This activity supports Common Core in English Language Arts — CCR Anchor Standards for Reading – CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.R.9. Inspired by the work of Kelly Gallagher.
Grade level: Appropriate for grades 4-12 with teacher modifications
Duration: One class period
- Use Recollection Wisconsin to find a variety of genres that are topically or thematically related. To find examples of genre writing through Recollection Wisconsin:
- Explore our online exhibit “Wisconsin Memoirs.”
- In the search box, try terms such as poem, correspondence, diary or newsletter.
- Check out the following digital collections:
- Wisconsin Pioneer Experience (letters and diaries)
- Wisconsin Goes to War: Our Civil War Experience (letters and diaries)
- Wisconsin County Histories (informative writing)
- Wisconsin Blue Books (informative writing)
- Then have students compare and contrast the means by which the texts convey their message. Ask students:
- Does the meaning change with different genres (i.e. photograph versus poem)?
- Is one genre more powerful or important than another?
- What genre is the most effective for communicating about certain topics or issues?
