Unit Plan 33 (Grade 4 ELA): Summarizing & Synthesizing Information
Grade 4 unit on main idea, key details, concise summaries, and cross-text synthesis using evidence lines/source tags; includes lessons, organizers, and assessments.
Focus: Condensing key ideas; cross-text connections; evidence lines
Grade Level: 4
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Informational, Writing)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This week, students become information distillers. They’ll learn to separate topic from main idea, pick key details that matter, and write concise summaries in their own words. Then they’ll move beyond one text to synthesize across sources—stating what two texts both show, how they differ, and what new understanding emerges—supported by evidence lines (short, labeled quotes/paraphrases). By Friday, each learner will produce a clear summary and a short, evidence-based synthesis that integrates information from two texts.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Determine main idea and select key details; write objective summaries (RI.4.2).
- Integrate information from two texts on the same topic; explain overlap and differences (RI.4.9).
- Cite and explain evidence from texts in short written responses; use source tags (Text A/B) (W.4.9).
- Paraphrase rather than copy; maintain a neutral, concise tone.
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 4
- RI.4.2, RI.4.9, W.4.9
Success Criteria — student language
- I can say the main idea and 3 key details that support it.
- I can write a 3–5 sentence summary in my own words without opinions.
- I can state what both texts say, how they differ, and write a synthesis statement.
- I can include evidence lines (A/B) and explain how they prove my point.