Using reference materials - English language arts - CareerStart lessons: Grade six

Learning outcomes

Students will explore reference materials for information and evaluate their findings.

Student handouts:
- Copy of classified advertisements (In lieu of the handout provided, you may use the classified section of a newspaper.)
- “Classified Occupation Chart”
Enlarged classified advertisement copied as a transparency
Pencil
Overhead projector
Overhead pen

Approximately 70 minutes
Homework time may be needed.

Brainstorm job possibilities with students and discuss where people might search for a job. Examples may include word of mouth, internet, and the newspaper. The teacher may discuss previous jobs she has held. (10 minutes)
Guided practice: Using the enlarged classified advertisement made into a transparency, introduce the topics on the “Classified Occupation Chart” to ensure student understanding. (Topics: type of occupation, education needed, previous job experience, salary, and job requirements.) Model how to complete the chart. (10 minutes)
Independent practice: Instruct students to pick any seven jobs from the classified advertisements worksheet. Have students complete the “Classified Occupation Chart” individually. Advise students that some of the requested information may not be provided in these ads. (30 minutes)
Have students respond to the evaluative essay question at the bottom of the “Classified Occupation Chart.” This may be completed for homework. (10 minutes)
Have students read their essays aloud. Conduct a class discussion of job opportunities available. (10 minutes)
For extra credit, allow students to do research at home to find the missing information to fill in the “Classified Occupation Chart,” or have students make their own occupational chart about their parents’ jobs.

Goal 2: The learner will explore and analyze information from a variety of sources.
- Objective 2.01: Explore informational materials that are read, heard, and/or viewed by:
  - monitoring comprehension for understand of what is read, heard, and/or viewed.
  - studying the characteristics of informational works.
  - restating and summarizing information.
  - determining the importance and accuracy of information.
  - making connections between works, self and related topics/information.
  - comparing and/or contrasting information.
  - drawing inferences and/or conclusions.
  - generating questions.