money

Vocabulary Words Used in Passage 4

  • strapping: tall and muscular
  • vacillating: wavering, unable to decide

Vocabulary Words Used in Passage 5

  • adequate: satisfactory
  • artillery: heavy guns, such as cannon 


There are many different kinds of stories. Some are told aloud, and some are written down. Some are true stories. Some are stories about what life was like in the past. In this experience, you’ll learn to identify some of the main types of stories.

Objectives

  • Identify characteristics of realistic and historical fiction.
  • Identify characteristics of adventure stories and mysteries.
  • Identify characteristics of myths and humor.


Odin the Wanderer, from Norse mythology

Odin the Wanderer from Norse mythology


In this experience, you will explore many different types of text. Let’s try it and see if you can guess the type for these three-sentence plot summaries:


Deep under the ocean, a new creature appears. With long arms and glowing eyes, the scientists are fascinated. But suddenly, strange events start happening.

This is an example of:

A) humor
B) realistic fiction
C) historical fiction
D) science fiction

The train glides quietly through the countryside at night. Not a sound to be heard, until suddenly, a loud shriek! But what could have happened?

This is an example of:

A) mystery
B) humor
C) historical fiction
D) autobiography

You’ve probably already read or heard about examples of these different genres.


What is your favorite story? What type of story do you think this is?

Post your answer

Briefly discuss students’ posts. Give students a chance to mention additional types of stories if they know any, such as science fiction and fantasy. Use genre words such as realistic fiction and science fiction as opportunities arise.

Use this opportunity to have ELL students express their opinions. They can discuss a favorite story, even if they read it in their native language.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

End of Preview
The Complete List of Learning Experiences in Literary Genres Unit.
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