In related work, Duke and Pearson (2002) reported the results of studies
addressing use of informational text to build reading comprehension (see also Maniates & Pearson, 2008; Pearson & Fielding, 1995).
Where, she wondered, «is the research to support: close reading, increased Lexile levels,
the use of informational texts, and other questionable practices in the primary grades?»
These studies addressed an important instructional deficiency identified in earlier work in which Duke (2000a) reported a scarcity in
the use of informational texts at the primary levels.
It has been at least a decade since the call was raised to increase
the use of informational text as part of reading instruction.
Sharing the settings of stories in map form is one way English teachers can increase
the use of informational texts in their literature - based classrooms.
Vermont is encouraged to strengthen its teacher preparation requirements and ensure that all candidates who teach the elementary grades have the ability to address
the use of informational texts as well as to incorporate complex informational texts into classroom instruction.
Informational Texts: The Praxis II Early Childhood Education (5025) test addresses both
the use of informational texts and text complexity.