Summarize Nonfiction Texts Graphic Organizer Templates

Use these simple graphic organizers when summarizing a piece of nonfiction text for the main idea and its supporting detail. Printing this template and putting it in a clear plastic sleeve means your students can use a whiteboard maker and use the template repeatedly.

The following templates are included:

• Summarizing a Text – Main Idea and four bits of detail + a spot to put a summary
• Summarizing Nonfiction texts – before, during, and after the text has been written
• Summarize It! Worksheet with a checklist for a summary
• Nonfiction Summary – a spot for the main idea, supporting details, and summary
• Ice-cream-themed summary
• House-themed summary

Differentiation: with ten different graphic organizers to choose between, you can pick the more simple layout or a more detailed approach depending on the knowledge level of your students. 

Why Use a Graphic Organizer

Using a graphic organizer is an effective instructional strategy that can greatly benefit children in numerous ways.

Firstly, graphic organizers help students visually organize their thoughts and ideas, providing a clear structure for their thinking process. This visual representation enhances their understanding of concepts, promotes critical thinking, and fosters meaningful connections between different pieces of information.

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Use the drop-down menu to choose between the PDF and editable Google Slide versions of this resource.

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter collaborator.