Minds On

The 5 W’s: Who, what, when, where and why (and how)

Let’s review the 5 W’s!

Now that Zoey has helped us review the 5 W’s, let’s consider how we can use the Five W's to examine a story.

Select a story of your choice and identify the Five W's and How.

Copy the 5 W’s and How template into your notebook or use the following fillable and printable document.

Press the ‘Activity’ button to access 5 W’s and How. 

Activity(Open PDF in a new window)

Consider

You probably noticed the Five W's and How helped you to identify the elements of your story. Each element of a story contributes to our understanding the story. Explain which story element best helps you understand a story.

If possible, share your ideas with a partner.

Action

How story elements help us understand what we read

Select a story of your choice and consider how each story element supports your understanding of the story.

Story elements review

People, animals or creatures in a story.

When and where the story takes place.

The important events or actions that make up a story (beginning, middle, and end).

A challenge that the character(s) try to overcome.

How the problem or challenge was solved.

Complete the Story Elements Template in your notebook or using the following fillable and printable document.

Grade 4 Language Reading – Story Elements Template

Press the Activity button to access Story Elements Template.

Activity (Open PDF in a new tab)

Consolidation

Draw your own conclusions

Choose 1 or 2 of the following questions to consider:

  • How does the author use the setting to establish the mood of the text? Is it effective?
  • How does the author use the opening of the story to set the stage for the rest of the book? How might the author use a different opening?
  • Do you agree with the decisions made by the main character in this story?
  • Which character’s voice/opinion is missing from the story and why might it have been left out?
  • Would you choose a different solution to the problem? Explain how your solution would improve the story.

Record your responses using a method of your choice.

Reflection

As you read through these descriptions, which sentence best describes how you are feeling about your understanding of this learning activity? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

I feel...

Now, record your ideas using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.